Symptoms and Side Effects

Headache

Person with curly hair resting their head on their hand, appearing thoughtful or tired.

Should I Be Concerned About My Headache?

Headaches can happen for many reasons. While they’re rarely a sign of something serious. However, they can still be disruptive, especially if you’re managing other side effects of treatment. Most headaches resolve on their own, but taking simple steps at home may help you feel better faster.

Woman sitting in bed with long hair and covered with a blanket, holding her head in hand, appearing tired or stressed.

Common Causes of Headaches

Chemotherapy
Dehydration
Stress
Fatigue or sleep disruption
Infections
Spread of cancer (less common)

Managing a Headache at Home – Dos and Don’ts

Do

Rest in a quiet, dark room. Close your eyes and try to relax or sleep.
Use a cold compress. Apply a cold, moist cloth or cold pack to the painful area for 10–20 minutes.
Try a warm compress. Use a warm, moist towel or a heating pad on low to relax tight neck and shoulder muscles.
Ask someone to gently massage your neck and shoulders to relieve tension.
Take pain medicine exactly as prescribed.

Don’t

Use screens or read while resting…light and stimulation can make headaches worse.
Put ice directly on your skin—always place a thin cloth between the cold source and your body.
Fall asleep with a heating pad on or leave it in place for too long.
Press too hard on tender areas or massage if it causes discomfort.
Take more than the recommended dose of pain medication, and check with your doctor before using over-the-counter (OTC) options

Preventing Headaches

Track Your Triggers

Keep a headache diary to help identify patterns. Write down when headaches start, how long they last, and what the pain feels like.

Practice Good Posture

Poor posture can cause muscle tension that contributes to headaches.

Stretch Regularly

If sitting for long periods (like at a desk), take a short stretch break every hour.

Stay Hydrated and Nourished

Eat balanced meals on a regular schedule, and avoid skipping meals.

Limited Caffeine

Gradually cut back if needed as abrupt withdrawal can trigger headaches.

Get Enough Sleep

Create a consistent sleep routine and avoid oversleeping or sleep deprivation.

Reduce Eyestrain

Use proper lighting, blink often, and take screen breaks when working on a computer.

Manage Stress

Try breathing exercises, mindfulness, or gentle movement. For more support, visit our Emotional Care page.

When to Get Help

Reach out to your doctor if:

You have a sudden, severe headache that feels different from others you’ve had.
Your headaches are happening at an increased frequency.
You experience additional symptoms like:
- Numbness
- Weakness in your face, arm, or leg
- Vision changes
- Trouble speaking or confusion
- You have a fever along with your headache