Stabbing headache: what to know

Sharp head pain can occur with a common cold, allergic rhinitis, sinus symptoms, dehydration, heat exhaustion, anxiety or migraine-type headaches. A headache itself is a symptom, not a diagnosis. A clinician will consider where it hurts, how quickly it began, how long each episode lasts, and whether light, movement, fever, congestion, vomiting or visual symptoms are present.

Keep a short record of triggers, sleep, fluids, heat exposure, medicines and any recent infection. This can help separate a recurring benign pattern from a new problem that needs examination.

Move to a quiet, cool place, drink fluids if you can do so safely, eat if you have missed a meal, and rest your eyes from bright screens. Take familiar over-the-counter pain relief only if it is suitable for you and follow the label. Arrange a medical review for a new, persistent, recurrent or changing headache.

Seek emergency help for a sudden severe headache, headache after a significant head injury, weakness or numbness on one side, trouble speaking, seizure, fainting, confusion, severe neck stiffness, or new vision loss. Get prompt assessment for headache with high fever, repeated vomiting, a spreading rash, pregnancy, or marked dehydration.

Ask what type of headache the pattern suggests, whether your blood pressure or neurological examination needs checking, which pain relief is appropriate, and which symptoms should send you to emergency care.