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Dangerous headaches and how to recognise them

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Dangerous headaches and how to recognise them
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Typically, headaches or migraines do not pose any risk to your health. For example, acute headaches come and go very quickly. A headache can be triggered by many different factors such as pollution, medication or over-consumption of alcohol. However, certain headaches can be dangerous and require immediate medical attention. Here is a list of dangerous headaches, which require that you consult a doctor. 

1. A “crash of thunder” effect

These headaches, frequent and serious, can appear rapidly. They could be caused by a cerebral haemorrhage following a stroke, a head injury or an aneurysm.

2. Following an injury

If you have a headache after a head injury, you should consult a doctor, because such pain could indicate a concussion. Even a minor head injury could cause bleeding in the brain, often followed by headaches.

3. During exercise or physical effort

If even after taking medication, the headaches get worse while walking or taking physical exercise, consult a doctor as a matter of urgency. Such headaches can be accompanied by vomiting, and may be the sign of a brain tumour.

4. While lying down

If you are lying down and you have a pain in  your head and in the upper part of the neck, with a stiff neck, an intolerance to light, vomiting and confusion, consult a doctor immediately. In fact, such headaches indicate an internal haemorrhage caused by a brain aneurysm.

5. Sudden and intense pain

Sudden and intense headaches, accompanied by weakness in the arms, legs and face, a numbness of one side of the body, a loss of balance, difficulty speaking, walking or seeing (affecting one or both eyes), could be signs of a heart attack or a stroke. This requires immediate medical attention and you should go directly to the emergency department.

6. Other unusual headaches

Outside of the specific headaches mentioned above, it is recommended that you consult a doctor if you suffer from any of the following unusual headaches:

• Frequent headaches if you are over 50

• Headaches that change in intensity, localisation and frequency

• Headaches that get worse over time

• Visual and speaking difficulties

• Headaches after sport or sex

• Very intense headaches

• Loss of balance, loss of memory, confusion and inability to easily move the extremities

• Headaches followed by fever, vomiting and nausea

• Headaches following shortness of breath

• Headaches and convulsions

Sources : ActuriusSanté Plus Mag