Headaches are a common ailment we all face occasionally, but it's crucial to know when they could be a sign of something more serious. As Brain Tumour Awareness Month in March draws near, experts have shed light on the potential link between headaches and brain tumours and what symptoms should prompt concern.

Dr Steven Allder, a consultant neurologist at Re:Cognition Health, notes that headaches are often associated with brain tumours, affecting around 50-60% of patients.

"The mechanisms by which brain tumours cause headaches include increased intracranial pressure, direct irritation and changes in blood flow," Dr Allder details. He explains that tumours can take up space within the skull, leading to swelling or obstruction of cerebrospinal fluid movement, thus increasing pressure on the brain.

"Additionally, tumours may press on or stretch sensitive tissues like blood vessels or nerves, triggering pain. Tumours can also disrupt normal blood circulation within the brain, contributing to headaches."

What characteristics do brain tumour headaches have?

When it comes to identifying headaches that could be related to brain tumours, there are specific characteristics to watch for. One of the primary indicators is persistent, worsening headaches.

"Unlike typical tension or migraine headaches, brain tumour headaches tend to worsen over time," warns Dr Allder. "This progression may involve an increase in the intensity, frequency or duration of the pain."

Morning headaches are another sign to look out for.

"Lying down for long periods of time can increase pressure in the brain," explains Dr Peter Abel, a senior lecturer in biomedical sciences at the University of Central Lancashire who specialises in neuro-oncology. "This means that people suffering from a brain tumour might experience headaches more often in the morning, after a night of sleep."

Pain concentrated in one specific area could also be a warning sign.

"Headaches in a specific area can also signify the location of the brain tumour, due to pressure or blocked fluid," notes Dr Abel. Accompanying symptoms such as nausea and vomiting, vision changes, seizures, muscle weakness or numbness could also indicate a brain tumour.

"Brain tumour headaches are frequently accompanied by other symptoms that suggest increased intracranial pressure or direct effects on the brain," adds Dr Allder. "These can include nausea and vomiting, as well as neurological signs such as vision changes (blurry or double vision), seizures, muscle weakness or numbness."

Another red flag is resistance to common pain relief.

"Unlike typical headaches, those associated with brain tumours often do not respond well to over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol, ibuprofen or aspirin," highlights Dr Allder. "This lack of relief can be a key warning sign."

When should you seek medical advice about a headache?

There are several situations where it's advisable to consult a doctor.

Dr Allder advises: "If headaches are recurring and differ from your usual pattern, it is important to consult a doctor. Similarly, headaches accompanied by neurological symptoms, such as numbness, weakness or speech difficulties, should be investigated. Severe headaches that do not respond to usual pain relief also warrant medical attention."

He further suggests that individuals at higher risk, like those with a history of cancer or a weakened immune system, should seek immediate medical advice if they experience unusual headaches.

When asked about when people should seek emergency treatment for a headache, Dr Abel emphasises: "It's important to take brain tumour symptoms seriously. Emergency care should be sought out if a headache is extremely painful. A fever, a stiff neck, photophobia (light sensitivity) and seizures are all accompanying symptoms which should prompt emergency care."