Headaches

Specific types of headache could be:

• Tension headache: this is usually mild or moderate; It can be felt as a band around the head and is not usually associated with nausea or light sensitivity;
• Cluster headache or migraine: this is usually intense and comes on quickly; It can be felt on one side and is associated with nausea and light sensitivity;

Headaches are common and usually disappear without requiring diagnosis or treatment.

Tension headaches will rarely last more than a few hours.

A migraine typically lasts for less than an hour, but can occur more than once per day and can extend over several days or weeks.

Avoid things that may contribute to tension or cluster headaches. For example:

• Excessive alcohol;
• Unsuitable posture;
• Causes of stress;
• Get treatment for muscular injuries that may contribute to your headache;
• Avoid food or drink that you know causes headaches, for example dark chocolate, cheese or red wine can cause migraines in some people;

• Try applying a hot towel or practicing relaxation excercises to relieve muscle tension.

If in doubt, discuss over-the-counter medication with your pharmacist.

• Paracetamol or ibuprofen can be taken to ease the pain;
• Codeine can be used, but with caution as it can be addictive;
• Some over-the-counter medications, such as Migraleve, may be suitable for less severe cases of migraine.

• Headache accompanied by drowsiness or lethargy;
• A purple rash that does not disappear under a glass;
• A sudden, severe headache that starts without apparent cause;
• A high temperature while at the same time looking pale;
• Abnormal distressed crying in babies;
• A persistent headache that is worst when you wake up or persists for more than 1 week;
• A headache following an accident or fall.