DOCTOR LISTS HEADACHE SYMPTOMS THAT COULD INDICATE SERIOUS HEALTH CONDITIONS

Headache Symptoms That Indicate Health Problems: Headaches are a common health issue that affects millions of people worldwide and while many of them are benign, some can signal more serious underlying conditions. When it comes to headaches, it is important to differentiate between the ordinary, tension-related headaches that can occur due to stress, lack of sleep or dehydration and those that may indicate a more severe health issue such as a stroke, brain tumour or aneurysm. The vast range of headache types, intensity levels and accompanying symptoms can be quite confusing, especially for those who experience frequent or unusual headache patterns. 

Headaches are normal, mostly harmless and often arise due to stress, dehydration or minor illnesses. However, a select few headache symptoms can signal serious underlying health concerns that require immediate medical attention. Knowing when to take action may offer you the opportunity for timely medical support.

In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Vinit Banga, Director-Neurology & Head neurointervention, Fortis Hospital, Faridabad listed symptoms of headaches that indicate certain health conditions. 

Symptoms Of Headaches Indicating Health Problems

Sudden and Intense Pain

A ‘thunderclap headache’ is an extremely painful headache that can be a sign of a serious condition like a brain aneurysm, stroke or subarachnoid haemorrhage. This kind of headache generally reaches maximal intensity within seconds and must be considered a medical emergency.

Headache Accompanied by Neurological Symptoms

A headache accompanied by neurological symptoms, for example, confusion, trouble speaking, blurred vision, or weakness on one side of the body is likely due to stroke, brain tumour or encephalitis. These symptoms require immediate evaluation.

Headache That Lasts or Becomes Progressively Worse

Such a headache that lasts unusually long or gets progressively worse as the days or weeks pass may indicate some underlying problem such as a brain tumour, infection or chronic conditions including migraines or cluster headaches.

Post-Traumatic Headaches

Headache Symptoms To Never Ignore (Image Credits: Canva)

Headache following any head injury, however minor, may indicate concussion or traumatic brain injury. Any of the following symptoms present: dizziness, nausea and photophobia, require seeking medical attention to rule out serious complications.

Headaches with Fever and Stiff Neck

A very severe headache that accompanies a stiff neck and fever may mean meningitis, a likely deadly infection of the lining of the brain and spinal cord. Early diagnosis and treatment are of the essence in such cases.

New Headaches After Age 50

Headache developing after age 50 and being severe or accompanied by visual changes or jaw pain may point toward temporal arteritis, capable of causing vision loss or stroke if left untreated.

Headache with Sensory Change

A headache with additional symptoms such as numbness, smarting feelings or the sensation of heat or cold in certain skin areas should suggest the importance of attending medical facilities.

When in Doubt

Though not all headaches are a cause for concern, no headache should be neglected if it feels strange, excessively intense or persistent in nature. Keeping a diary of how many times headaches occur, how strong they are and accompanying symptoms will help the healthcare provider in diagnosis of the cause. Seek an evaluation from a qualified healthcare professional if in doubt; it could save lives.

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2025-01-14T11:39:17Z