Why does glioblastoma cause persistent headache?

The brain itself does not sense pain in the same way as skin, but the coverings of the brain, blood vessels and other nearby structures do. A glioblastoma and the swelling around it can stretch or press on these tissues. Headache may be new, increasingly frequent, worse after waking or aggravated by coughing, straining or changing position. It may occur with nausea, vomiting, vision changes, weakness, speech difficulty or a seizure. Headache is common and has many causes; its pattern alone cannot diagnose a brain tumour.

Arrange medical review for a new headache that persists, changes character or is accompanied by neurological symptoms. Describe its location, timing, severity, triggers, effect of usual pain relief and any nausea, vomiting, vision or movement changes. A clinician may perform a neurological examination and decide whether brain imaging or other tests are needed. Use medicines only as directed, and do not keep increasing pain-relief doses without advice.

Seek emergency help for a sudden severe headache, headache with new weakness or numbness, confusion, fainting, seizure, trouble speaking, vision loss, repeated vomiting or difficulty walking. Urgent assessment is also needed when a persistent headache is rapidly worsening or follows a significant head injury. These warning signs call for timely evaluation, but they do not establish glioblastoma as the cause.

What features of my headache make imaging appropriate? Could medication, migraine, infection or another condition explain it? Which neurological changes should prompt emergency help? If imaging shows a brain lesion, what further tests clarify its type and location?