Saturday, 31 August 2013
Headache, when to see your Doctor
Headaches, unfortunately, are fairly common — the throbbing head pain, the shooting neck pain, and other headache symptoms. Headaches can strike at any time, in any place, in just about any person.
Headaches are so common, in fact, that as long as the pain goes away in a day or so, most of us probably don’t worry too much about it. But what if the pain doesn’t go away? Or what if you experience additional symptoms or sickness with your headache?
A sudden, severe headache or head pain that occurs with other signs of injury can be a symptom of a more serious medical condition. So how can you tell when a headache is just a headache — or when you should seek medical care?
Headache warning signs
It’s not always easy to know when to consult a doctor about a headache. But there are some definite warning signs that signal that a headache may be more serious. If you experience any of the following symptoms with a headache, call a doctor or seek other immediate medical attention.
Stiff neck and fever
Some headaches, such as tension headache, can be accompanied by neck pain. But if you experience a sudden, severe headache along with a very stiff neck and a fever with your headache and/or sensitivity to light, it could be a sign of a serious infection that requires medical attention.
Numbness or weakness
If you experience any numbness or weakness with your headache, including slurred speech, difficulty speaking, or difficulty walking, this could be symptomatic of a more serious condition. Speak with your doctor about whether additional treatment is needed.
Altered vision
If you experience double or blurred vision or partial loss of vision, consult your doctor.
Confusion, convulsions, or loss of consciousness
When paired with a headache, confusion, convulsions, or loss of consciousness are all warning signs of serious illness or injury. These may occur with the onset of head pain or after you’ve been experiencing a headache for some time. Either way, you should seek immediate medical attention.
Head injury
Any time a head injury results in a headache, consult a doctor right away. Head pain following a head trauma could be a sign of damage that requires treatment from a healthcare professional.
Sudden onset of pain, pain that won’t go away, or pain that’s worse than you’ve felt beforeIt’s important to monitor each headache to try to tell if it’s different, or worse, than any headache you’ve previously experienced. Symptoms like sudden onset of head pain, a headache that won’t go away, or a headache that brings more severe pain than past headaches could be warning signs of a serious condition.
If you have any questions or concerns about your headaches — or if you're wondering whether you could have a more serious condition — talk to your doctor. They are the best people to diagnose your head pain and provide any necessary treatment.
Dr Tango is Consultant Physician with facts and Figures Email- caremed001@gmail.com Blackberry Pin - 74282d21.Follow us on twitter @Care_Med
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Sever headache that comes with being extreamly nausea,could that also be serious?
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