While most headaches are minor, some warn of a serious problem. Here's when to worry about a headache.
By Mayo Clinic Staff
Most headaches are minor, and you can treat them with a pain reliever. Some headaches, however, signal a dangerous or serious medical problem. Don't ignore unexplained headaches or headaches that steadily worsen.
Get immediate medical attention if your headache:
- Develops suddenly and severely
- Progressively worsens over the course of a single day or persists for several days
- Causes mental confusion or loss of consciousness
Immediate medical attention is also needed if your headache is accompanied by:
- Seizures, dizziness or loss of balance
- Weakness or paralysis, such as in the arms or legs
- Numbness
- Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
- A reddened eye
Also seek medical attention if your headache:
- Is accompanied by fever, stiff neck or rash
- Is accompanied by changes in vision, such as blurring or seeing halos around lights
- Is severe and follows a recent sore throat or respiratory infection
- Begins or worsens after a head injury, fall or bump
- Is triggered by changing the position of your head, coughing, sneezing, bending or physical activity
- Is a different type of headache from your usual type and you're older than 50
Dec. 01, 2020
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