Do Frequent Headaches Mean Brain Tumour?

Are frequent headaches a sign of a brain tumor? Learn how to spot red flags, understand symptoms, and know when to seek medical help. Here's what experts say on World Brain Tumour Day 2025.

Worried about frequent headaches? Here's how to know if it's a brain tumour or something less serious.

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{By: Dr. Gangesh Gunjan}

Headaches are among the most common health complaints. While they’re usually linked to stress, sleep deprivation, dehydration, or sinus issues, many people worry they could be a sign of something more serious, like a brain tumour. Let’s understand when a headache might warrant further medical attention.

When Are Headaches A Warning Sign Of A Brain Tumour?

Headaches are one of the commonest complaints that are encountered in an outpatient department. They are often caused by tension, stress, lack of sleep, dehydration, eye strain, migraines or sinus related issues. However frequent headaches can be a matter of concern for anyone of us, but that does not necessarily mean that it is due to a brain tumour.

Brain tumours are not that common, and when they do cause headaches, the pattern is usually different. Tumour related headaches may worsen over time and are usually more pronounced during morning hours. They may be associated with vomiting, which actually relieves headaches. These headaches are associated with other neurological symptoms too, like seizures, weakness in limbs, speech difficulties, vision problems or changes in personality.

When Should You Seek Medical Help?

It's essential not to panic. If headaches are new, progressively worsening, or different from ones usual headache patterns, then it becomes important to seek medical evaluation. A neurological examination followed by imaging studies such as CT or MRI scans can help rule out serious causes.

Early diagnosis is the key to better outcomes in brain tumour cases. While frequent headaches alone usually aren’t sign of a tumour, being aware of warning signs such as any persistent, unusual or worsening headache requires seeking timely medical advice to ensure peace of mind and proper care.

The author, Dr. Gangesh Gunjan, is Senior Consultant - Neurosurgery, at Sarvodaya Hospital , Greater Noida West.

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]