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Head pain: First aid

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Head pain: First aid

Most headaches are minor, and you can treat them with a pain reliever. Some head pain, however, signals a dangerous or serious medical problem. Don't ignore unexplained head pain or head pain that steadily worsens. Get medical attention right away if your head pain:

  • Develops suddenly and severely
  • Accompanies a fever, stiff neck, rash, mental confusion, seizures, changes in vision, dizziness, weakness, loss of balance, numbness or difficulty speaking
  • Is severe and follows a recent sore throat or respiratory infection
  • Begins or worsens after a head injury, fall or bump
  • Is a new pain, and you're older than 50
  • Is excruciating and affects just one, reddened eye
  • Progressively worsens over the course of a single day, or persists for several days

Last Updated: 01/10/2008
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