This Is How You Can Identify A Headache Caused By A Tumor

Headaches are common ailments, but when they present with certain characteristics, they could be related to a brain tumor, specialists warn. 

According to the Mayo Clinic, approximately 50% of patients with brain tumors report persistent headaches that worsen over time.

Unlike a common migraine or tension headache, brain tumor headaches often worsen in the morning, when coughing or exercising. This discomfort can be more severe and persistent, and in many cases, it doesn’t respond to conventional painkillers.

How to identify a headache caused by a brain tumor?

The pain associated with a tumor is caused by the pressure that the abnormal growth exerts on healthy brain tissue or by the inflammation it generates in the area. 

In some cases, it may present as a migraine-like pain or as a pressing discomfort similar to a tension headache.

The location of the tumor also influences the type of pain. If it’s located in the back of the brain, it often radiates to the neck. However, if it’s located in the frontal region, the pain may be felt in the eyes or sinuses.

It’s important to be alert if the pain intensifies upon waking or when performing movements such as bending over, coughing, or sneezing, as these are signs of elevated intracranial pressure.

Differences between a common headache and a tumor headache

Not all headaches are cause for alarm, but there are key signs that can make a difference. According to the U.S. National Cancer Institute, common headaches, such as migraines, tend to be episodic and are linked to stress, lack of sleep, or certain foods.

In contrast, brain tumor headaches tend to become progressively worse, persistent, and often accompanied by additional neurological symptoms such as blurred vision, loss of balance, hearing disturbances, personality changes, or cognitive difficulties.

Furthermore, these pains often do not subside with standard medications, which can be an important warning sign for seeking specialized medical attention.

When should you see a doctor about a headache?
Experts recommend not ignoring a headache that comes on suddenly and is very intense or is accompanied by symptoms such as a stiff neck, high fever, persistent nausea, or vomiting. You should also see a doctor if the pain becomes chronic or interferes with daily activities.

Other signs that require urgent medical evaluation include neurological problems such as double vision, difficulty speaking, muscle weakness, or unexplained behavioral changes.

In all cases, a timely diagnosis can make all the difference, especially if it involves an early-stage brain tumor.