In our entire life, we all have suffered a headache many times. Headaches can occur due to various reasons, and it can be a symptom of a common cold, fatigue, flu, lack of proper nutrition, sinusitis, stress, depression, hypertension, etc. Here are a few signals that suggest your headache may be something more complicated.
It comes on suddenly and severely
This type of headache will typically originate suddenly and the pain will peak within 60 seconds and will fade over hours or even weeks. They are regarded as ‘Thunderclap headaches’, and are the “worst headache”. They can be a symptom of life-threatening problems like brain bleeding, sometimes accompanied by vomiting or losing consciousness.
Stiff Neck or High Fever
If someone has a headache supported by a shooting pain, high fever, and a stiff neck, then it’s a clear symptom of meningitis. Meningitis is a disorder caused by the inflammation of certain membranes that cover the brain. It can be fatal as its location is close to the brain. In most cases of meningitis, a headache can be a migraine too.
Vision or Speech Impairment
If the headache is causing changes in your vision, trouble speaking or walking, or weakness on one side of the body, you could be having a stroke. A stroke can occur due to insufficient blood supply to the brain. It is a medical emergency because strokes can lead to death or permanent disability.
Your Behaviour Changes
If someone is suffering from severe headaches and there are changes in the behavioral patterns, then it could be a sign of a brain tumor. A brain tumor is a collection of abnormal cells in the brain. Due to the growth of the tumor, the pressure inside the skull increases. This can lead to brain damage, and it can be life-threatening.
Headaches are Interfering with Daily Life
If someone is suffering from severe headaches, which is making them handicapped and not able to perform their daily chores, then it’s time to visit the doctor. Such headaches can be dangerous and require immediate attention.
