What should you know about splitting headache?

Head pain may feel throbbing, pressing, stabbing or concentrated around the forehead, temples or behind the eyes. A cold, allergic rhinitis, sinus inflammation, heat exhaustion, dehydration, anxiety, poor sleep or a migraine pattern can contribute. Fever, blocked or runny nose, vomiting, sensitivity to light, neck stiffness or body aches help a clinician narrow the possibilities. A headache is a symptom, so it does not by itself identify one condition.

Record when it started, where it is, how quickly it reached its peak, what you had eaten and drunk, and any medicines already taken. This information is more useful than describing the pain as simply severe.

Rest in a quiet, cool place and sip fluids if you can keep them down. Reduce bright light and screen exposure, and avoid alcohol. Use only a pain medicine that is suitable for you and follow its label; do not combine products that contain the same ingredient. If headaches recur, a clinician can assess triggers and discuss a safer plan rather than relying on frequent self-treatment.

Get emergency help for a sudden explosive headache, new weakness or numbness, trouble speaking, fainting, confusion, a seizure, severe neck stiffness, repeated vomiting, vision loss, or a headache after a head injury. Seek prompt medical assessment for severe headache with fever, a spreading rash, marked dehydration, or rapidly worsening illness. New or unusual headache during pregnancy or with very high blood pressure also deserves urgent advice.

Ask what pattern your symptoms suggest, whether you need examination or testing, which pain medicines fit your health history, and how to recognise a change that should send you to emergency care.