Most headaches are mild and can be relieved with over-the-counter pain medication. However, some headaches may indicate a serious medical condition. Pay attention to unexplained headaches or those that progressively worsen and SEEK MEDICAL CARE IF NEEDED.

Get URGENT medical care if your headache:

• Comes on suddenly and is intensely painful
• Persists for several days
• Causes mental confusion or loss of consciousness
• Occurs alongside seizures
• Is accompanied by dizziness or loss of balance, weakness, or inability to move a part of the body (e.g., arms or legs), numbness, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, red or painful eye or a droopy eyelid, fever, stiff neck, or rash

Also, consult a doctor if your headache:

• Includes vision changes (blurry vision, seeing halos around lights)
• Follows a sore throat or respiratory infection and is severe
• Starts or worsens after a head injury, fall, or bump
• Is triggered by head movements, coughing, sneezing, bending, or physical activity
• Feels different from your usual headaches and you are over 50

While awaiting medical attention, these steps may help ease your headache:

• Take an over-the-counter pain reliever (consult your Mercury Drug pharmacist for the appropriate medicine)
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids
• Have a caffeinated beverage such as coffee, tea, or soda
• Avoid bright lights if they worsen your headache