Most headaches are minor, and you can treat them with a pain reliever. Some headaches, however, signal a dangerous or serious medical problem. Don't ignore unexplained headaches or headaches that steadily worsen.

Get immediate medical attention if your headache:

• Develops suddenly and severely
• Progressively worsens over the course of a single day or persists for several days
• Causes mental confusion or loss of consciousness

Immediate medical attention is also needed if your headache is accompanied by:

• Seizures, dizziness or loss of balance
• Weakness or paralysis, such as in the arms or legs
• Numbness
• Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
• A reddened eye

Also seek medical attention if your headache:

• Is accompanied by fever, stiff neck or rash
• Is accompanied by changes in vision, such as blurring or seeing halos around lights
• Is severe and follows a recent sore throat or respiratory infection
• Begins or worsens after a head injury, fall or bump
• Is triggered by changing the position of your head, coughing, sneezing, bending or physical activity
• Is a different type of headache from your usual type and you're older than 50