By Geradine Ohonba
Health Editor/Columnist
Headaches and Brain Tumours: The Subtle Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
Headaches are one of the most common health complaints worldwide, often linked to stress, fatigue, dehydration, or migraines. For most people, a headache is nothing more than a temporary discomfort that resolves with rest, hydration, or simple medication. However, neurologists warn that not all headaches should be taken lightly. In rare cases, persistent or unusual headaches may be an early warning sign of a brain tumour. Understanding the difference could be lifesaving.
When a Headache Becomes More Than Just a Headache
According to medical experts, brain tumours can cause pressure inside the skull, leading to headaches that feel different from ordinary ones. Unlike tension headaches or migraines, tumour-related headaches often:
-
Occur more frequently or progressively worsen over time
-
Are more intense in the morning or when lying down
-
Worsen with coughing, sneezing, or physical strain
-
Fail to respond to regular pain relief medications
Neurologists emphasize that while these signs do not automatically mean a person has a tumour, they should not be ignored—especially when accompanied by other unusual symptoms.
Subtle Symptoms That Accompany Headaches
Headaches linked to brain tumours are rarely isolated. They are often accompanied by other neurological symptoms that signal something more serious. These include:
-
Persistent nausea or vomiting unrelated to food poisoning or stomach illness
-
Vision problems, such as blurred or double vision, or loss of peripheral vision
-
Seizures, even in people with no history of epilepsy
-
Unexplained weakness or numbness, especially on one side of the body
-
Difficulty with speech, memory, or concentration
-
Sudden changes in personality or behaviour
Doctors stress that noticing one or more of these symptoms alongside chronic headaches should prompt immediate medical consultation.
Why Early Detection Matters
Brain tumours, whether cancerous or benign, can grow silently and press against vital parts of the brain. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes. Imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans remain the most reliable way to determine whether a headache has a neurological cause.
Unfortunately, many people dismiss warning signs, assuming headaches are stress-related. This delay can lead to late diagnosis, when treatment becomes more complex and less effective.
When to See a Doctor
You should seek urgent medical advice if you experience:
-
A sudden, severe “thunderclap” headache
-
Headaches that wake you up at night or are worse in the morning
-
New or unusual headaches after age 40
-
Headaches with neurological changes like confusion, slurred speech, or imbalance
While most headaches are harmless, being attentive to patterns and associated symptoms can make all the difference.
On Thoughts
Headaches are part of everyday life for millions, but persistent or unusual ones shouldn’t be overlooked. Neurologists advise taking note of frequency, intensity, and accompanying symptoms. If your headaches are evolving or behaving differently, it’s always better to consult a healthcare professional. After all, early detection can mean the difference between routine treatment and a life-threatening emergency.
