Headaches are among the most common health complaints worldwide, affecting people of all ages and backgrounds. But not all headaches are the same, and understanding their causes and signs can help you know when simple remedies will do—and when you should consult a specialist.
As explained by Dr. Sujit Kumar Vidiyala, Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon at Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS) Hospital, Begumpet, Secunderabad, headaches have many causes, and not all require medication. Let’s explore this topic in detail, blending medical expertise with answers to the most asked headache-related questions.
What Is a Headache?
A headache refers to any pain arising from the region of the head, including the back, forehead, or even the neck. According to Dr. Sujit:
“A headache is one of the most common symptoms in day-to-day life. Any pain from the head, back of the head, forehead, or part of the neck can be considered a headache.”
What Causes a Headache?
Headaches occur for various reasons, from simple tiredness and stress to medical conditions. Dr. Sujit outlines major causes such as:
- Stress and Mental Exhaustion
- Fever or Infections
- Eye problems (like refractive errors)
- Sinus issues (accompanied by sneezing and nose blocks)
- Vascular causes (Migraine, cluster headaches)
- Serious causes:
- Sudden brain bleeding (stroke)
- Tumors in the brain
- Infections (like abscesses, tuberculosis)
- Birth defects (e.g., hydrocephalus—fluid accumulation in the brain)
- Tumors involving the sinuses or adjacent head regions
“There are a number of causes, starting from simple tiredness, stress, fever, eye problems, sinus problems, to serious causes like brain bleeding or tumor.” – Dr. Sujit
Types and Locations of Headaches
Understanding the type and location can provide clues about the cause:
- Tension Headaches: Dull, band-like pain around the head, usually from stress or muscle strain.
- Migraine:
- Severe, throbbing, often one-sided.
- Can include nausea, light, or sound sensitivity.
- Cluster Headaches:
- Intense, sharp pain around or behind one eye.
- Come in cycles or “clusters”.
- Sinus Headaches:
- Pressure with pain in the forehead or cheekbones, aggravated by sinus infection.
“Headaches can be periodic, coming for years—such as migraines associated with stress; or they can be serious, such as bleeding, stroke, tumor, or infections.” – Dr. Sujit
Locations and Their Meanings
- Left side of head: Common in migraines and cluster headaches.
- Back of the head: Often tension or cervicogenic (neck-origin) headache.
- Behind eyes or cheekbones: Possible sinus headaches.
- During Pregnancy: Usually from hormonal changes, stress, or dehydration; must be managed carefully.
When Should You Worry About a Headache?
Most headaches are mild and resolve with rest, relaxation, and sometimes painkillers.
But according to Dr. Sujit, immediate medical attention is needed if:
- The headache gets worse over time.
- Rest, relaxation, proper diet, and simple treatments do not help.
- Headache comes with:
- Blurring of vision
- Difficulty speaking, hearing, or walking
- Seizures or fits
- Loss of consciousness
- Memory loss or abnormal behavior
- Weakness or paralysis of limbs
“When the headache is associated with these serious symptoms, it means the patient needs immediate medical attention.” – Dr. Sujit
How are Headaches Diagnosed?
If symptoms are severe, repeated, or concerning, consult a doctor.
A neurologist or neurosurgeon like Dr. Sujit may order tests such as:
- CT scan
- MRI (including specialized scans like tractography or epilepsy protocols)
- PET or SPECT scans (in specific cases)
But, not everyone needs advanced imaging. Testing is prescribed only if the expert feels it is necessary.
Headache Relief and Prevention
For occasional, mild headaches:
- Take rest in between busy routines
- Practice relaxation techniques
- Maintain hydration
- Set practical, realistic goals to reduce stress
- Use over-the-counter painkillers carefully (avoid self-medication if pain recurs)
Avoid self-diagnosis and prolonged self-treatment. Expert advice can help diagnose and treat any serious causes early—preventing further damage.
“Headache is preventable to a certain extent. With rest, realistic goals, and stress management, you can improve your quality of life.” – Dr. Sujit
Frequently Questions About Headache
Why does headache occur?
- Common causes include stress, dehydration, infection, hormonal changes, or serious underlying conditions.
Why headache on left/right side?
- Usually due to migraines or cluster headaches, sometimes from sinusitis.
Why headache in pregnancy?
- Due to hormonal changes and increased blood volume; report any severe or unusual headaches to your doctor.
When is headache serious?
- When associated with visual problems, speech issues, motor problems, seizures, or loss of consciousness.
How frequent is normal?
- Occasional headaches are common. More than 15 days per month is considered chronic and needs medical attention.
What should I do when I have a headache?
- Rest, hydrate, and use pain relief if necessary. If severe or persistent, consult a doctor immediately.
Final Word
Headaches are usually harmless but can sometimes signal a serious problem. Following the advice from an experienced neurosurgeon like Dr. Sujit Kumar Vidiyala can guide you in understanding, managing, and seeking proper care for headaches.
If you or your loved one experiences persistent, severe, or unusual headaches, do not hesitate to consult a specialist. Early evaluation is the best way to ensure your health and peace of mind.