Written question asked by John Leech (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 14 December 2010, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 16 December 2010. It was answered by Paul Burstow (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 17 January 2011 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Headaches

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions if he will take steps to reduce the number of working days lost due to headaches and migraines.

Answer: I have been asked to reply.Most headaches are harmless and can be relieved with self-help measures and pharmacy painkillers. Only a few (around 5%) are a sign that something is seriously wrong. These more serious headaches are often accompanied by other warning signs.The key to reducing the number of working days lost to headaches and migraines is ensuring that patients are able to access help and support from a general practitioner, or migraine clinic, to effectively manage their condition.

Secondary information