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While headaches are often perceived as common and benign, they can sometimes signal underlying conditions that pose significant health risks, warns Sudhir Kumar, a neurologist based in Hyderabad.
In a post on X.com, Dr. Sudhir Kumar, affiliated with Apollo Hospital in Hyderabad, underscores the importance of promptly recognizing and treating headaches to prevent potential disability or even death.
“Though headaches are frequently harmless, not all causes are benign. Some conditions leading to headaches can result in severe complications, including disability and fatality, if not identified and managed promptly,” explains Dr. Sudhir Kumar.
Among the potentially dangerous causes of headaches, Dr. Kumar highlights “subarachnoid hemorrhage,” characterized by life-threatening bleeding in the brain. He references the recent case of motivational speaker Jaggi Vasudev, who underwent emergency surgery to address bleeding in the skull, underscoring the seriousness of such conditions.
Dr. Sudhir Kumar outlines various symptoms that may indicate more severe underlying causes of headaches. These include headaches that disrupt sleep, worsen upon waking, or are accompanied by vomiting, double vision, or weakness in limbs, potentially suggestive of conditions like brain tumors or strokes.
Moreover, headaches associated with fever, reduced alertness, or seizures could indicate meningitis or encephalitis, requiring immediate medical attention.
The neurologist also flags specific “red flags” that warrant urgent evaluation, including headaches in individuals over 50, headaches lasting more than 72 hours, or headaches unresponsive to pain-relief medications. Any recent changes in headache frequency, severity, or character should also prompt further investigation.
Dr. Sudhir Kumar emphasizes the importance of consulting a neurologist and undergoing diagnostic imaging, such as a CT or MRI scan, if any concerning symptoms arise. Early recognition and initiation of appropriate treatment are crucial in preventing adverse outcomes associated with serious underlying conditions.
In conclusion, Dr. Kumar stresses the life-saving potential of timely intervention, urging individuals to prioritize their health and seek medical attention promptly if they experience any concerning symptoms associated with headaches.
