Need emergency help? Call 999 in United Kingdom.

Open local help
MyPHUMy Public Health Unit

Symptom guide

Headache

Almost everyone has had a headache. Headache is the most common form of pain. It's a major reason people miss days at work or school or visit the doctor. The most common type of headache is a tension headache. Tension headaches are due to tight muscles in your shoulders, neck, scalp and jaw. They are often related to stress, depression or anxiety. You are more likely to get tension headaches if you work too much, don't get enough sleep, miss meals, or use alcohol. Other common types of headaches include migraines, cluster headaches, and sinus headaches. Most people can feel much better by making lifestyle changes, learning ways to relax and taking pain relievers. Not all headaches require a doctor's attention. But sometimes headaches warn of a more serious disorder. Let your health care provider know if you have sudden, severe headaches. Get medical help right away if you have a headache after a blow to your head, or if you have a headache along with a stiff neck, fever, confusion,

Head/Neck

What this symptom may be linked to

The entries below are informational possibilities from the MyPHU directory. They are not a probability ranking or a diagnosis.

self-care

Tension headache

A common headache often felt as a tight band around the head.

→
routine

Migraine

What are migraines?Migraines are a recurring type of headache. They cause moderate to severe pain that is throbbing or pulsing. The pain is often on one side of your head. You may also have other symptoms, such as nausea and weakness. You may be sensitive to light and sound.What causes migraines?Researchers believe that migraine has a genetic cause. There are also a number of factors that can trigger a migraine. These factors vary from person to person, and they include:StressAnxietyHormonal changes in womenBright or flashing lightsLoud noisesStrong smellsMedicinesToo much or not enough sleepSudden changes in weather or environmentOverexertion (too much physical activity)TobaccoCaffeine or caffeine withdrawalSkipped mealsMedication overuse (taking medicine for migraines too often)Some people have found that certain foods or ingredients can trigger headaches, especially when they are combined with other triggers. These foods and ingredients include:AlcoholChocolateAged cheesesMonosodium

→
routine

Dehydration

What is dehydration?Dehydration is a condition caused by the loss of too much fluid from the body. It happens when you are losing more fluids than you are taking in, and your body does not have enough fluids to work properly.What causes dehydration?You can become dehydrated because of:DiarrheaVomitingSweating too muchUrinating too much, which can happen because of certain medicines and illnessesFeverNot drinking enough water or other fluidsWho is more likely to develop dehydration?Certain people are more likely to develop dehydration:Older adults. Some people lose their sense of thirst as they age, so they don't drink enough fluids.Infants and young children, who are more likely to have diarrhea or vomitingPeople with chronic illnesses that cause them to urinate or sweat more often, such as diabetes, cystic fibrosis, or kidney problemsPeople who take medicines that cause them to urinate or sweat morePeople who exercise or work outdoors during hot weatherWhat are the symptoms of dehydr

→
emergency

Meningitis (medical emergency)

Inflammation of the protective membranes around the brain and spinal cord; urgent medical assessment is needed.

→