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First Aid & Emergencies

Call 911 NOW if you are having:

  • Chest Pain
  • Difficulty Breathing
  • Severe Bleeding
  • Sudden Weakness or Numbness
  • A Medical Emergency
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Mild Headache Treatment

1. Take Pain Medication

  • Give ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), aspirin, or acetaminophen (Tylenol) for pain. Do not give aspirin to a child under 18.

 

2. Try Self-Care Strategies

  • The person should drink plenty of liquids. Dehydration can cause or worsen a headache.
  • Apply a cool cloth or ice pack to the forehead, temples, or back of the neck.
  • Massage the person's neck and back to relieve muscle tension.
  • Apply gentle, rotating pressure to the painful area of the head.
  • Have the person rest or take a warm bath or shower.

 

3. When to Call a Health Care Provider

Seek medical care immediately for:

  • A headache that occurs after a head injury.
  • A headache that is accompanied by dizziness, speech impairment, confusion, or other neurological symptoms.

 

WebMD Medical Reference

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Reviewed by Varnada Karriem-Norwood, MD on November 07, 2011
© 2011 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.

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