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Pain in any region of the head, ranging from sharp to dull, that may occur with other symptoms. One of the most common health complaints.
There are several possible causes. Here are the most common ones:
The most common type, often described as a tight band around the head.
You might suspect this if you have:
Intense, throbbing headache often with nausea and sensitivity to light.
You might suspect this if you have:
Simple causes that are easily fixed.
You might suspect this if you have:
Caused by inflammation in the sinuses.
You might suspect this if you have:
Caused by taking pain relief too frequently.
You might suspect this if you have:
Important: This information is for general guidance only and should not be used to self-diagnose. A doctor can properly assess your symptoms and provide appropriate advice.
Call 000 or go to Emergency immediately
Headaches are incredibly common and almost always benign, but the clinical skill lies in recognising the rare dangerous headache. The red flags I screen for are: sudden onset 'thunderclap' headache (reaching maximum intensity within seconds — possible subarachnoid haemorrhage), headache with fever and neck stiffness (possible meningitis), headache after head injury, new headache in someone over 50, headache with visual changes or neurological symptoms, and headache that wakes you from sleep. If none of these are present, the headache is almost certainly a tension headache or migraine. Tension headaches feel like a band squeezing around the head. Migraines are typically one-sided, throbbing, and accompanied by nausea or light sensitivity. For chronic headaches, medication overuse is a paradoxically common cause — regular use of painkillers more than 10-15 days per month can create a cycle of rebound headaches.
Medical certificate guidance: Severe headaches — particularly migraines with nausea, visual disturbances, or light sensitivity — legitimately prevent work. Most people need 1-2 days. If headaches are causing frequent absences, discuss preventive treatment with your GP.
All clinical decisions are made by AHPRA-registered doctors following our clinical governance framework. We never automate clinical decisions.
Seek immediate care for sudden severe headaches, headaches with neurological symptoms (confusion, weakness, vision changes), or headaches with fever and stiff neck.
Yes, particularly for migraines or severe headaches that prevent you from working safely. Our doctors understand that some headaches are debilitating.
Migraines are typically throbbing, often on one side, and come with nausea, sensitivity to light/sound, or visual disturbances. They usually last 4-72 hours.
Occasional use is fine, but taking pain relief more than 2-3 days per week can actually cause more headaches. If you're relying on them frequently, see a doctor.
If your symptoms are keeping you from work or study, you can request a medical certificate through InstantMed. A doctor will review your symptoms and issue a certificate if clinically appropriate — typically for 1 to 3 days depending on severity. You don't need to be dramatically unwell; feeling genuinely too rough to function is reason enough.
Yes. Australian-registered doctors can assess your symptoms and issue valid medical certificates via telehealth. You fill in a detailed health questionnaire, a doctor reviews it, and if appropriate, your certificate is delivered digitally. No waiting room required.
You complete a structured health questionnaire covering your symptoms, duration, severity, and relevant medical history. The reviewing doctor uses this information — the same clinical reasoning they'd apply in a face-to-face consult — to determine whether a certificate, advice, or referral is appropriate.
A medical certificate covers the period stated on the document. If your symptoms worsen or don't improve as expected, you should see a GP in person or visit your nearest emergency department if it's urgent. Your certificate doesn't replace ongoing care — it's a point-in-time clinical assessment.
In some cases, yes. If a doctor reviewing your request determines that a common, non-restricted treatment is appropriate, they may issue a prescription as part of a consultation. Not all symptoms require or qualify for a prescription — the doctor will advise you on next steps.
Medical certificates are typically issued in under 30 minutes, available 24/7. Other requests are reviewed within 1–2 hours during operating hours (8am–10pm AEST, 7 days). You'll receive an email notification once your request has been reviewed.
If your symptoms suggest something that requires a physical examination, diagnostic tests, or specialist referral, the doctor will let you know and recommend appropriate next steps. Your safety is the priority — telehealth is a great option for many things, but it's not a replacement for hands-on assessment when that's what's needed.
No Medicare card is required for medical certificates. If you're requesting a prescription or consultation, a valid Medicare card is needed. Our service is private and does not attract a Medicare rebate, though any prescriptions issued can still attract PBS subsidies at the pharmacy.
Pain or stiffness in the neck. Often from posture, strain, or minor injury.
Persistent tiredness or exhaustion that doesn't improve with rest. Can significantly impact work, relationships, and quality of life.
Feeling sick to your stomach, often with an urge to vomit. Can have many causes from mild to serious.
Our Australian-registered doctors can assess your symptoms and provide advice, treatment, or medical certificates if needed.
Speak with a doctorThis information is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your health. Content on this page has been reviewed by AHPRA-registered Australian doctors but does not replace a personalised medical consultation.