Headache: 4 signs that indicate medical emergency

Here's when you should not self-medicate for a headache but consult your doctor at the earliest.

A headache affects 1 in every 5 Indians causing considerable discomfort. It not only impairs the quality of life but also adversely affects the involvement at work, home and at the societal level. A headache is often linked to vertigo and vice versa and mostly both of these conditions have common triggers. Seen in 14.7% of Indians, headache in 20% of the cases could be a sign of underlying neurological diseases. It is often seen that people with vertigo or a headache self-medicate and visit a number of non-expert doctors and complicate their disease before reaching the specialists. In most cases, an early and proper diagnosis is crucial in defining the cause and the course of treatment. Dr Pawan Ojha, Neurologist, Head, Headache & Vertigo Clinic and Dr Orpha Kalel, ENT Specialist and Surgeon, Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi shares inputs on when does a headache indicate a medical emergency. Also read about headache in children types, causes, symptoms, treatment and prevention.

According to our expert, you should visit your doctor immediately or go to the emergency room if you have any of the following signs and symptoms, which may indicate a more serious medical problem.

1. If you feel an abrupt but a severe headache like a thunderclap, then it is a sign that you have to consult a doctor and get it treated as it could indicate a serious medical condition. Here are 7 reasons for you could be suffering from a headache.

2. If you suffer from a headache along with other common symptoms such as fever, stiff neck, mental confusion, seizures, double vision, weakness, numbness or trouble speaking, then do visit your doctor at the earliest.

3. If you have had a recent head injury and had a headache after that incident or if your headache gets worse after a head injury, then it is a sign of concern that requires urgent clinical attention.

4. If you have a chronic headache which gets worse after coughing or on exertion, straining or a sudden movement, then you should consider consulting a doctor to know the underlying cause of a headache.

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