Generally, headaches are caused by hangovers, tension, or even sinus problems during weather changes. Migraines, of course, have varied triggers, and are debilitating. However, when headaches come on suddenly and are debilitating – or if they are accompanied by other signs that give you cause for concern, take note. There is a slight possibility that there is something more going on that you should get checked out.
It is easy for us as migraine or headache sufferers to just “go about our daily business” without paying too much attention to changes in our headache patterns, but I want to share with you how to recognize five different symptoms that could be more than just headaches and migraine. Be aware of any changes in your normal patterns so that you can seek additional help should you need to do so.
Migraines With Aura: Migraines, as you know, are different from regular headaches because they are usually much more severe, and are often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and severe sensitivity to light and sound. Some migraine sufferers experience auras (a visual sensation that can come in the form of shimmering lights, shapes, etc.) before, during, or after the migraines.
Tip: Since studies have shown that people who experience auras with their migraines double the risk of stroke, it would be beneficial to cut back on smoking and other stroke risk factors.
“Thunderclap Headaches” This is a headache we don’t hear so much about. This type of headache typically involves an intense sudden, pain that peaks within 60 seconds, and fades over hours or even weeks. People have described a “thunderclap headache” as being the “worst headache of my life” and in some cases can be a symptom of life-threatening problems like brain bleeding. They can be accompanied by vomiting or loss of consciousness, and can be caused by a lack of blood supply in the pituitary gland, blood clots, or a tear in an artery that leads to the brain.
Since this is a more unusual and extreme type of headache, if you experience this type of headache, it is advisable to seek immediate medical help.
Meningitis: If you experience a headache which is accompanied by a stiff neck and muscle pain, as well as fever, vomiting, rashes and light sensitivity, you may be suffering from meningitis — a viral or bacterial infection of the meninges, or membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Again, this is the type of headache for which you should seek immediate medical attention.
Brain Tumor Headache: Although rare, some headaches are actually caused by brain tumors. According to the American Brain Tumor Association (ABTA), headaches stemming from brain tumors are often persistent and do not respond to normal-type headache remedies, such as rest or medication. This type of headache can often be worse after waking up in the morning, and can be accompanied by vomiting or other neurological symptoms. Since brain tumors can be diagnosed by an MRI, you should seek medical treatment to rule this out.
Headaches Caused By Injury: If you have received a blow to the head followed by headaches, this be a sign of a concussion which can be damaging over the long-term. After a traumatic-type brain injury, headaches can occur as a result of small pools of blood or fluid being present in the skull. These types of headaches are characterized by dull or throbbing sensations, nausea/vomiting, and even auras. Again, after injury, it is always wise to seek out help from your doctor.
Although these are not very common events or causes of your headache/migraine, if you do have any questions or concerns regarding your headaches, I would strongly suggest that you seek medical help.