About this service
Headaches are a common condition that can range from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating pain. This includes tension-type headaches, migraines, and cluster headaches, each with different causes and symptoms. Headaches may result from stress, dehydration, illness, sinus problems, or neurological triggers.
What to Expect
A visit may include:
The goal is symptom relief and determining the appropriate next steps.
- Review your headache history, onset, location, frequency, and severity
- Ask about associated symptoms such as nausea, light sensitivity, vision changes, tearing, or nasal congestion
- Differentiate between tension headaches, migraines, and cluster headaches based on symptoms and exam
- Check vital signs and perform a focused neurological assessment
- Assess for dehydration, sinus infection, or other contributing conditions
- Provide treatment options, which may include oral medications, anti-nausea treatment, hydration, or intramuscular medications for headache or migraine relief when appropriate
When to Visit
You should visit urgent care for headaches if you have:
- Moderate to severe headache not relieved by over-the-counter medication
- Recurrent migraines or tension headaches interfering with daily activities
- Intense, one-sided headaches with eye pain or tearing (possible cluster headaches)
- Headache with nausea, vomiting, or light sensitivity
- Headache associated with sinus pressure, illness, or dehydration
When to seek emergency care
Seek emergency care immediately for sudden, severe "worst headache of your life," headache with confusion, weakness, vision loss, fever with stiff neck, head injury, or new neurological symptoms.
Frequently asked questions
Can urgent care treat different types of headaches?
Yes. Urgent care can evaluate and treat tension-type headaches, migraines, and cluster headaches based on symptoms and severity.
What is the difference between migraines and tension headaches?
Tension headaches are usually mild to moderate and feel like pressure or tightness, while migraines are often more severe and associated with nausea and light sensitivity.
Are cluster headaches serious?
Cluster headaches are extremely painful but not typically life-threatening. Evaluation helps ensure appropriate treatment and rule out other causes.
Can dehydration cause headaches?
Dehydration can contribute to headaches. A provider can assess your symptoms and hydration, and recommend treatment or further care.