Headache is a common occurrence, often attributed to various factors such as a cold, flu, stress, hunger, dehydration, or even issues like bad posture or eyesight problems. In most cases, headaches have benign origins, related to everyday occurrences.
However, it's essential to acknowledge the potential link to serious conditions like brain tumours, especially when accompanied by other concerning signs and symptoms. Our philosophy is simple: Better Safe Than Tumour.
Is My Headache a Sign of a Brain Tumour?
The reassuring truth is that the majority of headaches are not indicative of brain tumours. Headaches are prevalent in healthy individuals and can stem from numerous everyday causes. Yet, it's crucial to note that headaches constitute one of the most common symptoms of a brain tumour, with up to 60% of affected individuals experiencing headaches at some point.
These headaches are not a direct result of the tumour itself, given the brain's lack of pain receptors. Instead, they arise from pressure build-up on pain-sensitive blood vessels and nerves within the brain. This pressure can result from the tumour pressing on these vessels or nerves or obstructing the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the brain.
However, it's vital to understand that headaches rarely manifest as the sole symptom of a brain tumour.
Characteristics of Brain Tumour Headaches:
Headaches linked to brain tumours often exhibit specific characteristics:
- Morning Intensity: They are typically worse in the morning, with individuals waking up with a headache.
- Activity Aggravation: Straining, coughing, shouting, or bending over can exacerbate these headaches. The pain may decrease when standing upright as CSF drainage begins.
- Unresponsive to Pain Killers: Unlike common headaches, those associated with brain tumours often do not respond well to pain killers.
What to Expect from Brain Tumour Headaches:
- Throbbing or Dull Ache: The headaches can vary from throbbing to a dull ache, depending on their location in the brain.
- Intermittent Occurrence: They tend to occur intermittently, starting gradually and fading over a few hours.
- Worsening Over Time: Headaches linked to brain tumours tend to worsen over time and can bear similarities to common migraines or tension-type headaches.
Other Types of Headaches:
Understanding the broader spectrum of headaches is crucial. Other headache types include tension headaches, migraines, rebound headaches, cluster headaches, sinus headaches, and those associated with flu, fever, or PMS.
Red Flags – Signs of Concern:
Certain features of headaches, termed "red flags," may suggest a brain tumour. These include a change in the usual headache pattern, association with prolonged vomiting, new muscle weakness, sensory changes, visual symptoms, seizures, or alterations in memory, personality, or thinking.
However, it's vital to recognize that these symptoms can also occur in benign headaches.
I Suspect a Brain Tumour – What Should I Do?
If persistent or severe headaches raise concerns, consider the following steps:
- Consult Your GP: Schedule a discussion with your doctor, who can conduct a neurological examination to assess various factors.
- Eye Test: If symptoms are limited to changes in vision or headaches, an eye test by an optician before seeing your GP can provide valuable insights.
When to Seek Urgent Medical Attention:
Seek immediate medical attention if:
- The headache is accompanied by fever or a stiff neck.
- It registers as the highest degree of pain on the pain scale.
While not necessarily indicative of a brain tumour, these symptoms may signify another serious condition requiring prompt treatment.
Coping Strategies for Brain Tumour Headaches:
For individuals dealing with headache pain related to brain tumours, several strategies can help manage discomfort:
- Prescribed Medication: Adhering to prescribed medication, such as steroids, can aid in reducing brain swelling and alleviating headaches.
- Headache Diary: Keeping a headache diary allows tracking patterns, changes, and symptoms, aiding in effective communication with healthcare providers.
Conclusion: Prioritizing Health and Awareness
In summary, while headaches are a common occurrence, it's crucial to stay vigilant and seek professional guidance if symptoms persist or raise concerns. Our "Better Safe Than Tumour" approach encourages individuals to prioritize their health, ensuring timely medical assessments for accurate diagnoses and appropriate management strategies.
Actions to Take:
- Track headaches using BRIAN’s quality of life tracker, noting patterns and changes.
- Understand other potential symptoms of brain tumours.
- Schedule a GP appointment for a thorough check-up and address any concerns.
Remember, timely communication with healthcare professionals is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective symptom management.