Recognize when it's more than stress

Most headaches are nothing to worry about. But if headaches disrupt your daily activities, work or personal life, ask your doctor for help. You may be stressed, but perhaps there's something else going on as well.

Seek emergency care if your headache:

• Is sudden and severe
• Accompanies a fever, stiff neck, rash, confusion, seizure, double vision, weakness, numbness or difficulty speaking
• Follows a head injury, fall or bump
• Gets worse despite rest and taking over-the-counter pain medication

These signs and symptoms may indicate a medical condition that needs prompt treatment.