Saturday, October 5, 2013

Health tip: Don't ignore "thunderclap" headaches

I've been doing a little research on "reversible cerebral vasoconstrictive disorder" following a friend's health scare. One of the warning signs of this condition is recurring thunderclap headaches. I'd never even heard the term.
Here's your take-home message: If you or anyone you know ever experiences a sudden, severe headache--as in, a headache that could be described as the worst headache ever--seek immediate medical attention.
According to the Mayo Clinic, the headaches get their name from the fact that they grab your attention like a clap of thunder. The intense pain peaks within about 60 seconds then usually starts to fade after an hour but can last several days.
"Thunderclap headaches are uncommon, but they can be a warning sign of potentially life-threatening conditions — usually having to do with bleeding in and around the brain," the Mayo Clinic website states. "That's why it's so important to seek emergency medical attention if you experience a thunderclap headache."
Pass it on.

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