Throbbing headache: possible causes and care

Pulsing pain may occur with migraine, especially with light sensitivity, nausea, movement sensitivity, or visual changes. A blocked nose or facial pressure may accompany Allergic Rhinitis, Chronic Sinusitis, or a Common Cold. Fever and body aches can occur with COVID-19 or Dengue Fever. Thirst, dark urine, dizziness, heat exposure, or heavy sweating can point toward Dehydration or Heat Exhaustion. Stress and muscle tension may also contribute. These clues do not establish a diagnosis.

Drink fluids if you can keep them down, rest somewhere cool and quiet, and reduce bright light or noise if they worsen the pain. Eat regularly if missed meals may be involved. Record timing, location, severity, sleep, food, heat, medicines, fever, vision, and nausea. Use medicines only as directed on the label or by a clinician. Arrange review when headaches recur, interfere with activities, or change.

Call emergency services for sudden severe headache, new weakness, numbness, trouble speaking, confusion, seizure, fainting, vision loss, or a stiff neck with fever. Seek prompt care for persistent vomiting, severe dehydration, headache after injury, or a new headache during pregnancy. Fever with rash, unusual bleeding, or severe muscle pain also needs urgent assessment, especially after travel or mosquito exposure.

Ask what your associated symptoms suggest, whether examination or testing is needed, which relief options suit you, and how often medicine can be used. Share your headache diary and complete medicine list.