What are connections between frequent headaches and brain cancer?

 

While frequent headaches (migraines) can be a concerning symptom, it's important to remember that they are very rarely associated with brain cancer. In fact, most headaches have much more common and less serious causes.

However, it's understandable to be worried, so let's explore the connection in more detail:

 

Headaches and Brain Tumors:

 

- Headaches are not a typical symptom of brain tumors: while some brain tumors can cause headaches, especially if they press on nerves or blood vessels, this is uncommon.

Other symptoms like seizures, vision changes, weakness, or numbness are more frequently associated with brain tumors.

- Most headaches have other causes: tension headaches, migraines, dehydration, and sinus problems are much more common causes of frequent headaches.

- Key differences in headaches caused by brain tumors: if your headaches are new, different from your usual headaches, worsening over time, and accompanied by other neurological symptoms, then it's wise to see a doctor to rule out any serious underlying causes.

 

When to see a doctor:

 

- If you experience any new or unusual headaches that are severe, don't improve with over-the-counter medication, or are accompanied by other concerning symptoms like:

    - fever, nausea, vomiting, or dizziness;

    - vision changes, weakness, or numbness;

    - seizures or confusion;

    - difficulty speaking or understanding speech.

 

Please remember:

 

- Consulting a healthcare professional is the best way to get a diagnosis and appropriate treatment for your headaches. They can assess your individual situation and determine the cause.

- While it's understandable to be concerned, the vast majority of frequent headaches are not related to brain tumors.

 

For further information:

 

- National Brain Tumor Society: https://www.braintumor.org

- American Cancer Society: https://www.cancer.org/

 This article is created with help from gemini (google AI)