You could argue that the brain is the most important part of the body. Without a functioning brain, the rest of the body shuts down. For that reason, headaches aren’t something you should simply ignore. Instead, they can be the first signs of a serious brain injury.
Or, headaches could simply be the temporarily swelling of the brain, in which case they pose little threat to your health. Keep reading to determine if a headache is simply a headache – or if it’s something more serious.
Severe, sudden pain: If a headache starts suddenly and instantly becomes painful, then it could be the sign of a serious problem. Harmless headaches tend to build up gradually over a longer period of time, and if head pain strikes suddenly to a serious degree, then it could be the first signs of a serious problem.
Chronic headaches that begin later in life: If you’re over the age of 50, then the sudden onset of headaches can be the sign of a serious problem. At this age, headaches can be linked with problems like tumors, internal bleeding, aneurisms, and dozens of other conditions.
Visual changes and dizziness: A normal headache doesn’t result in dizziness or visual changes. If your headaches are causing you to experience blurry vision or feelings of disorientation, then it could be the sign of a more serious problem.
Headaches accompanied by fevers: If your headache is accompanied by fever or other signs of serious illness, then your body might be warning you of a serious problem. Watch out for weight loss symptoms, sleepiness, hallucinations, and other warning signs.
A deviation from normal migraine symptoms: If you suffer from migraines on a regular basis, then you’re probably familiar with the symptoms of migraine pain. ‘Normal’ migraine symptoms include:
-Intense, throbbing pain in the temple area
-Pain on one side or both sides of the head, with pain often switching sides between migraine headaches
-Pain that is aggravated by daily activities, like exercise
-Nausea, cold hands, cold feet, and vomiting
If you’re experiencing migraine pains that have more than the symptoms listed above, then it’s a good idea to visit a doctor. Those who regularly experience migraine pain might not notice when a headache becomes more serious, or they might simply think it’s a natural progression. In any case, you should visit a doctor.
Headaches that always occur in the same part of the head: If your headaches constantly occur in a specific part of the head – like the left or right side – then it could be the early warning signs of a brain tumor or other serious problem.
When to visit a doctor or urgent care clinic
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, then visit a doctor as soon as possible. A doctor will be able to recommend the best course of action for your illness – as well as any further scans that may be required.
The safest way to handle headaches is to visit a doctor whenever you’re experiencing abnormal pain in your head. The brain is the most complex part of the body, and even minor pain symptoms could be the sign of a dangerous problem.
If you want to talk to friendly, reliable doctors that can treat you as soon as possible, drop by a WellStreet location today! WellStreet offers the most convenient urgent care Atlanta services in the city.
