Can Common Headache Be Life-Threatening? AIIMS Expert Shares 5 Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore

With life getting busier than ever, headaches have turned into a major health concern. Every second or third person experiences frequent headaches, often dismissing them as a result of heat, stress or other minor causes. However, AIIMS expert Dr. Priyanka Sehrawat warns that some headaches can be a red flag for serious neurological issues. She recently uploaded a video on her Instagram handle, sharing five warning signs of headaches that should never be ignored. If you notice any of these, you must consult a neurologist immediately.

AIIMS Expert Shares 5 Warning Signs of Headache

Dr. Priyanka Sehrawat emphasises that if a headache is accompanied by any of these five signs, it’s crucial to seek medical attention without delay.

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A post shared by Dr.Priyanka Sehrawat (@docpriyankasehrawat)

1. Sudden Change in the Nature of Your Headache

AIIMS expert Dr. Priyanka Sehrawat warns that if you've had mild headaches for years that would go away on their own, but suddenly, the pattern changes, it could be a serious red flag. If the headache starts affecting your entire head and feels like a tight band around it or is accompanied by severe vomiting then you should not ignore it. If the intensity and frequency have increased, consult a neurologist immediately.

2. Vision Problems or Ringing in the Ears

In the second warning sign, she says that if a headache is accompanied by vision problems like blurriness, double vision, or a loss of side vision (as if a curtain has come down), it could be due to increased brain pressure. Additionally, ringing in the ears or hearing disturbances should not be ignored. These symptoms require urgent medical attention.

3. Headache with Fever, Vomiting or Neck Stiffness

In the third warning sign, Dr. Sehrawat warns that if a headache is persistent and occurs with fever, vomiting, and neck stiffness, it could indicate a brain infection or increased pressure inside the brain. Infections like meningitis or encephalitis can cause these symptoms, and they require urgent medical attention. If your headache doesn’t go away and is accompanied by these signs, see a neurologist immediately.

4. New-Onset Headache After the Age of 50

In the fourth warning sign, she highlights that if you have never experienced headaches before but suddenly start getting them after turning 50, this could indicate an underlying health issue. A new-onset headache at this age could be linked to blood vessel disorders, high blood pressure, or even brain tumors. Do not take it lightly—seek medical consultation as soon as possible.

5. Headache with Weakness, Numbness or Loss of Balance

In the fifth warning sign, Dr. Sehrawat explains that if a headache is accompanied by weakness in the hands or feet, tingling sensations, numbness, difficulty walking, or problems maintaining balance (known as ataxia), it could be an alarming neurological sign. These symptoms indicate a need for urgent medical evaluation.

Dr. Priyanka Sehrawat urges everyone not to dismiss headaches as a minor issue. If you experience any of these five warning signs, consult a neurologist without delay. Timely diagnosis and treatment can prevent severe health complications and even save lives.