A patient presents with a throbbing headache and stiff neck. What should you advise?

The symptoms described—throbbing headache and stiff neck—can be indicative of several serious conditions, including meningitis or another neurological issue. Given the potential severity associated with these symptoms, advising the patient to seek immediate medical attention is the most appropriate response. This ensures that the patient receives a thorough evaluation and necessary treatment as quickly as possible to prevent complications.

The urgency of seeking medical attention is critical because conditions like meningitis can deteriorate rapidly and pose significant health risks. Encouraging the patient to wait and see if the symptoms improve, providing over-the-counter pain relief, or recommending rest and hydration might delay essential care, which could be detrimental in this situation. Immediate evaluation by a healthcare professional allows for necessary diagnostic testing and treatment to be initiated without delay.