When should you see a doctor about headache?

Headache can arise from tension in the neck and scalp, migraine, sinus inflammation, disrupted sleep, dehydration, or changes in routine such as jet lag. Some people develop headaches with obstructive sleep apnoea because sleep and breathing are disturbed. The location, speed of onset, duration, associated symptoms, and triggers matter more than the label alone. A new pattern deserves review even when the pain is familiar in quality.

Rest in a quiet place, drink normally, eat if you have missed meals, and note sleep, screen exposure, stress, menstrual timing, medicines, and possible triggers. Follow the label for any over-the-counter pain medicine and avoid taking it repeatedly without advice, since frequent use can sustain headaches. Keep a diary of timing, severity, location, nausea, light sensitivity, and visual symptoms to share with a clinician.

Seek emergency help for a sudden explosive headache, new weakness or numbness, trouble speaking, confusion, seizure, fainting, severe vision change, or a headache after a significant head injury. Urgent assessment is needed for headache with fever and a stiff neck, a new headache during pregnancy, or repeated vomiting. These features can occur with conditions such as meningitis or bleeding and should not wait for a routine appointment.

Ask whether the pattern fits migraine, tension headache, sinusitis, sleep-related headache, or another cause; whether your blood pressure or medicines matter; and which treatment and warning signs apply to you. Bring your headache diary and medicine list.