Headache: First aid - Mayo Clinic

While most headaches are minor, some warn of a serious condition. Here’s when to worry about a headache.

Overview

Most headaches are minor, and you can treat them with a pain reliever. Some headaches, however, signal a dangerous or serious medical condition. Don’t ignore headaches that aren’t explained or headaches that steadily worsen.

When to seek emergency help

Get immediate medical attention if your headache:

Develops suddenly and is very painful.
Lasts for several days.
Causes mental confusion or loss of consciousness.
Happens with seizures.

Immediate medical attention also is needed if your headache occurs with new:

Dizziness or loss of balance.
Weakness or not being able to move part of the body, such as the arms or legs.
Numbness.
Trouble speaking or understanding speech.
Reddened eye or droopy eyelid.
Fever, stiff neck or rash.

Also seek medical attention if your headache:

Happens with changes in vision, such as blurring or seeing halos around lights.
Is serious and follows a recent sore throat or respiratory infection.
Begins or worsens after a head injury, fall or bump.
Is triggered by changing the position of your head, coughing, sneezing, bending or physical activity.
Is a different type of headache from your usual type and you’re older than 50.

Treatment

While you wait for medical attention, taking these steps may help your headache:

Take a pain reliever, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others), naproxen sodium (Aleve) or acetaminophen (Tylenol, others).
Drink fluids.
Drink a beverage with caffeine, such as coffee, tea or soda.
Try to avoid bright light if it makes your headache worse.