By definition, chronic daily headaches occur 15 days or more a month, for longer than three months. True (primary) chronic daily headaches aren’t caused by another condition.

There are short-lasting and long-lasting chronic daily headaches. Long-lasting headaches last more than four hours. They include:

When to see a doctor

Occasional headaches are common, and usually require no medical attention. However, consult your doctor if:

• You usually have two or more headaches a week
• You take a pain reliever for your headaches most days
• You need more than the recommended dose of over-the-counter pain remedies to relieve your headaches
• Your headache pattern changes or your headaches worsen
• Your headaches are disabling

Seek prompt medical care if your headache:

• Is sudden and severe
• Accompanies a fever, stiff neck, confusion, seizure, double vision, weakness, numbness or difficulty speaking
• Follows a head injury
• Gets worse despite rest and pain medication