Understanding Headaches – When to Worry and What They Mean

Headaches are only too common. Most of the time, they are not dangerous or a sign of something more serious. But sometimes they are. How can you tell the difference?

Here are some tips to help you in understanding headaches, and knowing when to worry. And if you are in doubt, always call your doctor.

1. Migraines

Experts agree that these types of headaches, while torturous to experience, are not cause for worry. Migraines are characterized by sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, and seeing “auras.” Migraines usually come and go and are experienced on a somewhat regular basis.

2. Dehydration Headaches

Dehydration is not a condition to be ignored, so if you get a headache out of the blue, stop and think of when the last time was that you had a drink of water. It could be that you’re dehydrated. If you’re out in the sun or heat, you have more cause for concern. Rest and drink lots of water as soon as possible.

3. Sinus Headaches

These are annoying and often a sign of infection, but they are not considered dangerous. Sometimes they are accompanied by a stuffy nose and feelings of pressure in the face and head, and cold-like symptoms.

4. Tension Headaches

These headaches are not a cause for worry, although like all headaches, they can sure hurt. Sleep deprivation is a common cause of tension headache. Clenching the teeth can also generate tension in the head and neck area.

5. Brain Tumor Headaches

Interestingly, brain tumors do not always involve a headache. They can, though. If you have a headache that just isn’t characteristic and doesn’t seem to go away, it could be a sign of a tumor at the back or base of the head. It can feel a lot like a tension headache. It’s a good idea to check with your doctor if you just can’t explain a persistent headache.

6. Aneurisms

When blood vessels “inflate” as a weak area, it’s called an aneurism. These certainly do cause sudden, severe headaches, and usually a feeling of weakness in various parts of the body.

Generally speaking, here are some more characteristics of worrisome headaches:

* The headache comes on suddenly
* You develop regular headaches after the age of 50
* You’ve had a recent head injury or “bump” on the head
* The headache is accompanied by other mental or psychological symptoms, such as confusion
* Dilate pupils with a headache can mean a concussion
* You have experienced headaches off and on before, but now the pattern has changed.

Most of the time, a headache is not a problem. But if you’re in doubt, call a doctor. It could be something to worry about.