1. Take Pain Medication

• Give ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), aspirin, or acetaminophen (Tylenol) for pain. Avoid ibuprofen and other NSAIDs if the person has heart failure or kidney failure. Do not give aspirinto a child under age 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
• A severe headache that comes on suddenly
• A headache that gets worse even after taking pain medications