MILD HEADACHES

If the headache is chronic or recurrent, and if you suffer some vision problems before or during the headache, it is likely that you have a migraine. Book a doctor’s appointment just to make sure.

What to do: A migraine headache can often be relieved by taking painkillers. If the attacks are frequent, however, you may need to identify anything that might be triggering it. Cheese, coffee and chocolate are common food triggers, as are irregular eating and sleeping patterns. If these measures don’t help, ask your doctor about medication.

MIGRAINES

If the headache is chronic or recurrent, and if you suffer some vision problems before or during the headache, it is likely that you have a migraine. Book a doctor’s appointment just to make sure.

What to do: A migraine headache can often be relieved by taking painkillers. If the attacks are frequent, however, you may need to identify anything that might be triggering it. Cheese, coffee and chocolate are common food triggers, as are irregular eating and sleeping patterns. If these measures don’t help, ask your doctor about medication.

OTHER HEADACHES

Do you have a fever?

Yes: In both adults and children, illnesses that cause a rise in temperature also cause a headache. They can be serious. If you also have a flat, red, nonfading rash, drowsiness or confusion, a dislike of bright light, weakened limbs or blurred vision, call an ambulance immediately as it could be meningitis.

No:It could be sinusitis. This inflammation of the membranes lining the air spaces in the skull can cause headaches, felt mainly in the face, and affects both adults and children. Either way, see a doctor, who may prescribe antibiotics.

Subarachnoid haemorrhage: A severe headache that comes on very quickly could be the result of bleeding within the skull because of a ruptured blood vessel. Call a doctor, who will probably refer you to hospital for tests.

Acute glaucoma: Common in the over40s, and often causes blurred vision. Consult your doctor, who may refer you to hospital for tests and eye drops to relieve pressure.

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