Headaches are one of the most common health complaints. Many people ignore them, thinking they are caused by stress, lack of sleep, skipping meals, or long hours in front of screens. Often, a glass of water or a painkiller seems enough. However, experts warn that while most headaches are harmless, some can signal serious health problems like stroke, brain bleed, or dangerously high blood pressure.
Dr Prof. Suryanarayana Sharma P M, Senior Consultant Neurologist and Stroke Specialist at Apollo Hospitals, Bengaluru, says India faces a huge burden of headaches every year. Millions of adults suffer from tension headaches or migraines, but a smaller number experience headaches that indicate severe neurological problems. Understanding which headaches are routine and which are dangerous can save lives.
Headache disorders affect over 67% of Indian adults annually, with tension-type headaches and migraines being the most common. On any given day, about 1 in 8 adults has some form of head pain. Surveys show that women and people living in rural areas are even more affected.
Not all headaches are dangerous. The most common types include:
Tension headaches – A dull, pressing pain around both sides of the head. These are usually caused by stress, poor posture, long hours at a desk, or eye strain. They can last from half an hour to several hours.
Migraines – Usually one-sided, throbbing headaches accompanied by nausea, sensitivity to light or sound, and sometimes visual disturbances called “aura.” Migraine attacks may last from 4 to 72 hours and often disrupt daily life.
Cluster headaches – Intense pain around one eye, often with tearing or nasal congestion. They occur in short repeated bursts and can be very disabling, but are usually not life-threatening.
While most headaches are manageable, some need urgent medical attention. Doctors advise seeking help immediately if you experience any of the following:
A sudden, severe “thunderclap” headache
Weakness, numbness, facial droop, or slurred speech
Vision changes, confusion, or difficulty walking
Headache with fever, rash, or stiff neck
Headache after a head injury
Persistent morning headaches
New headaches after age 50
Headaches triggered by physical activity or high blood pressure
Headache during pregnancy with swelling or elevated blood pressure
These “red-flag” symptoms can indicate serious conditions like stroke, brain bleed, or high blood pressure emergencies. Prompt medical evaluation can prevent severe complications.
If your headaches are worsening, frequent, or more intense than usual, it’s time to see a doctor. A neurological evaluation becomes essential if:
Headaches are happening more often
Pain is stronger than before
You rely on painkillers several days a week
The pattern of your headaches has changed
Over-the-counter medicines are no longer effective
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Doctors recommend keeping a headache diary, noting the time, triggers, symptoms, intensity, and any medication used. This helps in identifying the type of headache and the underlying cause.
Lifestyle changes can also help reduce headache frequency and intensity. Some important tips include:
Staying hydrated and drinking plenty of water
Getting regular, adequate sleep
Maintaining proper posture, especially when working long hours
Managing stress through relaxation exercises, meditation, or yoga
Limiting caffeine and alcohol intake
Even though headaches are common, they are not always harmless. Understanding when a headache is routine and when it is a warning sign is critical. Most headaches can be managed with lifestyle adjustments and medications, but red-flag headaches demand immediate medical attention. Listening to your body and acting early can prevent serious problems, as the brain rarely gives a second chance.
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