What should you know about sudden onset headache?

Headache may occur with dehydration, heat exhaustion, a common cold, allergic rhinitis, or chronic sinusitis. COVID-19 and dengue fever can present with headache alongside fever, tiredness, body aches, or other illness symptoms. Stress and generalised anxiety disorder may contribute to head pain through muscle tension and changes in breathing, but a new abrupt headache should not automatically be attributed to anxiety. The location, speed of onset, intensity, recent injury, fever, neck symptoms, vision changes, and neurological symptoms help determine urgency.

Stop driving or strenuous activity and rest in a quiet, cool place. Drink fluids if dehydration or heat is possible, and avoid alcohol. Write down the exact time the pain began, how quickly it peaked, where it is located, and what symptoms came with it. Use only a familiar pain reliever as directed on its label, if it is normally safe for you; do not delay urgent care to try home treatment. Avoid taking repeated doses when the cause is unclear.

Call emergency services for a sudden severe headache, weakness or numbness on one side, trouble speaking, confusion, seizure, fainting, new vision loss, severe neck stiffness, or headache after a significant head injury. Seek urgent advice for headache with high fever, repeated vomiting, a spreading rash, severe eye pain, or marked drowsiness. Arrange a prompt appointment for a new pattern, headaches that keep returning, or pain that is steadily worsening.

Does the timing and pattern suggest a primary headache or another cause? Do I need an examination or urgent tests? Which pain medicines are suitable for me? What symptoms should make me call emergency services?