Introduction:
Headaches are a common complaint, but not all are harmless. Some headaches may signal an underlying neurological condition, including brain tumors or vascular issues.

Red Flag Symptoms (Seek immediate care):

  • Sudden, severe “thunderclap” headache

  • Headaches with nausea, vomiting, or seizures

  • Persistent headache that worsens over time

  • Headaches with vision problems or speech difficulty

  • Headache with neck stiffness or fever

Primary vs. Secondary Headaches:

  • Primary: Migraines, tension headaches—generally not dangerous

  • Secondary: Caused by underlying diseases like tumors, meningitis, or hemorrhage

Conclusion:
While most headaches are benign, persistent or unusual symptoms warrant medical attention. Early evaluation by a neurologist or neurosurgeon can rule out serious causes like brain tumors or hemorrhages.

PhD-qualified neurosurgeon specializing in brain tumor research, neuroimaging, and spine surgery. Founder of EJSMR, mentoring 2,000+ students globally in medical sciences.