When to worry about headache with insomnia

Poor sleep can increase muscle tension, change pain sensitivity, and leave you dehydrated or reliant on caffeine. A tension-type headache may feel like pressure around the head. Headache that repeatedly appears after a night of poor sleep may improve as sleep becomes more regular, although it should not be assumed to be caused by insomnia without considering other explanations.

Drink water, eat regularly, and keep caffeine earlier in the day. Rest in a quiet, dim room if light or noise worsens the pain. Keep a brief diary of sleep, headache timing, medicines, caffeine, and triggers. A clinician can review frequent headaches, headaches that are changing, or insomnia that persists and affects daytime function.

Call emergency services for a sudden, explosive headache, weakness or numbness on one side, trouble speaking, fainting, a seizure, new confusion, or loss of vision. Seek prompt medical advice for fever with a stiff neck, repeated vomiting, a headache after a head injury, or a new headache during pregnancy. Arrange a clinical review if headaches wake you repeatedly, are becoming more frequent, or require pain medicine often.

Could another sleep, medication, vision, blood-pressure, or headache problem be contributing? What pattern should I record? Which treatment is suitable if insomnia and headache continue together?