WWHAM questions

Who is it for? Bear in mind that it may not be the customer who needs the treatment.

What are the symptoms? Ask the customer to describe the headache and whether they have any other symptoms, such as visual disturbances. Headaches with a rash, stiff neck or vomiting €“ especially in children €“ should be referred to the pharmacist.

How long have the symptoms been present? You need to find out if the customer has had this type of headache before and if they have any idea what may have triggered it.

Action already taken? This will help to establish what they have already tried so that you can recommend a different active ingredient or format if necessary. The possibility of medication overuse headache may be established at this stage.

Medication? It is important to refer customers who are taking other medication, especially for long-term conditions, to the pharmacist.

When to refer to the pharmacist:

• Sudden, severe, frequent or cluster headaches
• Headaches following a head injury
• Headaches with slurred speech or confusion
• Headaches in children, especially with a rash, stiff neck or vomiting
• Migraine-type headache for the first time.