Pharmacy First | Headaches

This article has been written and medically approved by Pharmacist Conor McSorley GPhC Reg No. 2223070

What Should I Do for a Headache?

There are many different types of headaches, caused by a large range of reasons. The most common reasons are stress, alcohol, eyesight, lack of food, dehydration, or cold and flu. Many headaches will clear by themselves and are not generally serious however, they can be incredibly painful and affect your ability to work or drive. 

If you are suffering from a headache, you can try:

• Drinking plenty of fluid
• Get plenty of rest if you have a cold or the flu
• Try and relax
• Take over-the-counter medicine such as paracetamol and ibuprofen

If paracetamol and ibuprofen do not provide effective relief from the headache or you have had the headache for longer than a few hours, make contact with your local pharmacist. We can provide advice and discuss whether you need a further referral or can sell stronger over the counter medication.

Why Visit the Pharmacy First?

By knowing when it is appropriate to visit your local pharmacy first, you can ensure that you are receiving the most appropriate level of care by a suitable healthcare professional at the right time. By choosing to visit the pharmacist first, you will get the clinical advice and support you need on the same day and only be signposted to your GP if needed.

A pharmacist will refer the following patients to their GP but if you fall under any of the below patient groups, it may still be worth contacting your pharmacist first to get help and advice quicker while you wait for your appointment. 

• If you suffer from recurrent headaches
• If you feel sick, vomit and find light or noise painful
• If you suffer bad throbbing pain at the front or side of your head.

All information is correct at the time of writing.