What is a headache?
A person with a headache has discomfort beneath the scalp or forehead, or behind the eyes. A headache may be a new symptom, or a chronic condition that tends to occur frequently. Common causes of headache include fever, head injury, viral infections, sinusitis, and migraines.

What are the symptoms of a headache?
A headache often occurs with other symptoms. These symptoms can provide an important clue to the underlying cause. Symptoms that occur with headaches include blurry vision, nausea, sensitivity to light or noise, vomiting, fever, neck pain, or neck stiffness. Symptoms that occur with serious headaches include confusion, difficulty walking, difficulty speaking, and excessive sleepiness.

How does the doctor treat a headache?
Treatment for a headache depends on the underlying cause. The general treatment of a headache includes cold compresses and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications for pain. Additional treatment for headaches may include migraine headache medications and narcotic pain medications.