*Welcome to the OutUK series looking at gay men and their health brought to you in association with the NHS* website.**
	Each week we'll tackle a different topic in our A to Z of Gay Health. We'll have features and advice on everything from relationships, sexual health, mental and physical conditions and how to stay fit. You can follow any of links provided below for more information direct from the NHS website, or view any of our Previous A to Z Features.

You should also know that OutUK has produced a special report about: Coronavirus Covid-19.

This Week - H : Headaches

How you can ease headaches yourself

Headaches can last 30 minutes, several hours, or sometimes several days.

drink plenty of water
get plenty of rest if you also have a cold or the flu
try to relax - stress can make headaches worse
take paracetamol or ibuprofen
try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people if you also have a high temperature or you do not feel well enough to do your normal activities

Most headaches are not serious but sometimes you may need medical help.

you've tried treating a headache yourself and it's not getting better or is getting worse
you regularly get headaches

you or a child has a headache and vision or eye problems
you or a child has a headache triggered or made worse by coughing, sneezing, bending down or exercising
you or a child has a headache and is being sick (vomiting)
a child has a headache that's getting worse or wakes them at night
you have a headache and jaw pain when eating or a sore or tender scalp
you or a child has any other symptoms you're worried about

You can call 111 or get help from 111 online. Call 111 if you need advice for a child under 5 years old.

You or a child has a headache and:

has had a seizure (fit)
has numbness or weakness in the body or face
it started suddenly and is extremely painful
has had a head injury within the last 3 months - for example, from a fall or accident
are finding it difficult to speak, balance, walk or remember things
are drowsy or confused
has loss of vision
has a rash that does not fade when a glass is rolled over it
has a very high temperature, a stiff neck, or bright lights are bothering you

Do not drive to A&E. Ask someone to drive you or call 999 and ask for an ambulance.

Bring any medicines you take with you.

Common causes of headaches include:

Keeping a headache diary might help you work out what triggers your headaches.

Severe headaches can sometimes be caused by a migraine or cluster headache.

We'll have more information and advice next week on another topic in our A to Z of Gay Health. We have covered many subjects in this series and you can catch up with all of our Previous A to Z Features. If you want to find out more about this week's subject you can visit the Original article on the NHS website. If you are worried by any aspect of your health make sure you go and see your doctor or book an appointment at your local clinic.
Photos: LightFieldStudios and one of VladOrlov, Stockcube, darak77, ajr_images or rawpixel.com.