A headache lasting a week warrants a professional medical evaluation to find the underlying cause. For temporary relief, you can try over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, following the package instructions. However, because this has been ongoing, please consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and to avoid medication-overuse headaches from daily use. If your headache is accompanied by a sudden, severe onset, fever, stiff neck, confusion, vision changes, or weakness, please seek immediate emergency care. Otherwise, try resting in a quiet, dark room and staying well-hydrated while you schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider.

For temporary relief from dental pain, over-the-counter pain relievers can help. Ibuprofen is highly effective for dental pain as it targets inflammation. If you cannot take ibuprofen due to health conditions, paracetamol is a suitable alternative. Please follow the dosage instructions on the package carefully. Keep in mind that these tablets only temporarily mask the discomfort. The decayed tooth and the uncapped root canal tooth need professional attention to address the underlying issues, such as deep decay or potential infection, and to prevent further damage. I highly recommend scheduling an appointment with your dentist soon for a proper evaluation and permanent solution.

The most effective medication depends on the type of headache you are experiencing. For common tension headaches, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen, naproxen, or acetaminophen are highly effective. If you are dealing with migraines, prescription medications called triptans, such as sumatriptan, are often the most effective targeted treatment. It is important to avoid overusing these medications, as taking them too frequently can actually cause rebound headaches. If your headaches are frequent, severe, or new, I recommend consulting a doctor to safely find the best tailored treatment plan for you.