Headaches

Headaches have many causes. Often they can develop for no apparent reason or as a symptom of common illnesses such as flu. Sometimes they are an indicator of a more serious condition such as a head injury, stroke or other serious illness.

Symptoms of tension headaches

• Sensation of a band tightening around the skull
• Pain ranges in intensity
• A throbbing sensation that pulses in time with the heartbeat
• May be accompanied by eye or neck pain

First Aid Treatment

1. Help the person into a comfortable position in a quiet place. Consider remedies such as dimming the lights, cold compress, fresh air and sips of cold water.
2. Check for other signs and symptoms that may indicate a more serious condition and take action as appropriate. Seek urgent medical advice if: There has been a head injury, There are signs and symptoms of meningitis, The person appears confused, drowsy, or there is any fall in the level of consciousness.
3. Help the person to take her usual painkillers.
4. If the pain persists, seek medical advice.

Signs and symptoms of meningitis

Any combination of the following may be present:

• Fever
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Stiff neck (pain or difficulty in touching the chest with the chin)
• Convulsions
• Sensitivity to light
• Rash (bleeding under the skin) which does not go away if a glass is pressed against it

In addition, in babies and young children:

• The soft spot on the head (the fontanelle) may be stretched tight
• There may be floppiness, lack of focus on surroundings.

Related topic

• Home remedies for headache