Headache Red Flags for a Brain Tumor

Headache Red Flags for a Brain Tumor

“Red flags” include headaches that have acutely changed in character, especially if there are new, more severe, or progressive symptoms. Other concerning headache symptoms are those on exertion or with onset at night or in the early morning, associated with fever, systemic symptoms, meningismus, or new neurologic signs, precipitated by Valsalva maneuvers. Lastly, if a new headache occurs in an adult (especially the elderly) or young child or in a cancer patient, cranial imaging should be performed to diagnose a potential brain tumor 

Headache Red Flags That Require Further Evaluation for a Brain Tumor

Prior headaches that have changed in character
New, severe, progressive headaches
Occur with exertion or onset at night or early morning
Associated with fever, other systemic symptoms, meningismus, or new neurologic signs
Precipitated by Valsalva maneuvers
New symptoms in young child or adult (especially the elderly)New symptoms in a patient with a prior cancer diagnosis
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