Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Not all headaches are minor – this is when you should see a doctor

Not all headaches will go away with pain relief
Not all headaches will go away with pain relief (Getty Images)
  • Headaches are common but certain symptoms warrant medical attention.
  • Brain tumor headaches are persistent, worsen over time, and are often worse in the morning.
  • They may be concentrated in one area and accompanied by nausea, vomiting, vision changes, seizures, weakness, or numbness.
  • These headaches often resist common pain relievers.
  • Seek medical advice for recurring headaches, those with neurological symptoms, severe headaches unresponsive to pain relief, or if you have a history of cancer or weakened immune system. Seek emergency care for extremely painful headaches accompanied by fever, stiff neck, light sensitivity, or seizures.
In full

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in