Headache red flags: All of us have experienced headaches; some may be dull and nagging, while others may feel as intense as a drum pounding inside your skull. Usually, headaches are annoying but harmless. A little bit of rest, water and medicine, and you are back to normal. But what if it’s not a regular headache?
First, what is a normal headache?
Before you jump into the danger signs, you need to understand what a typical headache looks like. Tension headaches feel like a tight band around your head. You might have a dull or steady pain. Migraines cause throbbing or pulsing pain, usually on one side of the head. It might come with nausea or vomiting. It can last for a few hours or days. Sinus headaches come with pain around the eyes, nose and cheeks. It is often linked to sinus infections or allergies.
Also Read | Study links poor oral health with body pain, migraines in women
When should you be concerned about your headaches?
Not all headaches are harmless. Sometimes, they can signal a serious underlying health issue, especially if they feel unusual or more intense than what you’ve experienced before.
If you suddenly get the worst headache of your life, or it feels like a sharp thunderclap or an explosion in your head, don’t wait. It could be a warning sign of a brain bleed or another medical emergency. If you feel you have trouble speaking or suddenly forget things, your brain might not be getting enough oxygen. This could be a sign of a stroke.
Headaches that strike hard and swiftly, especially with other concerning symptoms like vision changes, dizziness, confusion, or nausea, should never be ignored.
What will the doctor do?
The doctor will look into your medical history and might even take your blood or spinal fluid samples to check for infection. Once they know what’s causing the headache, they can offer the right treatment.
Can kids have headaches?
While most headaches in kids are harmless, consult an expert if the child complains of a throbbing pain or appears sleepy and confused.
What can you do at home?
For many people, headaches are triggered by everyday issues like dehydration, stress, or too much screen time. Simple remedies such as drinking plenty of water, resting in a quiet, dark room, using a warm or cold compress, and taking over-the-counter pain relief often work effectively.
Also Read | Diabetes drug may ease migraines, even without weight loss
Avoiding bright lights, loud sounds, and giving your eyes regular breaks from screens can also help.
The good news? Most headaches are not dangerous and can be managed with a little care. But if they keep coming back or feel different than usual, it’s smart to check in with a doctor.
