If you have suffered from a debilitating headache that prevented you from going about with your day, you are not alone. Statistical data suggests that headaches affect 16.5% of the population each year. Headaches are often accompanied by symptoms affecting other body parts, including the eyes and the stomach. While headaches are often not severe and can be cured with proper care, some early warning signs of the condition should not be ignored.

Nausea and vomiting
Nausea, vomiting, and digestive problems are common indicators of migraine headaches. These signs and symptoms often develop before a migraine attack and are called “aura.” Therefore, it is important to understand the underlying cause of a migraine, which can help doctors prescribe a suitable treatment course. Hence, one must consult a doctor immediately in case of migraine signs and symptoms like nausea and vomiting.

Fever and body stiffness
Patients with meningitis or encephalitis typically develop fever, body stiffness, and blinding headaches. Encephalitis refers to an inflammation of the brain, whereas meningitis is characterized by inflammation of the membrane surrounding the brain. Such inflammation may trigger flu-like symptoms. Individuals experiencing headaches along with fever and body stiffness must seek a doctor’s guidance at the earliest.

Compromised vision
Compromised vision, including flashes of light in one eye, can indicate migraine and low blood sugar levels. However, in some cases, they may also act as symptoms of traumatic brain injury, retinal spasms, or stroke. Headaches in conjunction with vision problems should not be ignored.

Prolonged headaches after a workout
Headaches after exercise typically signify overexertion, which causes arteries and veins to expand to accommodate increased blood flow. However, if the headache persists and is accompanied by other symptoms like nausea, doctors may prescribe imaging tests like MRI and CT scans. Such tests can help them understand whether the headache is caused due to overexertion or a more severe condition, such as a vascular or structural abnormality.

Slurred speech
Sometimes, individuals may suffer from migraines accompanied by slurred speech and weakened arms, legs, or face. Such symptoms may indicate the onset of a stroke. Therefore, one must consult a doctor immediately if headaches occur alongside slurred speech.

Sensitivity to light and sound
Nearly 80% of individuals having migraine attacks experience sensitivity to light and sound. Thus, it is often a tell-tale sign of migraine for healthcare professionals. Timely diagnosis of migraine with the help of such symptoms can facilitate immediate treatment and steady healing.