What should you know about a pounding headache?

Pulsing pain may occur with migraine, especially when light, sound, movement, nausea or visual changes are also present. A blocked or runny nose can occur with Allergic Rhinitis, Common Cold or Chronic Sinusitis. Fever and body aches may point towards an infection such as COVID-19; travel or mosquito exposure with fever needs medical advice about Dengue Fever. Dehydration and Heat Exhaustion can cause headache with thirst, weakness or dizziness. Anxiety can tighten scalp and neck muscles and amplify pain, but a new or unusual headache should still be considered on its own features.

Rest in a quiet, dim room and drink fluids gradually. Eat if you have missed meals, reduce screen glare and use a cool cloth if that feels soothing. Keep track of onset, location, associated symptoms and possible triggers. Use only pain medicine that is suitable for you and follow its label; frequent use can itself contribute to recurring headaches. Arrange clinical advice when headaches keep returning, change pattern or are not responding to usual measures.

Seek emergency care for a headache that reaches maximum intensity suddenly, follows a head injury, or occurs with weakness, confusion, fainting, seizure, stiff neck, high fever, vision loss or trouble speaking. Urgent review is also needed for a new headache during pregnancy, with severe eye pain, or when vomiting prevents fluids. Fever with a spreading rash or marked drowsiness should not be watched at home.

Does my symptom pattern fit migraine or another cause? Which pain relievers are safe with my medicines and health conditions? Should I record triggers or check for infection, dehydration or heat illness? What change would require urgent help?