[Click! Health] Unprecedented Severe Headache... "Go to the Hospital Immediately"

'Secondary Headache' Due to Brain Diseases and Other Causes
Recognizing Symptoms Such as Limb Paralysis and Speech Disorders

Headache is one of the most common ailments that everyone experiences in their lifetime. The symptoms vary, sometimes feeling like a tight squeeze or a heavy pressure as if a rock is placed on the head. The patterns of headaches also differ, occurring daily or during menstrual periods, among others. Most of these headaches can be classified as 'primary headaches.' These occur without other causes or structural problems in the brain, including migraines and tension-type headaches.

Headache stock photo [Image source=Getty Images]

The headaches that require caution are 'secondary headaches.' These refer to headaches caused by other underlying factors. They account for about 3% of all headaches and can be triggered by trauma, brain diseases, facial disorders, internal medicine conditions, medications, or alcohol consumption.

In particular, they can be very dangerous as they may be caused by life-threatening brain diseases or tumors. The intensity of pain also differs from primary headaches. If you experience a headache that strikes suddenly and intensely like a 'thunderclap,' sudden paralysis of one arm or leg, speech difficulties, high fever accompanied by nausea and vomiting, headache after neck injury, severe dizziness, double vision or vision loss, or if painkillers have no effect, you should seek medical attention immediately.

Headaches can occur when brain infarction, cerebral hemorrhage, or brain tumors cause increased intracranial pressure. In elderly patients, subdural hematoma caused by falls or hitting the head on doors or objects can also be a cause. Professor Lee Hak-young of the Department of Neurology at Kangdong Kyung Hee University Hospital explained, "when new headaches appear in cancer patients, patients taking anticoagulants or immunosuppressants, or pregnant women, medical evaluation is also necessary."

Professor Lee Hak-young of the Department of Neurology at Gangdong Kyung Hee University Hospital is explaining secondary headaches.
[Photo by Gangdong Kyung Hee University Hospital]

Professor Lee also emphasized, "If an elderly person complains of headache after a fall, careful observation is required. If their speech becomes slightly slurred or they limp on one leg while walking, do not hesitate to take them to the hospital," adding, "Subdural hematomas caused by ruptured microvessels in the brain can suddenly worsen as blood accumulates over time, so preventing falls in advance is important."

Headaches caused by cerebral aneurysm, brain infarction, or cerebral hemorrhage require prompt response. Since these cases often directly threaten life, immediate medical assistance is essential. After a detailed medical history and examination to assess the possibility of secondary headaches, if brain disease is suspected, precise tests such as MRI or CT scans are necessary. Professor Lee stated, "If you experience a new headache symptom different from usual more than once, it is crucial to receive expert consultation and detailed examinations," urging proactive measures to not miss the warning signs sent by the brain.