Podcast: Headache – When To Act?
Headache is a very common symptom worldwide and almost everyone has experienced it at some stage of their lives. Since headache is a common, people gets easily worried if it is due to some sinister cause. In this post, we have tried to guide when to take headache seriously and seek medical attention.
Are all headaches serious?
No, the vast majority of headaches are not serious.
However, it’s very important to be aware of certain warning signs, as identifying them early can sometimes save lives.
What are the most important warning signs or 'red flags' that might indicate a serious headache?
You should be particularly concerned and seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:
• Your first and worst headache ever.
• A “thunderclap headache,” which is a very sudden and extremely severe headache.
• A headache on one side of your head accompanied by pain in the eye on the same side.
• A headache that occurs on one side of your head along with other symptoms on that same side of your body.
• A headache that starts or gets worse when you cough or sneeze.
• A headache that is worse in the morning or when you bend forward.
• A persisting headache with tenderness in your scalp (especially over the temples) if you are over 50 years old.
• A headache accompanied by fever or a stiff neck.
• A change in the usual pattern of your headaches.
• Decreased level of consciousness (meaning you become less alert or responsive)
Are there any specific personal circumstances or recent events that could make a headache more concerning?
Yes, there are two vital questions to consider:
• Where have you been? If you’ve recently traveled, especially to certain regions, a headache could be a symptom of conditions like Malaria.
• Might you be pregnant? For pregnant individuals, a severe headache can be a sign of Pre-eclampsia, particularly if you also have protein in your urine and elevated blood pressure.
What should I do if I have a severe headache, especially with any of the warning signs mentioned?
You should always seek medical attention if you are experiencing a severe headache. It’s crucial for a doctor to examine you, as subtle abnormalities can be important and should not be missed. Early diagnosis for some conditions can be life-saving. If you notice any of the “red flag” symptoms listed above, it’s especially important to see a doctor immediately.
Can a headache be serious even if there are no obvious signs during a physical examination?
Yes, it’s possible. Some serious conditions, like a subarachnoid hemorrhage, might not always show obvious signs during an initial examination. This is why a thorough medical evaluation by a healthcare professional is important, particularly with severe headaches.
What if I have a painful red eye along with a headache?
If you experience a painful red eye along with a headache, you should get your eye pressures checked urgently. This combination of symptoms could be a sign of acute glaucoma
What are some common types of headaches that are usually not serious?
Many headaches are generally not serious and can include types such as tension headaches, migraines, cluster headaches, or those that are post-traumatic. Headaches can also be caused by certain drugs (like nitrates or calcium-channel antagonists) or conditions like carbon monoxide poisoning or a lack of oxygen.
Take Home Message
Every headache is not serious and all you need is a simple pain killer. However, if you experience ‘Red Flag’ symptoms as mentioned above, do not delay in seeking medical attention.