Brought to a head

SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION IF A HEADACHE IS SEVERE OR SUDDEN, SAY THE EXPERTS.

- BY CAMILLA FOSTER

HEADACHES are a common nuisance, but when does a headache cross the line from annoying to something more serious?

While most headaches are harmless, there are certain warning signs that could indicate a brain tumour and may require medical attention.

With March being Brain Tumour Awareness Month, we get some expert advice about when a headache should raise concern, and the steps to take if you're 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," he explains. "Tumours can occupy space in the skull, causing swelling or blocking the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, which leads to increased pressure on the brain.