Headaches can be a common occurrence in life. Most headaches are harmless and go away on their own, and headaches can often be treated with over-the-counter painkillers. However, sometimes a headache can be a sign of a more serious underlying problem.

It’s important to know when you should seek medical attention for your headache. Here are 7 warning signs to look out for:.

1. Thunderclap Headache

A thunderclap headache is a very severe headache that comes on suddenly, like a “bolt of lightning.” It can feel like someone has hit you in the head with a sledgehammer.

It’s important to seek medical attention right away if you experience a thunderclap headache as it can be a sign of a life-threatening condition such as a ruptured aneurysm.

2. Headache with a Stiff Neck

If you have a headache and a stiff neck, it could be a sign of meningitis. Meningitis is an infection that affects the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

Other symptoms of meningitis include fever, nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, and confusion. If you have these symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately.

3. Headache with Vision Changes

If you have a headache and your vision is suddenly blurry or you see flashing lights, it could be a sign of a migraine or a more serious condition such as a stroke or a brain tumor.

Seek medical attention right away if you have a headache with vision changes.

4. Headache with Weakness or Numbness

If you have a headache and you suddenly feel weak or numb on one side of your body, it could be a sign of a stroke. Seek medical attention right away if you have a headache with weakness or numbness on one side of your body.

5. Headache After a Head Injury

If you have a headache after a head injury, it could be a sign of a concussion or a more serious brain injury. Other symptoms of a concussion can include dizziness, confusion, and memory loss.

If you have these symptoms, seek medical attention right away.

6. Headache with Seizures

If you have a headache and you have a seizure, it could be a sign of a serious medical condition such as epilepsy or a brain tumor. Seek medical attention right away if you have a headache with seizures.

7. Headache with Fever

If you have a headache with a fever, it could be a sign of an infection such as the flu or meningitis. Other symptoms of an infection can include body aches, chills, and vomiting. Seek medical attention if you have these symptoms.

Conclusion

Headaches can be a sign of a variety of different conditions, some serious and some not. It’s important to know when you should seek medical attention for your headache.

If you experience a thunderclap headache, a headache with a stiff neck, vision changes, weakness or numbness, after a head injury, with seizures, or with a fever, seek medical attention right away.