Headaches you do not ignore

The headaches described in this blog are not headaches that people see a chiropractor for. We are trained to know about them and we felt that this information is valuable to share with you. If you feel that some of these symptoms are present, please DO NOT self diagnose.  Seek immediate medical attention, as these are 5 headaches you do not ignore. They may be a medical emergency.

1. ‘Thunderclap’ headache

This headache can be described as the worst headache ever. Requires immediate medical attention.

These are some of the symptoms:

  • Sudden onset and severe
  • Worse after 60 seconds and lasts about 5minutes
  • Nausea and vomiting at times
  • Fever and altered mental state may be present

Some causes:

  • Brain bleed (burst aneurysm)
  • Blood clot in brain
  • Stroke
  • Infection

2. Concussion – Headache after an injury or knock to the head

Accidents from sporting incidents, falls or fights can cause concussion headaches. The brain is soft and often described as being the consistency of thick custard. Knocks to the head can cause bruising of the brain.

Here are some of the symptoms to watch out for:

  • Headache
  • Confusion
  • Coordination problems
  • Short term memory loss
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Dizziness
  • Sleepiness and excessive fatigue

Symptoms may be present days after the concussion, such as sleep disturbances and concentration issues. If concussion is suspected, then seek medical attention.

3. Headache that is getting progressively worse

When headaches that are out of character, get progressively worse, then keep an eye out for other signs and symptoms of stroke.

Here are some other symptoms:

  • Dropped face on one side (droopy mouth and eye)
  • Can’t lift one or both arms
  • Slurred or garbled speech
  • Weakness on one side of body

What to do? Act F.A.S.T.

  1. Face — Has their face or mouth dropped? 
  2. Arms — Can they lift both arms?
  3. Speech — Is their speech slurred? Can they understand you?
  4. Time is critical — If you see any of these signs, call triple zero (000)

 4. Headache associated with a stiff neck and fever – Meningitis?

Parents and caregivers need to be aware of this with babies and children, especially if a rash is present. Meningitis can be bacterial or viral and it affects the membranes around the brain and the spinal cord. This membrane swelling can trigger:

  • neck stiffness
  • headache
  • nausea, vomiting
  • seizures

Meningitis can be difficult to diagnose because it mimics other infections. Seek medical attention if you have concerns.

5.  Unusual headaches for headache sufferers

Any headache that are sudden in onset, severe and associated with other signs and symptoms need further investigation. People who suffer from their ‘ordinary’ headaches, can develop other conditions that cause headaches. Don’t ignore any changes in the headache patterns, anything out of character should not be ignored.

This blog is not to get you diagnosing potentially serious headaches, but to make you more aware of these 5 headaches you do not ignore. Getting medical help when required can help to get the best result.

Any questions, please email info@errolstchiro.com.au us or call 9329 1118.

In our last blog we went through 3 causes of headaches often missed. CLICK HERE to find out more. CLICK HERE if you need 5 top tips to ensure your home office set up is ideal.

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