Headaches are a common ailment that almost everyone has experienced at some point in their lives. They can be caused by a variety of factors, such as stress, lack of sleep, dehydration, and allergies.

Most headaches are not serious and can be treated with over-the-counter pain relievers or home remedies. However, some headaches can be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition. Here are 7 signs that your headache might be a symptom of a more serious condition:.

1. Thunderclap Headache

A thunderclap headache is a sudden and severe headache that peaks within 60 seconds. It can be a sign of a subarachnoid hemorrhage, which is bleeding in the space between the brain and its surrounding membranes.

Other symptoms of a subarachnoid hemorrhage include neck stiffness, nausea, vomiting, and loss of consciousness. If you experience a thunderclap headache, seek medical attention immediately.

2. Headache with Weakness or Numbness on One Side of the Body

If you experience a headache along with weakness or numbness on one side of your body, it could be a sign of a stroke.

This type of headache is called a “cerebral infarction headache.” Other symptoms of a stroke include confusion, difficulty speaking, vision changes, and loss of balance. If you experience these symptoms, call 911 immediately.

3. Headache with Vision Changes

A headache with vision changes can be a sign of several serious conditions, including a brain tumor, meningitis, or a stroke. Vision changes may include blurred vision, double vision, or temporary loss of vision in one eye.

If you experience a headache with vision changes, seek medical attention immediately.

4. Headache with Fever

If you experience a headache along with fever, it could be a sign of a serious infection, such as meningitis, encephalitis, or a sinus infection.

Other symptoms of these infections may include neck stiffness, sensitivity to light, confusion, and seizures. If you have a headache with fever, seek medical attention immediately.

5. Headache after a Head Injury

If you experience a headache after a head injury, it could be a sign of a concussion or a more severe head injury, such as a skull fracture or a brain hemorrhage.

Other symptoms of a concussion may include nausea, dizziness, and sensitivity to light or noise. If you have a headache after a head injury, seek medical attention immediately.

6. Headache with Seizures

If you experience a headache along with seizures, it could be a sign of a serious neurological condition, such as epilepsy or a brain tumor. Other symptoms of these conditions may include loss of consciousness, muscle weakness, and memory problems.

If you have a headache with seizures, seek medical attention immediately.

7. Chronic Headaches

Chronic headaches are defined as headaches that occur more than 15 days per month for at least 3 months. Chronic headaches can be a sign of several conditions, including a brain tumor, a sinus infection, or a blood clot in the brain.

If you have chronic headaches, seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause.