What should you know about new daily persistent headache (NDPH)?

NDPH typically has a memorable start: a person can describe when the headache began, and it then remains present. Pain may feel pressing, throbbing, or migraine-like, with nausea or sensitivity to light and sound. The pattern is more useful than one pain description, so record the start date, daily timing, triggers, and associated symptoms.

A persistent headache has many possible explanations, including primary headache disorders and problems involving blood vessels, pressure, infection, medication, or the brain. A headache does not by itself show that someone has a tumour. Clinicians may consider examination, medication review, and brain imaging; [Brain Metastases](/conditions/brain-metastases/), [Brain Tumour](/conditions/brain-tumour/), and [Glioblastoma](/conditions/glioblastoma/) are conditions doctors may need to distinguish from other causes when appropriate.

Arrange a medical assessment if a new headache has become daily, particularly when it differs from previous headaches. Bring a list of medicines, recent infections or injuries, pregnancy status when relevant, and a simple headache diary. Note whether pain is worse on waking, with coughing, or when changing position.

Do not repeatedly increase pain medicines without advice, because frequent use can maintain headaches. Ask whether imaging is needed, what diagnosis is being considered, and which treatment targets pain, nausea, sleep, or an underlying cause.

Seek emergency help for a sudden explosive headache, new weakness or numbness, trouble speaking, seizure, fainting, confusion, or loss of vision. Urgent assessment is also needed for headache with fever and a stiff neck, repeated vomiting, or rapidly worsening pain. These warning signs matter even if the headache has been present before.

Does my pattern fit NDPH or another headache disorder? Do I need imaging or other tests? Could a medicine or recent illness be contributing? Which symptoms require emergency help? How should I track treatment response?