Signs that distinguish a common headache from a stroke

Headache can be a common nuisance in daily life, but when it is related to a stroke, also known as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), it takes on particular characteristics that They can be warning signs of a medical emergency.

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A stroke occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted. This can be due to a blockage in an artery (ischemic stroke) or a ruptured blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke). Both types of events can rapidly and irreversibly damage brain cells if immediate attention is not received.

Unlike a common headache, a headache associated with a stroke usually has the following characteristics:

• Sudden onset: It comes on suddenly, without warning. Many patients describe it as "the worst headache of their lives."
• Severe pain: The pain is very severe from the start, with no gradual progression. It may feel like an explosion or a whiplash in the head.
• Variable location: Although it can affect any part of the head, it is common for it to be located on one side only (if the stroke is focal), but it can also feel like a diffuse or generalized pain.
• Accompanied by other symptoms: Pain is often accompanied by neurological signs such as:
• Loss of strength or feeling in the face, arm, or leg (especially on one side of the body).
• Difficulty speaking or understanding language.
• Blurred vision or loss of vision in one or both eyes.
• Loss of balance, dizziness, or lack of coordination.
• Confusion or loss of consciousness.

What type of stroke is most associated with headaches?

Hemorrhagic strokes, caused by a ruptured blood vessel, are the most commonly associated with severe headaches. In cases of subarachnoid hemorrhage (a severe form of stroke), the headache can be sudden and overwhelming, often described as a "thunderclap in the brain."

What to do if this type of pain occurs?

Any headache that appears suddenly and intensely, especially if accompanied by the symptoms mentioned above, should be treated as a medical emergency. It is essential to seek immediate attention at the nearest emergency room, as Prompt treatment can save the patient's life and reduce the risk of permanent after-effects.

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A stroke headache is unlike any other. Its sudden onset, extreme intensity, and accompanying neurological symptoms clearly distinguish it. Recognizing these signs can make the difference between recovery or a serious complication. If you suspect a stroke, acting quickly is crucial.

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