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- $Unique_ID{BRK01650}
- $Pretitle{}
- $Title{Is Headache the Sign of an Approaching Stroke?}
- $Subject{headaches stroke Nervous System Headache Strokes interruption blocked
- blood supply brain vessel vessels extremely severe neck stiff stiffness
- cerebrovascular migraine migraines}
- $Volume{F-1}
- $Log{
- Classic Migraine Headaches*0003902.scf
- Where Headaches Originate II*0004002.scf}
-
- Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc.
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-
- Is Headache the Sign of an Approaching Stroke?
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-
- QUESTION: Although I experience the average number of headaches that most of
- my friends do, I was a bit alarmed when I recently learned that a headache may
- be the sign of an approaching stroke. Is this true? How can I tell whether
- or not this is the type of headache I am having?
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-
- ANSWER: Headaches are one symptom of a stroke--the interruption of blood
- supply to a part of the brain, or inflammation or rupture of a blood
- vessel--but not all headaches mean that a stroke is coming on. Considering
- the vast number of headaches in the United States in a given year versus the
- number of strokes, I wouldn't worry too much about an occasional headache.
- However, because headache can be an important warning of a stroke, it is
- wise to be cautious about certain types. Beware of any extremely severe
- headache--one far worse than any other you ever had. Take note of a headache
- brought on by exertion, a severe headache that lasts more than a day, or one
- that gets gradually worse. If your headaches become more severe after you
- pass the age of 35, or any headache that is accompanied by any lessening of
- consciousness, are other situations in which the headache may not be of the
- ordinary kind. Take notice. If you notice any neck stiffness that comes on
- with the headache, call your doctor and get some help, promptly.
-
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-
- The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
- the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your
- doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
- problem.
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-