Quick Answer
Most headaches can be managed at home. However, seek immediate medical attention if you experience a sudden, severe headache (worst of your life), headache with fever and stiff neck, vision changes, confusion, or after a head injury.
🚨 Seek Emergency Care Immediately For:
“Thunderclap” Headache
Sudden, severe headache that reaches maximum intensity within seconds—often described as the “worst headache of my life.” This could indicate bleeding in the brain.
Headache + Fever + Stiff Neck
This combination could indicate meningitis, a serious infection requiring immediate treatment.
After Head Injury
Any headache following a blow to the head, especially with confusion, vomiting, or loss of consciousness.
With Neurological Symptoms
Vision loss, double vision, weakness, numbness, difficulty speaking, or confusion.
Sudden Change in Pattern
If you have chronic headaches and they suddenly feel completely different or much worse.
⚠️ Call 911 or go to the emergency room immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.
📞 See Your Doctor Within 24-48 Hours For:
- • Headache that doesn't improve with over-the-counter medication
- • Increasing frequency or severity of headaches
- • Headaches that wake you from sleep
- • New onset of headaches after age 50
- • Headache with rash or unexplained bruising
- • Headaches that worsen with coughing, sneezing, or physical activity
- • Persistent headache in someone with cancer, HIV, or weakened immune system
When to Schedule a Routine Appointment
See your doctor for a routine appointment if you experience:
- • Headaches more than 2-3 times per week
- • Need to take pain medication most days
- • Headaches interfering with daily activities or work
- • Pattern changes in chronic headaches
- • Want to discuss prevention strategies
Common Headache Types
Tension Headaches
Feels like: Tight band around your head, dull ache on both sides
Typical causes: Stress, poor posture, eye strain
Migraines
Feels like: Throbbing pain, usually one-sided, with nausea and light sensitivity
Typical causes: Genetic, hormonal changes, certain foods, stress
Cluster Headaches
Feels like: Severe pain around one eye, watery eye, runny nose
Typical causes: Unknown, occurs in patterns or clusters
Medical Review
Reviewed by: Ricardo Hamilton, MD
Last Updated: November 26, 2025
Sources: American Headache Society, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Mayo Clinic Headache Guidelines