When Should You See a Doctor for a Headache?

Is your headache interfering with your everyday life? Know when to see a doctor for a headache.

Headaches are common: Every year, about 45 million Americans say that they have headaches. But some headaches need to be brought to the attention of a doctor.

Read on to learn when it’s time to see a doctor for a headache.

Tension Headaches

If you are experiencing a headache, it is essential to determine whether it is a tension headache or something more serious. Tension headaches are the most common type of headache and usually feel like a band of tightness around your forehead. These headaches can be caused by stress, dehydration, or poor posture.

If you have a tension headache, you may be able to relieve the pain with over-the-counter medication, ice, or deep tissue massage. If you have frequent or severe tension headaches, you should see a doctor rule out other causes.

Migraines

If you have a headache that is severe, persists for more than a week, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as vision changes, nausea, or vomiting, you should seek medical help for headaches.

Other warning signs that indicate you should see a doctor for your headache include a stiff neck, fever, and pain when coughing or bending over.

Cluster Headaches

If you are experiencing cluster symptoms of a headache, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Cluster headaches are a type of headache that is characterized by severe pain, often on one side of the head.

Cluster headaches are a severe condition that can be very debilitating. If you are experiencing cluster headaches, your doctor will likely prescribe medication to help relieve the pain and provide headache remedies.

Sinus Headaches

A sinus headache is often characterized by pain in the forehead, temples, and behind the eyes. The pain is usually worse when you bend forward or lie down. It can be accompanied by a fever, runny nose, facial pressure, or swelling.

If you have a sinus headache, you should see a doctor. Treatment may include antibiotics if you have a sinus infection or pain relievers and decongestants to attain headache relief.

Rebound Headaches

Rebound headaches are caused by overuse of pain medication, and it can be challenging to break the cycle without professional help. If you are taking pain medication for headaches more than twice a week, you may be at risk for rebound headaches.

Know When to See a Doctor for a Headache

If you experience headaches that are severe, last more than a day or are accompanied by other symptoms, you should see a doctor. Treating headaches early can help prevent more serious conditions from developing.

We hope this article helped you in answering when to see a doctor for a headache. Whatever your health issue and whatever you need to know, we’re here to help.

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