A headache is a very common problem. All of us experience a headache in our day to day life. But most of the time, there are no signs that you consider it to be a serious medical problem. But when to consult the doctor is important as delay in confirming the diagnosis may be risky. When you have new symptoms or problems that are more severe than normal, it’s worth talking to your doctor.

One should know the headache symptoms -- what’s normal for you and what’s not, and when you need emergency help. The following headache symptoms mean you should get medical help right away: 

  • A sudden, new, severe headache that comes with: Weakness, dizziness, sudden loss of balance or falling, numbness or tingling, or can’t move your body, trouble with speech, confusion, seizures, personality changes, or inappropriate behaviour
  • Blurry vision, double vision, or blind spots
  • Fever, shortness of breath, a stiff neck, or rashes
  • Headache pain that wakes you up at night
  • Severe nausea and vomiting

Headaches that happen after a head injury or accident new type of headache that starts for the first time after age 55

Have headaches that are triggered by coughing, bending, sexual activity or other intense physical activity? Have a history of headaches but have noticed a recent change in your symptoms or pattern of attacks?

  • Weakness, dizziness, sudden loss of balance or falling, numbness or tingling, or can’t move your body
  • The trouble with speech, confusion, seizures, personality changes, or inappropriate behavior
  • Blurry vision, double vision, or blind spots
  • Fever, shortness of breath, a stiff neck, or rash
  • Headache pain that wakes you up at night
  • Severe nausea and vomiting
  • Headaches that happen after a head injury or accident
  • A new type of headache that starts for the first time after age 55
  • Have headaches that are triggered by coughing, bending, sexual activity or other intense physical activity
  • Have a history of headaches but have noticed a recent change in your symptoms or pattern of attacks

You should let your doctor know if you:

  • Have three or more headaches per week
  • Have headaches that keep getting worse and won't go away
  • Need to take a pain reliever every day or almost every day for your headaches
  • Need more than two to three doses of over-the-counter medications per week to feel better
  • Have headaches that interfere with your family, work or social life