Dr. Amir Khan outlines five signs of headaches that should not be disregarded, even if one perceives them as insignificant or unimportant.

In a recent statement, Dr. Amir Khan, the resident GP for woman&home magazine, has emphasized the importance of seeking medical attention for new onset severe headaches, particularly those that are painful. According to Dr. Khan, most headaches are tension-type headaches, migraines, or caused by simple dehydration or lack of sleep. However, he warns that certain symptoms, such as fever, altered consciousness, seizures, neck stiffness, photophobia (adversion to light), rash, double vision, or dizziness, could indicate a more serious condition and should prompt an appointment with a doctor.

A survey conducted by Wellbeing of Women found that 4 in 10 women experience sleep issues due to pain, and 39% of women said pain has made them feel less able to exercise. Moreover, the survey revealed that almost a quarter of women reported that pain has contributed to feelings of depression. The survey, however, did not specify the types of pain it examined or provide information on the methods used for the survey.

Dr. Khan also drew attention to the increased susceptibility of individuals over 50 to serious causes of headaches. Headaches in this age group may be a serious sign of temporal arteritis, inflammation and hardening of the blood vessels of the scalp, or other serious causes like brain cancers. He advises investigating new headaches in this age group due to the increased risk.

Headaches that worsen in certain postures may indicate trouble draining fluid in the head and spinal cord, potentially leading to increased pressure. Dr. Khan also warned about thunderclap headaches, which get very intense within five minutes, as they could be a sign of a bleed within the linings of the brain or raised pressure in the head.

Dr. Amir Khan encourages anyone experiencing persistent headaches or those who are particularly affected to consult a healthcare professional. He emphasizes that while headaches are often benign, it's essential to seek professional advice for any concerns. For those who are immunosuppressed, especially those with a past history of certain cancers like lung, breast, or melanoma, should be aware of headaches as they could be a sign of infection or cancer progression to the brain.

In conclusion, while headaches are common, it's crucial to be aware of the potential seriousness, especially for women over 50 and those who are immunosuppressed. If you're experiencing new onset severe headaches or any symptoms that concern you, it's always best to consult a healthcare professional.

Dr. Amir Khan outlines five signs of headaches that should not be disregarded, even if one perceives them as insignificant or unimportant.