Headaches can take hold for many reasons, but certain symptoms are red flags and should not be ignored
They are a common nuisance, but some headaches can be a sign of something more serious and even life-threatening. And it is important to know when to get help. March is Brain Tumour Awareness Month, so spoke to experts about when headache should raise concern, and the steps to take if you’re feeling worried.
Is a headache a common side effect of a brain tumour?
Headaches are a common symptom of brain tumours, occurring in about 50-60% of patients, says Dr Steven Allder, consultant neurologist at Re:Cognition Health. “The mechanisms by which brain tumours cause headaches include increased intracranial pressure, direct irritation and changes in blood flow.
“Tumours can occupy space in the skull, causing swelling or blocking the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, which leads to increased pressure on the brain. Additionally, tumours may press on or stretch sensitive tissues like blood vessels or nerves, triggering pain. Tumours can also disrupt normal blood circulation within the brain, contributing to headaches.”
What does a brain tumour headache feel like?
Brain tumour-related headaches have distinct characteristics that can help differentiate them. Here are five key signs to look out for…
1 Persistent, worsening headaches: “Unlike typical tension or migraine headaches, brain tumour headaches tend to worsen over time,” says Dr Allder. “This progression may involve an increase in the intensity, frequency or duration of the pain.”
2 Morning headaches: “Lying down for long periods of time can increase pressure in the brain,” says Dr Peter Abel, senior lecturer in biomedical sciences at the University of Central Lancashire, who specialises in neuro-oncology. “This means people suffering from a brain tumour might experience headaches more often in the morning, after a night of sleep.”
3 Pain concentrated in one area: “Headaches in a specific area can also signify the location of the brain tumour, due to pressure or blocked fluid,” notes Dr Abel.
4 Other symptoms: “Brain tumour headaches are frequently accompanied by other symptoms that suggest increased intracranial pressure or direct effects on the brain,” says Dr Allder. “These can include nausea and vomiting, as well as vision changes (blurry or double vision), seizures, muscle weakness or numbness.”
5 Resistance to common pain relief: “Unlike typical headaches, those associated with brain tumours often do not respond well to over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol, ibuprofen or aspirin,” says Dr Allder. “This lack of relief can be a key warning sign.”
When to get urgent help
“If headaches are recurring and differ from your usual pattern, it is important to consult a doctor,” says Dr Allder. “Similarly, those headaches accompanied by neurological symptoms, such as numbness, weakness or speech difficulties, should be investigated. Severe headaches that do not respond to usual pain relief also warrant medical attention.”
The neurologist also advises that individuals at higher risk, such as those with a history of cancer or a weakened immune system, should seek prompt medical advice if they experience unusual headaches. “It’s important to take brain tumour symptoms seriously,” stresses Dr Abel.
“Emergency care should be sought out if a headache is extremely painful. A fever, a stiff neck, photophobia (light sensitivity), and seizures are all accompanying symptoms which should prompt emergency care.”
