Headache is one of the most common health conditions, with nearly half of adults experiencing it approximately once a year. Although headaches may not be a cause of concern, it is necessary to be aware of some warning signs, as they may be associated with a serious underlying condition. Some signs can range from mild discomfort to debilitating pain that can make even most daily tasks difficult. Here are the following signs of a headache:

Sensitivity to light and sound
It is one of the most common alarming signs of headache that can cause a throbbing sensation, usually on one side of the head, when exposed to light or loud sounds. Although it is not life-threatening, it can severely impact daily tasks. It is also one of the most common warning signs experienced by people worldwide. People suffering from migraine also typically experience this symptom. Other factors that can increase the risk of headaches due to sensitivity to light and sound include diabetes, hypertension, obesity, depression, and stressful life events. Hence, it is crucial to follow a healthy lifestyle to keep such health conditions at bay.

Temporary vision problems
Some people may experience temporary blindness or flashing lights in one eye. The symptoms associated with visual disturbance can be a result of headaches, migraine, and even spasms in the retina. It is important to note that people suffering from ocular migraines are more prone to vision loss. Apart from this, people suffering from classic migraines or migraines with aura can also have blind spots and floating lights in both eyes.

Fever with a stiff neck
Fever with a stiff neck is a warning sign of a headache. However, it is also an indication of meningitis or encephalitis, which are signs of inflammation of the brain and membrane surrounding it. The symptom is alarming since it is a result of a fatal infection. A compromised immune system due to other underlying health conditions can make it more susceptible to these infections. So, patients experiencing headaches with a stiff neck should seek clinical intervention to ensure it does not result in such infections.

Thunderclap headaches
Thunderclap headaches, also referred to as lone acute headache, is a severe type of headache that is experienced rapidly in 60 seconds or less, causing intense pain. This type of headache usually results from bleeding in the brain due to stroke, arterial aneurysm, or other injuries. Although it can cause bouts of immense pain for 60 seconds, the pain due to a thunderclap headache can last for an hour or more. Thunderclap headache is usually accompanied by nausea, dizziness, and even loss of consciousness in some cases.

Severe pain around the eye
This symptom is a typical sign of a cluster headache, usually experienced on either side. Some patients may also experience other associated symptoms, including tearing and redness of the eye, sweating, changes in the skin, and a runny nostril. Severe symptoms of cluster headaches can disrupt sleep and may require further evaluation.

It is important to be aware of the warning signs mentioned above, as they may indicate a developing underlying health condition. While immediate doctor’s intervention is advised for chronic symptoms, it is equally necessary to be aware of the following clinical options for relief from symptoms.

Nurtec
Nurtec ODT (Rimegepant) is used for acute migraine and headaches, and it is also a used preventive treatment option. The tablet can be taken without water as it dissolves quickly. Its effect can last up to 48 hours. Being a non-prescription treatment, Nurtec can be taken as needed to stop headaches and can be taken every other day to prevent future migraine attacks.

Qulipta™
Calcitonin gene-related peptide or CGRP is a protein that is believed to induce migraine attacks. Qulipta™ (atogepant) is one of the most effective treatment options that block CGRP receptors, preventing migraine attacks. This is a prescription-based treatment that comes in tablets. If a patient has been prescribed other therapies, it may negatively interact with Qulipta™. So always discuss ongoing treatments.

Excedrin
It is yet another over-the-counter treatment option that can help treat migraine attacks. The medicine contains acetaminophen, aspirin, and therapeutically active caffeine that can provide relief from bouts of migraine attacks. Doctors usually recommend taking not more than two caplets daily.

Ubrelvy®
It is an oral medication in the form of a tablet that can be taken during a migraine attack. Ubrelvy® directly blocks the CGRP protein that is believed to cause migraine. The medication can be taken anytime, and it provides relief from pain within two hours.

Although headaches can be managed through easy natural remedies, the alarming signs require careful diagnosis and treatment plans. The treatment options mentioned above are both OTC and prescription-based. In any case, it is essential to discuss their associated side effects to avoid the aggravation of underlying or pre-existing health conditions. Doctors usually recommend the dosing based on the severity of the symptoms. Make sure to inform a health care expert in case of unexpected and severe side effects to avoid health complications.