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Introductory text This text describes common causes of the relevant symptom.
Starting point From the starting point, question and arrow pathways guide you around the chart.
Question box Each question is followed by two or more possible answers. Choose the one that is most applicable.
Self-help advice This text describes what you can do to treat the symptom at home and when you should consult your doctor.
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84
FAMILY ILLNESS
Headache
Fever and tension in head and neck muscles are common causes of headache. Too much alcohol, caffeine, or nicotine may also cause headache. Most headaches do not last for more than a few hours. If your headache lasts for more than 24 hours, is not improved by over-the-counter analgesics, or recurs several times in a week, consult your doctor.
START
Have you hit your head within the past 24 hours?
Head injury
No head injury
Are danger signs present( see box above right) or have you vomited?
Danger signs present
Vomited after head injury
No danger signs or vomiting
ACTION
!
DIAL 911 OR CALL EMS There may be damage to the tissues that surround the brain.
Do you have a fever – a temperature of 100.4 ° F( 38 ° C) or above?
Fever
No fever
ACTION
TRY SELF-HELP MEASURES A mild headache is common following a minor head injury.
• Take an analgesic( not aspirin).
CALL YOUR DOCTOR
IMMEDIATELY if your headache lasts for more than 2 hours or if you develop other symptoms.
ACTION
TRY SELF-HELP MEASURES Sinusitis is the likely cause of your headache.
• Try inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water( p. 165).
CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR if you feel no better within 2 days.
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! Danger signs Dial 911 or call EMS if a headache is accompanied by any of the following symptoms:
• Drowsiness or confusion.
• Weakness of a limb.
• Blurred vision.
• Dislike of bright light.
• Temporary unconsciousness.
ACTION
GO TO ANOTHER CHART Fever( adults), p. 74, or Fever( children), p. 76
Have you experienced nausea and / or vomiting with the headache?
Yes
No
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How is your vision?
Blurred vision
Disturbed in other ways
Unchanged
ACTION
CALL YOUR DOCTOR NOW You have probably a migraine, particularly if any visual problems occurred before the headache. However, the slight chance of a more serious disorder, such as a stroke, needs to be ruled out if this is your first migraine.
• Take an analgesic and sips of water.
• Rest in a darkened, quiet room until the pain subsides.
If you have had any previous attacks, try to identify and avoid potential triggers, such as chocolate.
Does either of the following apply?
The pain is felt chiefly in the areas above and below the eyes
You have recently had a runny or stuffy nose
Neither
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