THIS type of headache could be a warning sign, a US doc warns |
What may seem like a regular headache could sometimes mean more. More serious, and in some cases, life-threatening. Most people dismiss headaches, thinking they’re nothing. It’s not just an inconvenience; sometimes it could be a warning sign of something more serious in your body. Ignoring this could mean the difference between life and death. Dr. Myro Figura, an anesthesiologist based in Los Angeles, California, explains how some headaches could be signs of chronic illnesses. Take a look.
Never ignore headaches
Dr. Figura recently shared a video of a woman who talks about how a headache landed her husband in the hospital. “My husband complained of headaches every day, thinking he just had ‘stress headaches or migraines. Instead, a 7.6cm brain cancer tumor,” the woman said.
Headaches are one of the crucial signs of a brain tumor. Such headaches are often more severe in the morning or wake you up at night. These headaches are often accompanied by seizures, difficulty in thinking or speaking, vision or hearing issues, and dizziness, among others. Most of these symptoms often go unnoticed, resulting in delayed diagnosis.
4 red flags linked with headaches
While most people get headaches once in a while, being aware of when to consult a doctor is important. Dr. Figura shared four red flags one should know.
- Sudden worst headache of your life: The US doctor emphasizes that such headaches should not be dismissed at all. He explained that it is a ‘classic for a ruptured aneurysm’. “Go to the hospital immediately,” he said.
- New headaches after 50: If you are in your 50s and suddenly you get headaches every now and then, do not ignore them. The doctor emphasized that it is not normal, and one should get it checked. It is often accompanied by “neurological changes like loss of balance, changes in vision, and inability to find words. The hospital is where you go.
- Morning headaches or worsening while lying down: The doctor emphasized that morning headaches are a cause for concern. If your headache gets worse while lying down it is a red flag. “Those often mean increased pressure inside of your skul,l such as that from a cyst or a tumor,” the doctor said.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you experience persistent or severe headaches or any of the warning signs mentioned, consult a licensed healthcare provider immediately. Do not ignore medical symptoms or delay seeking professional care based on this information.
