18 Oct 2026
Heartburn, Acid Reflux and Gastritis: Causes and Relief
2 min readRead More
Headaches: Common Types, Relief and Warning Signs
Most headaches are harmless and ease with simple measures. Learn about tension headaches, migraines and dehydration headaches, and the red flags that need urgent care.
Quick answer
Most headaches are tension-type headaches or migraines and are not serious. Rest, fluids, regular meals and simple painkillers usually help. Call 998 for a sudden, severe "worst ever" headache, a headache with weakness, confusion, slurred speech, a stiff neck with fever, or after a head injury. See a GP for frequent headaches or if you use painkillers on many days of the month.
Almost everyone gets headaches. In the UAE, dehydration, long screen hours, skipped meals during busy workdays and poor sleep are common triggers.
Common types
Tension-type headache A tight band or pressure around the head, often linked to stress, posture, tiredness or eye strain.
Migraine A throbbing headache, often on one side, with nausea and sensitivity to light or noise. Some people see flashing lights or zigzags (aura) beforehand. Attacks can last hours to days.
Dehydration headache Common in summer and during fasting. It usually improves with fluids and rest.
Medication-overuse headache Taking painkillers on many days each month can cause daily headaches.
Relief at home
- Drink water and eat regular meals.
- Rest in a quiet, dark room for migraine.
- Take simple painkillers as directed, if they are safe for you.
- Take regular screen breaks and check your posture.
- Keep a headache diary to identify triggers such as caffeine, lack of sleep or certain foods.
Red flags: get urgent help (call 998)
- A sudden, severe headache that peaks within a minute ("thunderclap")
- Headache with weakness, numbness, drooping face, slurred speech or confusion
- Headache with fever, stiff neck and a rash
- Headache after a head injury
- Headache with a seizure or fainting
See a GP if
- Headaches are getting more frequent or severe
- You use painkillers on more than 10 to 15 days a month
- Headaches wake you from sleep or are worst on waking
- You are over 50 and have a new type of headache
- You have a headache with vision changes or jaw pain when chewing
Frequently asked questions
Can high blood pressure cause headaches?
Usually high blood pressure causes no symptoms. Very high readings can cause headaches, so a blood pressure check is a sensible part of a headache review. See our guide to high blood pressure checks.
Do I need a brain scan?
Most headaches don't need a scan. Your doctor will recommend one if there are warning signs.
