Home
/
Health Conditions
/
Migraines and Headaches Treatment

Migraines and headaches

Headache is a common condition in Australia, migraine is a condition that involves severe headaches. Consult a licensed online doctor within 15 minutes and get instant medical advice about your headache or migraine.

4.6/5 based on 28000+ reviews

How our doctors can help

*Medicare mandatory and timing applies.

When to consult a doctor for migraines and headaches ?

If headaches are frequent or affect daily life

See a doctor if you experience headaches or migraines several times a month or if they interfere with work, sleep, or everyday activities.

If a sudden or severe headache occurs

Seek urgent medical attention if you develop a sudden, intense headache often described as the “worst headache ever,” as this may indicate a serious condition.

If headaches are accompanied by warning symptoms or worsen

Consult a GP if headaches are associated with vision changes, numbness, weakness, confusion, difficulty speaking, occur after a head injury, or continue to worsen despite treatment.

This guide does not replace professional care. Consult a doctor to manage your symptoms. In emergencies, call 000. The content is research-backed & medically reviewed. by Dr. Ammar AL-ANI, MBChB, CCBST, AMC

Types

There are several types of headaches, each with distinct causes, symptoms, and patterns of pain, including the following:

Tension headaches: mild to moderate pain on both sides of the head caused by stress or muscle tension

Migraines: Intense pain often on one side of the head triggered by certain foods, climate change and stress

Cluster headaches: Severe burning pain around an eye which occurs in frequent episodes

Sinus headaches: deep constant pain in the forehead, cheekbones or nose due to sinus infection

Hormonal headaches: Headaches that happen due to hormonal changes, pregnancy or menopause

Your headache could be a migraine if it is severe and accompanied by other symptoms such as throbbing pain on one side of the head, sensitivity to lights, sounds and smells, nausea or vomiting and when the pain worsens with movement.

Symptoms

Migraines and headaches can present with a range of symptoms that vary in in intensity and duration, often affecting daily activities and overall well-being.

Throbbing, aching, or pressure-like pain in the head

Pain on one or both sides of the head

Sensitivity to light, sound, or smells

Nausea or vomiting (more common with migraines)

Blurred vision or visual disturbances (such as aura)

Tightness or pressure around the forehead, temples, or back of the head

Dizziness or light-headedness

Fatigue or difficulty concentrating

Worsening pain with physical activity or movement

Can dehydration cause headaches?

Yes, dehydration headaches occur when your body loses fluid at a rapid pace. It is important to take ample fluids, get enough rest, and avoid dehydrating beverages such as alcohol and caffeine.

Common Migraine Triggers

Migraines can be triggered by a variety of internal and external factors, which may differ from person to person.

Stress or emotional tension

Lack of sleep or changes in sleep patterns

Skipping meals or dehydration

Certain foods such as aged cheese, chocolate, processed foods, or foods with additives

Caffeine overuse or sudden caffeine withdrawal

Hormonal changes, including menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause

Bright lights, loud noises, or strong smells

Weather or climate changes

Excessive screen time or eye strain

What to do when I wake up with a headache?

Waking up with a headache can be caused by sleep disorders like sleep apnea and insomnia, dehydration, bruxism, poor sleep posture, and mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. Other triggers include alcohol consumption, medication overuse, oversleeping, and environmental factors. To prevent waking up with headaches, it’s important to maintain a regular sleep schedule, stay hydrated, limit alcohol and caffeine intake, manage stress, and address any underlying health conditions with a healthcare professional.

Hola Health provides a fast and convenient way for you to consult a GP online in minutes, 24/7 across Australia. Much like an in-person GP clinic, our AHPRA-registered Australian online GP will conduct a comprehensive assessment to provide the best possible care, instantly.