When should you see a doctor about persistent headache?

Headache may be linked with migraine, tension, sinus problems, vision strain, dehydration, medication overuse, infection, or high blood pressure. A new headache can also occur with conditions affecting the brain, its coverings, or pressure inside the skull. Persistent headache is a presentation shared by many causes; it does not by itself show that a brain tumour or cancer is present.

Tell the clinician whether pain is worse in the morning, changes with coughing or position, wakes you, or is associated with vomiting, blurred vision, weakness, numbness, speech changes, balance problems, seizures, fever, or confusion. Mention any cancer history or recent head injury.

Record the location, character, severity, timing, triggers, and accompanying symptoms. List pain medicines, supplements, and caffeine use, including how often they are taken. Keep normal fluids and meals if possible, and rest in a quiet space. Do not repeatedly increase pain medicine without advice, because frequent use can sustain headaches. Your clinician may decide whether a neurological examination or scan is needed.

Seek emergency help for a sudden explosive headache, new weakness or numbness, trouble speaking, seizure, fainting, confusion, severe vomiting, loss of vision, fever with a stiff neck, or a headache after a significant injury. If you have cancer and develop a new or rapidly worsening headache, contact your oncology team promptly. Urgency comes from the pattern and accompanying signs, not from the existence of a headache alone.

Ask which features of your headache matter most, whether your medicines could contribute, and what examination or imaging might clarify the cause. Ask which changes require emergency care and how to manage pain while assessment is under way. If you have a known cancer, ask whether symptoms could reflect treatment effects or a condition such as Brain Metastases.