Nearly everyone experiences headaches from time to time, but it is often difficult to tell when a headache is serious enough to require medical attention. Occasional headaches can be normal, but some headaches can be indicators of more serious health problems which require treatment. This simple list of headache warning signs, courtesy of womenshealth.gov, can help determine when headaches warrant consulting a doctor.
- Headaches occur multiple times each month and persist for hours or days
- Headaches are so severe that work, school, and/or home life are affected
- Headaches accompanied by tingling or numbness, changes in vision, vomiting, or nausea
- Headaches accompanied by pain surrounding the ear or eye, convulsions or stiffness in the neck
- Losing consciousness or feeling confused during headaches
- A headache which follows and injury to the head
- Headaches that suddenly occur when you’ve rarely had headaches in the past
By keeping track of your headaches and checking them against these warning signs, you can help ensure that your head and body get the attention that they need.