Most Headaches Are Harmless, but Knowing the Warning Signs Matters, Say Medanta Experts

Headaches are a common part of life for many people and are often triggered by everyday factors such as stress, lack of sleep, dehydration, skipped meals, or excessive screen time. While most headaches resolve with rest and simple remedies, neurologists at Gurugram-based Medanta- The Medicity, ranked India’s best hospital by Newsweek in 2026, say being aware of certain warning signs can help people seek timely medical attention when needed.

Advances in diagnosis and treatment have made it possible to effectively manage many conditions that may present with headaches, particularly when they are identified early. Dr. Jyoti Sehgal, Director, Neurology at Medanta Gurugram, said, “Headaches are among the most common symptoms we see in clinical practice, and in the vast majority of cases they are not linked to a serious illness. At the same time, persistent, unusually severe, or recurring headaches should not be ignored. Early evaluation helps us identify the cause and, where required, begin treatment promptly, leading to better outcomes for patients.”

One of the most common causes of recurring headaches is migraine, a neurological condition that can cause throbbing pain, often on one side of the head, along with sensitivity to light, sound, or smell. Although migraines can significantly affect daily life, Dr. Sehgal said they can often be managed successfully through medication, lifestyle modifications, and preventive therapies.

Headaches may also occasionally be associated with conditions such as infections of the nervous system, stroke, brain aneurysms, or brain tumours. Dr. Sehgal emphasized that modern medical care offers effective treatment options for many of these conditions, particularly when symptoms are recognised early and medical advice is sought without delay.

Neurologists advise paying attention to headaches that are accompanied by symptoms such as repeated vomiting, difficulty speaking, weakness in the arms or legs, double vision, seizures, or sudden changes in consciousness. Such symptoms warrant immediate medical assessment.

At the same time, maintaining healthy daily habits can go a long way in preventing common headaches. Staying hydrated, getting adequate sleep, managing stress, eating meals on time, and taking regular breaks from screens can all help reduce the frequency of headaches. Gentle stretching, relaxation exercises, and warm compresses may also provide relief.

Dr. Sehgal said, “The key message is not to be anxious about every headache, but to be informed. Most headaches are manageable, and even when they point to an underlying condition, timely diagnosis and treatment can make a significant difference.”

Residents of Dibrugarh and nearby areas can consult Dr. Jyoti Sehgal on 20th June, 2026 at Dibrugarh Medicity, Circuit House Road, AMC Rd, Dibrugarh, Assam 786001.
For appointments: +91 7086293152.

Medanta has launched a dedicated helpline — +91 8904395588 — to improve access to care across the North East, with support in Assamese, Bengali, Nagamese, English and Hindi. Available from 8 am to 8 pm, it assists with doctor selection and appointments.

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