Is a sudden severe headache a sign of a brain tumor? Neurosurgeon’s advice

Headaches are a common problem in our daily lives. In most cases, they are caused by dehydration, stress, or lack of sleep and subside within a few hours. But sometimes a headache can be the first warning sign of a serious illness like a brain hemorrhage or brain tumor. Recently, an American neurosurgeon explained in a viral post on social media when a headache indicates danger and it is important to seek medical advice immediately if any symptoms appear.

The neurosurgeon said that there is no need to worry about a common headache, but some special symptoms can indicate a dangerous situation. According to him, two warning signs should never be ignored. These are:

Sudden severe 'thunderclap' headache
Longer-lasting headache than usual
A thunderclap headache is a type of pain that strikes suddenly with great force, like a lightning strike. This pain can sometimes be a sign of a ruptured blood vessel or serious bleeding in the brain. If left untreated, it can lead to long-term disability, coma, or death.

Experts say that most headaches are harmless, but if the pain—

increases upon waking

does not improve with simple painkillers

comes with nausea, blurred vision, or weakness

gets progressively worse

then it could be a sign of a brain tumor. If the pattern of your regular headaches suddenly changes or if a new type of pain persists for a long time, you should seek medical attention immediately.

Neck manipulation risks: Neurosurgeons also warn about forceful neck manipulation. Chiropractors often use the method to relieve pain. He says that there can be many dangers when you twist your neck forcefully or forcefully. Neck manipulation carries the risk of rupturing a blood vessel called the vertebral artery, which supplies oxygen to the brainstem, an important part of the brain. A ruptured blood vessel can cause a serious stroke or life-threatening condition.

The importance of sleep in controlling headaches

The neurosurgeon emphasizes that adequate sleep is one of the main conditions for keeping the brain healthy. Long-term sleep deprivation increases the risk of memory loss, mood problems, weakened immunity and even long-term neurological damage.
Adults are advised to get 7-9 hours of good sleep every day.

Although headaches are a common problem, if their type, intensity and duration suddenly change, it should not be taken lightly. The neurosurgeon's message is clear: Seek medical advice immediately if you have an unusual, severe or prolonged headache. If nausea, blurred vision, confusion or body weakness are associated with the headache, this can be an urgent warning sign.

Therefore, there is no need to panic if you have a headache, but be aware of the symptoms that appear in the body and seek medical advice.

Source: Times of India