Complications and Risks of Headache

Most headaches do not cause lasting harm, but some can lead to problems, and some signal serious disease.

Complications of headache disorders

• Medication-overuse headache: frequent painkiller use creates a cycle of daily headaches.
• Chronic migraine: attacks on 15 or more days a month that disrupt life.
• Status migrainosus: a migraine lasting over 72 hours that needs medical care.
• Migraine with aura and stroke: rarely, migraine with aura is linked to a slightly higher stroke risk, particularly with smoking and some hormonal contraceptives.
• Side effects of painkillers: stomach bleeding, kidney strain and liver injury with misuse.
• Mood and sleep problems: anxiety, depression and poor sleep are common with chronic headache.
• Lost work and school days.

Headaches that signal serious disease

Meningitis, bleeding around the brain, stroke, brain tumour, giant cell arteritis, very high blood pressure and carbon monoxide poisoning can all cause headache. Warning signs include a thunderclap onset, fever with stiff neck, confusion, weakness, vision change, seizure or onset after head injury.

What to do

Call 112 or 102 for these red flags. See a doctor for headaches that are frequent, worsening, new after age 50, or changed in pattern.

Protecting yourself

Limit painkillers, treat high blood pressure, avoid smoking and keep a regular routine.

Key point

Good control of headache prevents most complications. Red flags need emergency care.

Before your appointment

Keep a headache diary for a few weeks, noting when headaches start, how long they last, their location and type of pain, and possible triggers such as sleep, meals, stress, periods and screen time. List all medicines, supplements and painkillers you take and how many days a month you use them. Mention head injuries, family history, and any red flag symptoms.