What should you know about prolonged headache?

Headache can accompany a common cold, COVID-19, allergic rhinitis or chronic sinusitis. Dehydration and heat exhaustion can contribute, especially after sweating, vomiting, diarrhoea or spending time in heat. Stress and muscle tension may play a part, and generalised anxiety disorder can be associated with recurring head pain. Dengue fever is another consideration after relevant travel or exposure, particularly when fever and body aches occur. The symptom pattern matters more than the label alone.

Rest in a quiet, comfortable environment, drink fluids, eat regularly and reduce prolonged screen strain. Keep a brief diary of onset, location, severity, sleep, meals, hydration, stress, medicines and associated symptoms. Use pain medicine only as directed and avoid taking it repeatedly without medical advice, because frequent use can sustain headaches. Arrange a review if the pain is persistent, repeatedly returns, changes pattern or interferes with work or sleep.

Seek emergency help for a sudden severe headache, weakness or numbness on one side, trouble speaking, confusion, fainting, seizure, new vision loss, stiff neck, or fever with a rapidly spreading rash. Prompt assessment is also needed after a head injury, during pregnancy, or when headache is accompanied by repeated vomiting or severe dehydration. Do not wait for self-care to work when neurological symptoms appear.

Ask which headache pattern your symptoms resemble, whether your medicines or hydration may contribute, whether an examination or tests are needed, and which warning signs require emergency care. Share your diary and mention recent travel, fever, sinus symptoms, vision changes and pregnancy.