Headache

What is a headache?

A headache is a symptom that can have many causes. Sometimes a headache is caused by:

• a cold or other viral illness
• a high fever
• a head injury
• hunger (many teens get a headache in the late afternoon when they are hungry).

Headaches that keep returning are called recurrent headaches. The most common cause of recurrent headaches is tension. Tension headaches give a sensation of tightness that completely encircles the head. The neck muscles also become sore and tight. Tension headaches can be caused by prolonged use of video games, computers, or typewriters. Many people get tension headaches as a reaction to stress (such as pressure for better grades or unresolved disagreements). Recurrent headaches can have numerous causes and deserve a medical evaluation.

How long does it last?

Many headaches caused by illness go away when the fever comes down. Others come and go during the illness. Tension headaches usually last from a few hours to a day and tend to recur.

How can I take care of myself?

• General headache care
  • Lie down and rest until you feel better.
  • If you are hungry, eat some food or drink fruit juice.
  • Take ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) as soon as the headache begins.
  • Put a cool, wet washcloth on your forehead.
• Tension headaches

  If you have seen your health care provider and have tension headaches, try the following to help ease the pain:

  • When a headache occurs, you should lie down and relax. Take acetaminophen or ibuprofen as soon as the headache begins. (Avoid aspirin if you have a fever.) The medication is more effective if it is started early.
  • If something is bothering you, talk about it and get it off your mind.
  • Don't skip meals if doing so brings on headaches.
  • Stretch and massage any tight neck muscles.
  • To prevent tension headaches, take breaks from activities that require sustained concentration. Do relaxation exercises during the breaks.
  • If overachievement causes headaches, get out of the fast track.

When should I call my health care provider?

Call IMMEDIATELY if:

• The pain is severe and persists more than 2 hours after you take pain medication.
• You have difficulty with vision, thinking, speech, or walking.
• Your neck is stiff.
• You are feeling very sick.

Call during office hours if:

• Headaches are a recurrent problem for you.
• The headache has lasted more than 24 hours even though you have taken pain medicines.
• You have other concerns or questions.