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
Do you have a fever – a temperature of 100.4 ° F( 38 ° C) or above?
Fever
No fever
! 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
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.
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.
Have you experienced nausea and / or vomiting with the headache?
Yes
No