Quick Answer
Most headaches are primary, but certain features signal the need for rapid evaluation.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav • NMC 8029 • Kathmandu Neurology Clinic & Cognitive Center
Most headaches are primary —— migraine or tension-type —— but some features indicate possible secondary causes that require urgent care. Seek immediate medical attention for: thunderclap headache peaking within seconds to a minute; headache with fever, neck stiffness, confusion, or rash; headache after head injury; new headache after age 50; progressively worsening headache; or headache with slurred speech, weakness, vision loss, or seizure.
Bring information on onset, character, associated symptoms, medications, and medical history to emergency services. Do not drive yourself if red-flag symptoms are present.
Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav — consultant neurologist & headache specialist at Kathmandu Neurology Clinic & Cognitive Center provides evidence-based evaluation for migraine.
Even without red flags, new daily persistent headache, changing pattern, or headache that impairs daily function merits timely evaluation.
This article educates about general warning features; it does not diagnose individual cases.
Frequently asked questions
Answers reviewed by Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav • MBBS, MD (Internal Medicine), FICN (Neurology), FCNV, FIHM • NMC 8029
Migraine is a neurological condition; headache is one feature. Associated symptoms and functional impact are important for diagnosis.
Aura refers to visual, sensory, or speech symptoms that precede the headache in some people. Both types are migraine; the presence of aura may influence management discussion.
Note time of onset, call emergency services, do not give food/drink or leave the person alone.
TIA symptoms resolve, but it signals high short-term stroke risk. Urgent evaluation and prevention planning are essential.
Migraine typically presents as moderate-severe throbbing headache with nausea and/or sensitivity to light or sound, worsened by routine activity. Duration 4–72 hours. Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav (NMC 8029) uses ICHD-3 criteria plus your headache diary (frequency, aura, medication days) and red-flag screen to distinguish …
Yes. Short or fragmented sleep impairs memory consolidation and lowers migraine threshold. Snoring with apneas fragments sleep and fragments cognition. Dr. Jitendra screens sleep duration, regularity, snoring and caffeine, and refers for sleep study when indicated — often before escalating headache or memory medicines.
More: All FAQs → · Ask Dr. Jitendra →
Related articles
Neurological Symptoms That Require Urgent Care
Which neurologic symptoms cannot wait for an appointment —— red flags for headache, stroke, seizure, vertigo, and acute confusion.
How to Choose a Neurologist in Kathmandu: A Patient's Checklist
What to check when choosing a neurologist in Kathmandu —— NMC registration, qualifications, headache and neurology depth, accessibility, and follow-up.
When to See a Neurologist for Headaches in Kathmandu
Headache is common, but some patterns deserve neurologist input —— frequency, disability, red flags, and what Kathmandu patients should watch.
Medical Disclaimer
Content on this website is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is not a substitute for evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified provider with any questions regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. In case of a medical emergency, contact emergency services immediately. No doctor–patient relationship is established by use of this site or by contacting the clinic through the site.
References & Review
Reviewed by Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav • Last reviewed: 2026-09-04
- International Classification of Headache Disorders, 3rd edition (ICHD-3).
- Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine — Neurology sections.
- American Academy of Neurology guidelines for selected conditions (where applicable).
Content is educational and aligns with standard medical references; individual evaluation may vary. External links provide context and do not imply endorsement.