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A sudden, severe headache that may be accompanied by a stiff neck.
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A severe headache accompanied by fever, nausea, or vomiting that is not related to another
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illness.
“First” or “worst” headache, often accompanied by confusion, weakness, double vision, or
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loss of consciousness.
A headache following a head injury.
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A headache and a loss of sensation or weakness in any part of the body, which could be a sign
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of a stroke.
Headache that worsens over days or weeks or has changed in pattern or behavior.
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Recurring headaches in children.
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A headache associated with convulsions.
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Two or more headaches a week.
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A headache associated with shortness of breath.
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A persistent headache in someone who has been previously headache-free, particularly in
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someone over age 50.
New headaches in someone with a history of cancer.
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R
ecently a mother had brought her teenage daughter to my clinic for a routine physical.
While going over the typical questions with her daughter, we came across the question, ‘Have
you ever had headaches?’ The mother answered “No,” while the daughter looked back and
stated, “Yes I do.” Mom turned to me and said, “Well, she has headaches all the time, but
doesn’t everyone?”
This was not the first time I had heard a statement like that. In fact, when I was younger, I had
occasional headaches, which I thought were normal. I didn’t like taking medication, so when
these headaches would start, I would simply wait them out. I figured that if there was a reason
I had the headache, it was better that I didn’t mask the problem, but instead, I would just let
me body work through it. I learned later, that this was not the best course of action.
To answer this mom’s question, not everyone has headaches all the time. In fact, headaches
may be a sign that something is wrong, similar to the check engine light in your car. For most of
my patients, we find the cause of their headaches originates in the neck or upper back.
According to the National Institute of Health, not all headaches require a physician’s attention.
However, headaches can signal a more serious disorder that requires prompt care. You should
call or see a doctor immediately if you or someone you’re with experiences any of these:
Treatment will vary depending on the cause of your headache, however 95% of headaches are primary headaches,
such as migraine, tension or cluster headaches. Current research shows that spinal manipulation – the primary form of
care provided by doctors of chiropractic – may be an effective treatment option for tension headaches and headaches
that originate in the neck. *And don’t forget, if you ever have any questions or concerns about your health, ask your
doctor.
*According to the American Chiropractic Association, www.acatoday.org.
Michael Pound, D.C. practices at 350 John Muir Pkwy in Brentwood, CA. He has been helping patients in the Bay Area
for the last three years live pain-free by reducing stress and increasing flexibility. Dr. Pound has also been trained in
muscle release methods used by sports physicians to speed up soft tissue injury recovery. Combined with his hands-on
care, his goal is to help his patients stay active with less pain. To learn more about natural pain relief or to schedule a
headache evaluation, call 925.480.PAIN or visit www.mybrentwoodchiropractor.com.
Symptoms
healthy living
WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR FOR
HEADACHES
by Michael Pound, D.C.
Dr. Michael
Pound, D.C.
http://youtu.be/LAfY1UswBy4
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