Terrible headache while pregnant: when to get help

Headache may follow sleep disruption, hunger, stress, eye strain, heat or a change in caffeine intake. A throbbing headache with nausea or light sensitivity can resemble migraine. Facial pressure and a blocked nose can occur with rhinitis, sinusitis or a viral illness. Fluid loss may cause headache with thirst, weakness or dizziness. Because pregnancy can also involve blood pressure complications, a new persistent headache needs more than a guess based on how common headaches are.

Sit or lie somewhere quiet and cool. Sip water or an oral rehydration drink if advised, eat a simple snack, and use a cool compress. Avoid driving if you feel faint or your vision is affected. Write down the start time, severity, location, associated symptoms, temperature if available, and any medicine used. Confirm medication choices with your obstetric clinician or pharmacist before taking them.

Seek emergency help for sudden maximal pain, loss of consciousness, seizure, confusion, one-sided weakness, difficulty speaking, severe breathlessness, chest pain, fever with neck stiffness or significant vision loss. Call your maternity service urgently for severe pain that persists, repeated vomiting, new swelling, pain beneath the ribs, or a raised blood pressure reading.

Ask whether you need blood pressure, urine or neurological checks; which symptoms should trigger an immediate call; and which treatment is suitable with your pregnancy stage and medical history.