Headaches and migraine
Headaches are very common, and most are harmless. The most frequent type is a tension headache, and many people also get migraines. Simple self-care and pharmacy medicines usually help, but a few headaches are a sign of something more serious, so it is worth knowing the warning signs.
- Most common
- Tension-type headache
- Painkillers
- Best used only occasionally
- Warning signs
- See the boxes below
Common types
- Tension headache — a dull, tight or pressing ache on both sides of the head, often like a band around it. It is usually mild to moderate and is not made worse by moving around.
- Migraine — a moderate to severe throbbing pain, often on one side, that can last from hours to a few days. It is often with feeling or being sick, and sensitivity to light and sound. Some people see flashing lights or zigzag lines, or have tingling, before the headache (this is called aura).
- Cluster headache — very severe pain around one eye, coming in clusters over weeks. It is rare and needs a doctor's assessment.
- Medication-overuse headache — caused by taking painkillers too often (see below).
Common triggers
Not drinking enough, missing meals, poor or too little sleep, stress, eye strain and long periods at a screen, poor posture, too much or too little caffeine, alcohol, and some strong smells can all bring on a headache. For migraine, hormonal changes, certain foods and changes in routine are also common triggers.
What you can do yourself
- Rest somewhere quiet and, if you have migraine, dark. Drink a glass of water.
- Take paracetamol or ibuprofen at the first sign of the headache, as the pack says, if they are suitable for you. Ask us if you take other medicines, are pregnant, or have asthma, stomach ulcers, or kidney, liver or heart problems.
- Try to keep to regular meals and sleep times, and drink enough fluid through the day.
- Take breaks from screens, and get an eye test if you often get headaches when reading or using a screen.
- Gentle neck and shoulder stretches, a warm shower or a cool cloth on the forehead can help tension headaches.
- Keep a headache diary noting when they happen and what you were doing, eating and feeling. It helps to spot triggers, and is useful to show your doctor.
Too many painkillers can cause headaches
Taking painkillers on most days can itself lead to daily or near-daily headaches (medication-overuse headache). As a general rule, try not to use painkillers for headaches on more than about two days a week. If you find you need them more often, speak to us or your GP, rather than taking more.
How PRX Pharmacy can help
Our pharmacists can advise on the best painkiller for you, and on whether your headaches need a doctor's review. If you have had migraines diagnosed by a doctor, we may be able to advise on migraine-specific treatments available from the pharmacy — ask us.
When to get medical help
Call 999 or go to A&E if:
- • You have a sudden, severe headache, unlike any you have had before (sometimes called a thunderclap headache — like being hit on the head)
- • You have a headache with a stiff neck, high temperature, dislike of bright light, or a rash that does not fade when you press a glass against it
- • You have a headache with confusion, drowsiness, difficulty speaking, weakness in an arm or leg, drooping of the face, loss of vision or double vision, or a seizure (fit)
- • You have a headache after a head injury
Contact your GP practice or call 111 the same day if:
- • You are over 50 and have a new headache, especially with a tender scalp, pain in the jaw when chewing, or changes to your vision — get help the same day
- • Your headaches are getting steadily worse over days or weeks, or wake you from sleep, or are worse when you cough, strain or lie down
- • You have a headache with vomiting that is not explained by a stomach bug
- • You are pregnant and have a bad headache, especially with blurred vision or swelling of the face, hands or feet
- • You have headaches with a high temperature
- • You need painkillers for headaches on more than about two days a week
- • A child has repeated or severe headaches
- • Your headaches are severe, come in clusters around one eye, or have changed in pattern
If you are ever worried and unsure, ask us or call 111. Trust your instincts — it is always better to ask.
This guide is general information written by the PRX Pharmacy team. It does not replace advice from a pharmacist or doctor who knows your medical history.
Last updated 24 September 2026. Clinically reviewed by Milan Patel, Pharmacist on 24 September 2026.
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