A headache is continuous pain or discomfort in the head, scalp or upper neck that we all get at some point in our lives. For the most part, usually we can attribute a headache to its causes — stress, hunger, sun exposure, tension or illness — and over-the-counter pain relieving medication is usually enough to alleviate the symptoms.

But when is a headache more than just a headache, and when should you be concerned?

General, laparoscopic and bariatric surgeon Dr Alfred Dawes said it’s important that you watch the accompanying symptoms.

“If the headache is associated with vomiting, fever, drowsiness, change in consciousness and dizziness then that’s a sign that something more serious than a headache is going on,” Dr Dawes said.

Other signs that indicate it’s time to see a doctor are:

1. Trauma or blurred vision. Dr Dawes said that if there was trauma to the head or if an individual has difficulty seeing, then it is something to be considered serious and seeing a doctor is a good idea.

2. Prolonged pain. “If the headache is lasting for several hours or days then scheduling a doctor’s visit is best,” the doctor said.

3. It interrupts daily activities. “The inability to function at work, school or in important areas of your life is a cardinal sign that you need to look out for,” Dr Dawes said.

4. If you have a high fever, stiff neck or nausea with your headache.

5. If the pain interferes with your sleep.

6. If you have problems moving your arms or legs, have loss of balance, confusion, or memory loss with your headache.

7. If the pain persists for more than two days.

8. If the headache is sudden, explosive or violent.

9. If you have a history of cancer and the pain is sudden and foreign to you.

–Kimberley Hibbert