Self Help

The sudden onset of severe and persistent headaches is an important clue to serious disease. This would rule out the person with a long history of headaches that have been recurring month after month, year after year. But if someone begins experiencing chronic headaches that increase in frequency and intensity, she should definitely be examined by a physician.

It has been estimated that only 2% of headache sufferers have underlying physical disorders. But because headaches caused by brain tumors can be confused with migraines and other headaches, it is important to see a physician to rule out catastrophic causes.

A brain tumor is just one of several disorders with life-threatening or disabling consequences for which headache are often an initial complaint. The headache associated with a brain tumor usually strikes suddenly and grows progressively worse in a short period of time. At the onset, the brain tumor headache can be mild and easily relieved by analgesics. But it may become increasingly unbearable after changing position, such as standing up after sitting.

You should see a doctor immediately and without delay if you have a headache that comes on suddenly, especially if it feels like the worst headache you have ever had in your life. Other symptoms associated with disease are loss of memory, disorientation, difficulty in making judgments, vision changes, or have seizures accompanying your headaches for the first time. Be sure to tell the doctor who examines you about any numbness or weakness in a hand, arm, or leg, and any speech or memory disorders.

Anyone with a headache problem, especially ones that start suddenly, should be aware of certain symptoms that indicate a need to see a doctor immediately. Such headaches can be identified by the following six danger signals:

1. Headaches that do not fit a recognizable pattern or those that make you feel sick or giving you the feeling that something is just not right.

2. Headaches that interfere with your life and prevent you from pursuing normal activities.

3. Recurrent headaches that start after age fifty or in early childhood. In such cases a thorough investigation is imperative in order to rule out any serious underlying causes.

4. Headaches that start suddenly and rapidly increase in frequency and intensity, when you do not have a long history of headaches. Again, a thorough general examination is indicated.

5. Headaches accompanied by any neurological symptoms such as a temporary loss of or change in vision, motor function, or sensation.

6. Headaches marked by any abnormal physical signs, including heart murmurs, kidney problems, or fever. In addition, stiffness of the neck may indicate an infection or inflammation of the spinal fluid.