Headaches are always a nuisance, but it could be your headache is indicating there’s something else wrong. The question is when I have a headache, should I go to the emergency room to check it out? Headaches involve head pains that are usually characterized as throbbing, constant, unrelenting, or intermittent. In some cases, such as with migraine headaches, there is associated with nausea and vomiting. Often headaches can be treated with aspirin or ibuprofen and are short-lived. On the other hand, other types of headaches can be severe and debilitating. Still, others indicate there is a serious underlying cause that should be treated immediately by medical staff.
Headaches are one of the most common ailments. According to a survey conducted by the CDC, in 2015, as many as 20% of women and 10% of men suffered a severe headache during the preceding 3-month period. Because headaches are so common, they are often ignored. Nevertheless, headaches can represent symptoms of much more serious conditions. Below are a few common headache types, some serious, along with their associated causes or characteristics. If you have a headache, never attempt to self-diagnose. Instead, go to an emergency room for proper medical attention.
High Blood Pressure
In most cases, high blood pressure does not cause headaches. Nevertheless, extremely high blood pressure can increase pressure in the tissues around the brain and result in headaches. These types of headaches should be treated by physicians or emergency room personnel. It’s essential that you not self-diagnose. Instead, visit an emergency room for a professional evaluation.
Sinus Infection
Sinus headaches are considered secondary type headaches. This type of headache is a result of swelling caused by the sinus infection. The swelling puts pressure on the brain and surrounding areas, resulting in a headache.
Swelling of the Brain Following Head Injury
Head injuries often result from accidents during sports events or fall around the home. When the head sustains a hard impact, the brain can swell, causing pressure and an associated headache. Whether a headache occurs or not, this type of injury requires immediate medical attention. Go to the ER if you sustain a head injury since swelling in and around the brain can be life-threatening.
Early Stage Lyme Disease
Lyme disease generally results from the bite of a tick infected with the disease. The bites usually result in a bulls-eye like rash around the bite area. Also, the disease can cause a fever accompanies by a headache. Tick bites can be serious. If you suspect you have been bitten by a tick, whether or not you get a rash, it is vital to see a medical professional as soon as possible.
Stress, Tension, or Exertion
Stress, anxiety, and tension are common causes of headaches. The exertion from strenuous workouts or jogging can also bring on headaches. These type of headaches can often be treated with over the counter medications, but if they persist, they could indicate bleeding in the brain, tumors, or other severe conditions. Visit an emergency room for a medical evaluation.
Migraines
Migraines are a type of reoccurring headache characterized by severe, throbbing pain and sensitivity to light. This type of headache frequently lasts 3 to 4 days and often recurs. Women are three times more likely to have migraines than men, and the condition may last for a lifetime. However, many treatment options are available for those seeking relief.
There are many types and causes of headaches. Often, the primary reason is innocuous while, in other cases, the headache is caused by a severe underlying medical problem. To be sure your headache is not serious, it pays to visit one of Emergency Hospital Systems four emergency rooms. We are located in the communities we serve, with two locations in Deerfield, and one each in Spring and Humble. We’re open 24/7/365 for your convenience, and walk-ins are welcome. There’s plenty of free, close-in parking and our staff is available to assist you with your headaches or any medical emergency. If you prefer you can call for an appointment or for questions, 281-592-5400.