Almost everyone gets headaches. But there's a world of difference between a mild tension headache and a thunderclap headache, a cluster headache, or a severe migraine attack. When headaches are debilitating, you deserve proper medical support.
TYPES OF HEADACHE AND THEIR IMPACT ON WORK
Tension headaches (the most common type) — typically mild to moderate, usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relief. Unlikely to justify a sick note on their own.
Migraine — moderate to severe, often one-sided, with associated nausea, light and sound sensitivity. A migraine attack can completely incapacitate you for hours to days. This absolutely can justify a sick note.
Cluster headaches — extreme, excruciating pain, often described as the most severe pain a human can experience. During a cluster period, working is essentially impossible.
Medication overuse headache (rebound headache) — headaches caused by taking pain medication too frequently. Can be severe and prolonged.
Headaches from underlying conditions — raised intracranial pressure, meningitis, subarachnoid haemorrhage. These are emergencies — seek urgent care immediately.
WHEN IS A SICK NOTE APPROPRIATE FOR HEADACHE?
A fit note is appropriate when:
● Your headaches are severe enough to genuinely prevent you from working
● You have a medically recognised headache disorder (migraine, cluster headache)
● Your headaches have lasted more than 7 days
● Your work involves screen use, driving, or other activities that significantly worsen your headaches
WHEN TO SEEK URGENT CARE FIRST
Seek emergency care BEFORE contacting Dr Sick if your headache:
● Came on suddenly and is the worst of your life ("thunderclap" headache)
● Is accompanied by fever, stiff neck, or rash
● Is accompanied by sudden vision loss, confusion, or weakness
● Follows a head injury
Get your headache sick note at drsick.co.uk — if it's safe and appropriate to do so.
