Around one in twenty adults experience headaches daily. While headaches might result from several factors, they most often originate from tightness in your shoulders and neck. Fortunately, there are effective headache treatments based on your underlying condition. If you are struggling with headaches Westfield, you can benefit from chiropractic treatments rather than medications. But with most headaches resolving on their own, you may wonder when you should be concerned about a headache and see a doctor. Here is a look at some signs you should worry about a headache to help you know when to consult with a healthcare provider.
Persistent Headaches
A long-lasting headache can cause an unhappy experience, but this is not a cause for concern. However, if your headache persists for a week, it is time to see your doctor. While it might not be a sign of a serious underlying condition, it might be a symptom of a headache disorder. Therefore, seek medical care for headaches lasting for more than a week.
Recurring Headaches
Recurring headaches occur more than 15 days a month for three months or more. They normally signify that something more is happening with your health, such as normal changes, anxiety, sleep disturbances, or taking particular medications. These chronic headaches often disrupt your life and are hard to manage without medical care. Your doctor will help determine the cause of recurring headaches and offer an effective treatment plan.
Intense Pain
If you have an intensely painful headache that you would describe as one of the worst in your life, you should consider seeking medical care. Sudden, intense headaches can indicate a severe, life-threatening condition. These might include; bleeding in the brain, seizures, blurred vision, or loss of consciousness. A doctor can request a CT scan to determine the underlying cause and provide the right treatment.
Headaches That Wake You Up
Another cause of the alarm is a headache that wakes you up. If the headache is so intense that it makes you wake up, you have a serious underlying health issue. Also, if the headaches often feel worse at night, preventing you from getting a good night’s sleep, it should be a cause of concern.
Headaches That Cause Changes in Coordination or Mental Function
If your headache is accompanied by loss of coordination, weakness, or mental confusion, you should seek medical care as soon as possible. These types of headaches can be an indication of stroke and can result in permanent brain damage if left untreated. Also, if your headache is accompanied by fever and a stiff neck, it could be a sign of meningitis and needs immediate medical attention.
While headaches are usually harmless, they can be a sign of an emergency. If you experience any of the reviewed signs or are unsure if your headache is a symptom of a serious condition, you should consult a medical provider. This includes headaches that go on for a long time, are intensely painful, come back frequently, or disrupt your life. Your doctor will examine your condition and prescribe medications to ease the headache and address the underlying causes.
