Pregnant with a terrible headache: what should you know?

Headache can follow dehydration, missed meals, poor sleep, stress, heat, nasal congestion, or a viral illness. Pregnancy-related changes can also contribute. A new or unusually intense headache needs a clinician to consider blood pressure problems and other causes rather than assuming it is routine. Fever, neck stiffness, weakness, confusion, or a rash adds concern.

Stop strenuous activity, rest in a quiet room, drink fluids gradually, and eat a light meal if you have not eaten. Note when the pain began, where it is, how severe it feels, and any associated symptoms. Use only pain medicine that your pregnancy clinician has approved; avoid starting a new product or combining remedies without checking the label and asking a pharmacist or doctor.

Seek urgent medical care now for a sudden thunderclap headache, the worst headache you have had, fainting, seizure, confusion, new weakness or numbness, trouble speaking, severe vision changes, fever with a stiff neck, or severe upper abdominal pain. Contact your maternity team promptly for a persistent headache, repeated vomiting, facial or hand swelling, or a headache with raised blood pressure.

Ask whether your blood pressure and urine need checking, which pain reliever and dose are suitable for your pregnancy, and whether your symptoms could relate to dehydration, sinus disease, or infection. Ask what changes should prompt an emergency visit.