What should you know about a mild but persistent headache?

Headache may arise from tension, migraine, dehydration, sleep disruption, medication use, infection, vision strain or other conditions. In some people with a brain tumour, headache occurs with features caused by pressure or irritation, but headache alone does not identify a tumour. Brain metastases, brain tumour and glioblastoma are possible diagnoses doctors may consider when other findings or a relevant history point in that direction. Note when the headache starts, where it is felt, how long it lasts, what makes it better or worse, and whether nausea, weakness, vision change or confusion accompanies it.

Arrange a medical review for a new headache that keeps returning, gradually changes, wakes you from sleep, is worse with coughing or straining, or appears with neurological symptoms. The clinician may check blood pressure, eyes, neurological function, medicines, sleep and hydration, then decide whether imaging or other tests are appropriate. Bring your symptom diary and a list of pain medicines. Do not increase pain medicine repeatedly without advice, because frequent use can maintain headaches.

Seek emergency care for a sudden severe headache, new weakness or numbness, trouble speaking, fainting, seizure, severe confusion, stiff neck with fever, repeated vomiting or new loss of vision. If you have a known cancer diagnosis, contact your oncology team promptly for a new or worsening headache, especially with balance change, unusual sleepiness or a change in behaviour. Do not drive yourself if you have neurological symptoms or feel unsafe.

What features of my headache matter most? Could my medicines, sleep, vision or blood pressure contribute? Do I need a neurological examination or brain imaging? Which symptoms should trigger emergency care? How often may I use my current pain medicine? If I have cancer, could this pattern relate to treatment or disease, and who should coordinate the assessment?