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

By Mayo Clinic Staff

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.
Jan. 29, 2025