Headaches - Measures for Self-care

Tension headache: Pain or pressure in scalp, temples or back of the head; and tightness in neck and shoulders.

Sinus headache: Pain behind the forehead and eyes; sinus congestion; and fever.

Migraine headache: Severe throbbing pain which usually starts on one side of the head and may lead to nausea, vomiting; dizziness, increased sensitivity to light and noise and problems with vision, such as blind spots or flashing lights.

Measures for Self-care

• Take an over-the-counter medicine for reducing the pain as soon as possible. Don't wait for the pain to become worse!
• Rest in a quiet, dark room with your eyes closed.
• Massage the base of your head with your thumbs.
• Take a warm bath or shower.
• Place a cold or warm washcloth, whichever feels better, over the area that aches. Or else, place an ice pack on the back or the top of the head.
• Try to relax. Meditation and yoga can help.

Call Your Doctor for

• Headaches that occur at the same time of day, week, or mouth.
• A headache that starts after taking a newly prescribed medicine or an over-the-counter medicine.

Get Immediate Care for

• A serious head injury or loss of consciousness.
• A headache accompanied by pain in one eye, blurred vision, double vision, slurring of speech, mental confusion, personality change, or difficulty in moving arms or legs.
• A headache along with a stiff neck, fever, lethargy nausea and vomiting.