Ask the Doctor
Q: I get headaches whenever I use my phone or computer for a long time. Are screens damaging my brain?A: Screens are not known to damage the brain simply through use, but prolonged use can cause eye strain, dry eyes, blurred vision, neck and shoulder tension and headaches. Poor posture, glare and inadequate breaks can worsen symptoms. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look about 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Adjust brightness, reduce glare and blink regularly. Frequent or severe headaches, especially without screen use, need medical evaluation.
Q: Is every headache a migraine?A: No. Headaches can result from stress, tension, dehydration, poor sleep, eye strain, infections, sinus problems, stomach problems or migraine. Migraine may cause throbbing pain, nausea and sensitivity to light or sound, though symptoms vary. A new, unusually severe or rapidly worsening headache, especially with weakness, confusion, fainting, seizures, vision changes, fever or difficulty speaking, needs urgent medical attention.
Q: I have a headache, so I take a painkiller immediately. Is that okay?A: Occasional appropriate use may be fine for some people, but frequent painkiller use can cause medication-overuse headaches and, depending on the medicine, stomach, kidney or liver problems. If you regularly need painkillers for headaches, find the cause rather than repeatedly treating the symptom.Q: Do I really need a flu shot if I usually get only a mild flu?
A: Influenza can be mild but can also cause serious illness, especially in........
