Just like any other disease, headaches also exist on a spectrum. Depending on the cause of the headache, The point of your head that pains, frequency, and severity, all these factors can vary depending on the cause that triggers your headache.
While headaches can be managed in most cases, either through home remedies, over-the-counter pills, lifestyle adjustments, or a trip to a general physician, some headaches are a sign of something sinister brewing underneath which needs a thorough inspection by a neurologist.
To know the right time to see a neurologist about a headache, the Onlymyhealth team spoke to Dr Deepak Yadav, Consultant, Neurology, Amrita Hospital, Faridabad.
Types Of Headaches That Require A Visit To The Neurologist
Headache can be of many types, some mild and some severe, causing your head to throb unbearably. Dr Yadav listed six types of headaches that cause severe pain and need to be looked at by a neurologist:
- Chronic Migraine: Frequent migraines, particularly if they occur 15 or more days a month.
- Cluster Headaches: Cluster headaches are intense headaches that happen in recurring patterns or clusters.
- Hemiplegic Migraine: Migraines accompanied by temporary paralysis or motor weakness.
- Refractory Headaches: Persistent headaches that do not respond to standard treatments.
- New Daily Persistent Headache: Sudden onset of daily headaches that persist for over three months.
- Secondary Headaches: Headaches caused by an underlying medical condition, such as a tumour, infection, or injury.
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Warning Signs That You Should See A Neurologist For Your Headache
Dr Yadav listed a few signs that are a cause for alarm. If you notice any of these signs when experiencing a serious case of a headache:
- A sudden, severe headache often described as the worst headache of your life.
- Headache with neurological symptoms like weakness, numbness, speech difficulties, or vision changes.
- Headache following a head injury, particularly if symptoms worsen.
- Persistent or worsening headache despite treatment.
- Headache with systemic symptoms like fever, weight loss, stiff neck, or rash.
- Severe headache in patients over 50 especially with a history of cancer or immunosuppression.
- Headache with a change in your mental state like confusion, seizures, or loss of consciousness.
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How To Manage A Severe Headache
When seeking a neurological examination for your headache, it can take some time before you make an appointment, get a diagnosis, and begin treatment. Till then, Dr Yadav listed some steps that can help you get some relief:
- Over-the-Counter Medications: Pain relievers such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or aspirin.
- Prescription Medications: As advised by a primary care physician.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Regular sleep, hydration, a balanced diet, and avoiding known headache triggers.
- Stress Management: Methods such as relaxation exercises, meditation, or yoga.
- Cold or Warm Compresses: Applying them to the head or neck can help alleviate pain.
- Staying Active: Regular physical activity can help reduce the frequency and severity of headaches.
Also Read: Expert Shares Risk Factors For Rare, Common, Chronic Headaches That Cause Dizziness
Timely intervention can be the line between life and death. That is why it is important to seek a neurologist if you notice any warning signs accompanying your headache. Dr Yadav concluded that you should also keep a headache diary to track your headache frequency, duration, intensity, and potential triggers to discuss with the neurologist.