Headaches are very common. They can be caused by a variety of reasons including eye or neck strain, stress, strong smells, bright lights, infections, or high blood pressure.
Typically, headaches are not indicative of a life-threatening emergency. However, there are times when our bodies are trying to alert us to a problem requiring urgent medical attention.
Here are a few warning signs:
- A sudden or very intense headache
- Changes in headache patterns
- Headaches following head injury
- Headaches that begin to occur regularly in those over the age of 50
- Headaches accompanied by speech and vision changes
- Headaches accompanied by a stiff neck and fever
- Headaches accompanied by redness and pain in the eyes
- Headaches accompanied by changes in behavior
- Headaches with nausea and vomiting
- Headaches that interrupt sleep
- Headaches that begin after sneezing, coughing or straining the body
- Headaches that worsen with movement
- Headaches that prevent normal day-to-day activities
- Headaches persisting for more than 24 hours
These tell-tale symptoms should not be ignored as they are often associated with serious health conditions such as brain tumors, stroke, hemorrhaging, concussions, meningitis, or hypertensive crisis. See a doctor right away for immediate medical intervention as timely treatment can prevent further complications.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.