Headaches can be caused by many things. Headaches are common and usually not serious. Many people suffer from them from time to time. The symptoms can vary: a pressing sensation, throbbing pain or a stabbing pain in one place. Sometimes headaches go away by themselves, but they can also last longer or recur regularly.
There are different types of headaches, such as tension headache, migraine or cluster headache. Often, it is not exactly clear where the pain comes from. Factors such as stress, fatigue, incorrect posture, bright light or not drinking enough can play a role.
In most cases, treatment is not necessary and rest, sufficient sleep or painkillers such as paracetamol help. Sometimes it is wise to see a GP, for example if the headache suddenly feels different from what you are used to, or if you have other symptoms besides the headache, such as fever, neck stiffness or blurred vision.
Headaches can have many different causes. The most common form is tension headache. It is often caused by stress, fatigue, incorrect posture or too little sleep. Skipping meals, not drinking enough, bright light or looking at a screen for too long can also cause headaches.
Some people get headaches from certain stimuli, such as bright lights, strong smells, hormonal fluctuations (e.g. during menstruation), or changes in the weather. In migraine, such stimuli often play a role.
Taking medications, especially painkillers, can also actually cause headaches over time. This is called medication-overuse headache.
Sometimes a headache is a signal of something else in the body, such as an infection, high blood pressure or a side effect of medication. It is usually harmless, but in rare cases it may indicate a serious cause.
Sometimes headaches come from an unhealthy lifestyle. Healthy living can help reduce or prevent headaches. Get enough sleep, eat regularly and drink enough water. Try to limit stress and take rest in time, especially when doing screen work. Exercise regularly, but don't force yourself during a headache attack.
If your headache is bothering you a lot, you can take a painkiller like paracetamol. Don't take painkillers too often: preferably don't use them more often than 2-3 days a week. Using them too often can actually make headaches worse. This is called medication-dependent headache.
If necessary, hold a headache diary at. This way you can see if there is a pattern, for example due to stress, diet or hormones. This can also help if you go to the GP later.
Call the GP or GP surgery immediately in case of a sudden, severe headache and one or more of the following symptoms: stiff neck, fever, drowsiness, vomiting, red spots on the skin, paralysis, crooked mouth, difficulty speaking or seeing, or if you are pregnant or have recently given birth. Also call if you have bumped your head in the past 6 weeks.
Call GP for appointment if you have frequent headaches, need a lot of painkillers, the advice is not helping, or if the headache is different or worse than you are used to. Also contact us if you have any concerns.
Dutch
English
Dutch 
English