Headaches

Headaches can last 30 minutes, several hours, or sometimes several days.

• drink plenty of water

• get plenty of rest if you also have a cold or the flu

• try to relax – stress can make headaches worse

• take paracetamol or ibuprofen

• try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people if you also have a high temperature or you do not feel well enough to do your normal activities

• do not skip meals (even if you might not feel like eating anything)

• do not sleep more than you usually would – it can make the headache worse

• do not strain your eyes for a long time – for example, by looking at a screen

• do not drink alcohol

Most headaches are not serious but sometimes you may need medical help.

• you've tried treating a headache yourself and it's not getting better or is getting worse
• you regularly get headaches

• you or a child has a headache and vision or eye problems
• you or a child has a headache triggered or made worse by coughing, sneezing, bending down or exercising
• you or a child has a headache and is being sick (vomiting)
• a child has a headache that's getting worse or wakes them at night
• you have a headache and jaw pain when eating or a sore or tender scalp
• you or a child has any other symptoms you're worried about

You can call 111 or get help from 111 online . Call 111 if you need advice for a child under 5 years old.

You or a child has a headache and:

• has had a seizure (fit)
• has numbness or weakness in the body or face
• it started suddenly and is extremely painful
• has had a head injury within the last 3 months – for example, from a fall or accident
• are finding it difficult to speak, balance, walk or remember things
• are drowsy or confused
• has loss of vision
• has a rash that does not fade when a glass is rolled over it
• has a very high temperature, a stiff neck, or bright lights are bothering you

Do not drive to A&E. Ask someone to drive you or call 999 and ask for an ambulance.

Bring any medicines you take with you.

Common causes of headaches include:

• having a cold or flu
• stress
• drinking too much alcohol
• bad posture
• eyesight problems
• not eating regular meals
• not drinking enough fluids (dehydration)
• taking too many painkillers
• having your period or during menopause (hormone headache)

Keeping a headache diary might help you work out what triggers your headaches.

Severe headaches can sometimes be caused by a migraine or cluster headache.

To help ease a headache, drink plenty of water, try to rest and relax, and take paracetamol and ibuprofen if you need to.

Headaches are not usually serious but there are times when you may need to get medical help.

Common causes of headaches include having a cold or flu, stress, drinking too much alcohol and eyesight problems.