Headaches are very common. There is a wide variation in the type of pain you could experience with a headache, and how long it may last.
Different types of headache include:
- tension headache
- toxic headache
- migraine
- cluster headache.
Headaches can be triggered by stress, tiredness, hunger, eyestrain, noise or bright light.
Causes of headaches
- The toxic effects of alcohol or other substances
- An infection elsewhere in your body
- Muscle tension
- Inflamed arteries (which cause migraine or cluster headaches).
Most headaches are not a cause for worry, but occasionally they are a symptom of something serious.
Self care
If you know what causes your headaches (eg, alcohol, chocolate, cheese) it’s best to avoid these things if you can.
If you have a headache, drink regular amounts of fluid – especially water – and don’t skip or delay meals (unless you're vomiting). Also, try not to smoke.
If you get a headache, try the following:
- Take painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen
- Lie in a dark, quiet room (and if possible, sleep)
- Alternate warm and cool compresses (for 20 minutes each) on your forehead, the base of your skull or your upper neck
- Get someone to give you a gentle but firm massage to your neck, temples, scalp, back of head and shoulders
- Have a warm, relaxing bath.
When to see your doctor
If you or a family member has a headache, see your doctor if it doesn’t go away after self care, or if it gets worse.
When it's urgent
If a friend or family member has any of the following symptoms, get them along to your doctor or after-hours medical centre quickly:
- Drowsiness, confusion or weakness in their arms or legs
- Difficulty waking up or bright lights hurt their eyes
- A seizure (fit)
- Vomiting
- Loss of vision (they have trouble seeing)
- Neck pain or stiffness.
Call Healthline 0800 611 116 if you are unsure what you should do.