Overview
Everyone gets a headache once in a while; however, understanding when they signal something more serious can make all the difference. In Friendswood, TX, Friendswood Community Hospital has a team of board-certified specialists, physicians, and nurses, ready to address all your headache-related emergencies—24/7. Read on to get all the information you need to help you make the right decisions concerning your health, specifically when it comes to emergency headache concerns.
Common Types of Headaches
Not all headaches are created equal, and understanding the type you’re experiencing can help you decide the best course of action:
- Tension Headaches: These are usually due to stress. They can be local, manifesting as a feeling of a tight band around the head, and are normally controllable.
- Sinus Headaches: Sinus headaches usually result from sinus infections, and are accompanied by congestion of the nasal passages and sinus pressure.
- Migraines: These produce very severe, pulsating pain that may be associated with vomiting, phonophobia and photophobia, and occasionally, aura (visual changes). Migraines are persistent, lasting anywhere from 4 hours to 3 days, which underlines the need for medical attention.
Red Flags–Symptoms Indicating the Need for Emergency Care
While most headaches are harmless, some signs and symptoms may indicate the presence of a more severe health problem like a stroke, brain aneurysm, or meningitis. Seek immediate emergency care if your headache is accompanied by:
- Sudden, severe pain (often called a “thunderclap headache”)
- Difficulty walking or speaking
- Fever
- Blurred vision
- Numbness or weakness
- High fever or confusion
Headaches accompanied by any of the symptoms above indicate the need to visit Friendswood Community Hospital’s emergency room—immediately. In case reaching the hospital becomes a challenge, call 911.
Headaches and Underlying Medical Conditions
Individuals with specific medical histories should be extra cautious. If you have any of the following conditions and experience a debilitating headache, you should visit our emergency department in Friendswood, TX immediately:
- Previous Head Injury: Headaches can be associated with signs of post-traumatic complications.
- Use of Blood Thinners: These medications exacerbate the danger of more severe conditions.
- Oral Contraceptives: Oral contraceptives and smoking, combined, significantly increase the risk of blood clot among women.
Friendswood Community Hospital’s ER Services
The emergency department at our healthcare facility meets all of your emergency needs—individually. Key features include:
- Online Check-In: Save time by completing your ER check-in online. This option lessens the waiting time and guarantees that our staff is ready to cater to your emergency—immediately on arrival. Check-in now.
- Board-Certified Providers: When you engage our emergency care services, you are served by our team made up of professional doctors, nurses, and specialists in emergency room treatments.
- Timely Care: There is minimal to no waiting time, since our desire is to accurately diagnose and treat you as soon as possible.
Know the Difference: When to Seek Urgent vs. Emergency Care
If the headache does not present any “red flag” symptoms, then, urgent care may be appropriate. Ready Care services available at Friendswood Community Hospital focus on managing minor emergencies. This express lane provides:
- Quick treatment for manageable headaches
- On-site medication, including “migraine cocktails” for pain relief
- Neurological evaluations to ensure there are no underlying issues
If you are not sure whether you require urgent or emergency care, our medical team is here to assist. Visit Friendswood Community Hospital for more information.
Don’t ‘Risk It’ with Headache Emergencies—Get Expert Care at Friendswood Community Hospital
Don’t wait to seek the care you need. We are conveniently located to swiftly serve the communities of Friendswood, TX and surrounding areas in any medical emergencies, including headaches—24/7.
Visit us at Friendswood Community Hospital or call 911 for immediate assistance.