Quick answer
What could headache mean?
Most headaches are not serious and are caused by everyday things like stress, tiredness, dehydration or eye strain. They usually ease with rest, fluids and over-the-counter painkillers. A small number of headaches are a sign of something more serious, so it is important to know the warning signs.
Most headaches are not serious
Headaches are extremely common, and the vast majority are not a sign of anything dangerous. They are usually caused by everyday things such as stress, tiredness, dehydration, skipping meals, eye strain or a cold. These headaches tend to ease with rest, fluids and simple painkillers.
Common types and causes
- Tension-type headache — the most common kind, felt as pressure or a tight band around the head, usually on both sides.
- Migraine — a more intense, often throbbing pain, frequently on one side, commonly with nausea and sensitivity to light or sound.
- Everyday triggers — dehydration, hunger, alcohol, poor sleep, stress and eye strain.
- Medication-overuse headache — caused by taking painkillers too frequently.
Easing a headache
For an ordinary headache: rest, drink water, get some fresh air, and take paracetamol or ibuprofen if needed. A pharmacist can advise on suitable painkillers. Try to address the cause too — for example by improving sleep, taking screen breaks or managing stress.
Knowing the warning signs
While rare, some headaches need urgent attention. The key warning signs are a sudden, extremely severe headache, or a headache alongside a stiff neck, fever, rash, confusion, drowsiness, weakness, difficulty speaking, or changes in vision. If any of these occur, get emergency help straight away.
Common questions
- What is the most common cause of headaches?
- The most common type is a tension-type headache, which feels like pressure or a tight band around the head. It is usually linked to everyday factors such as stress, tiredness, dehydration or poor posture, and is not a sign of anything serious.
- When should I worry about a headache?
- Seek urgent help for a sudden, severe headache unlike any before, or a headache with fever and a stiff neck, confusion, weakness, vision changes or a rash. Also see a GP if headaches are frequent, worsening, or new in someone over 50.
- Can painkillers cause headaches?
- Yes. Taking painkillers for headaches too often — generally on more than a few days a week over time — can lead to "medication-overuse" headaches. If you are reaching for painkillers regularly, see a GP for advice.
- How can I prevent headaches?
- Staying hydrated, eating regularly, getting enough sleep, managing stress, taking breaks from screens and limiting alcohol can all help reduce common headaches.