Do headaches kill brain cells?

A. As far as we know, migraine does not kill brain cells like drugs and alcohol do. But you are not alone in having concerns about memory loss. The feeling of not being able to think straight, or remember as well as before, is one of the more debilitating aspects of frequent migraine.

What are the dangers of headaches?

When to Call the Doctor Your headache comes on suddenly and is explosive or violent. Your headache is “the worst ever,” even if you regularly get headaches. You also have slurred speech, a change in vision, problems moving your arms or legs, loss of balance, confusion, or memory loss with your headache.

Can headaches cause memory loss?

Can headaches cause forgetfulness? No, headaches themselves do not commonly cause memory loss. Memory loss is a serious symptom that can be caused by a process affecting the brain. A headache and memory loss can be signs indicating a stroke.

When is a headache serious?

The following headache symptoms mean you should get medical help right away: A sudden, new, severe headache that comes with: Weakness, dizziness, sudden loss of balance or falling, numbness or tingling, or can’t move your body. Trouble with speech, confusion, seizures, personality changes, or inappropriate behavior.

How does a migraine affect the brain?

Migraines can cause permanent brain damage, especially in those who experience flashing lights before the onset, a study has found. Experts have discovered that migraines, which affect 10 to 15 per cent of the population, raise the risk of “white matter” brain lesions and altered brain volume compared with people without the disorder.

What are the long term effects of migraine?

Long term effects of migraine. Don’t forget, the pain itself can cause a great deal of damage. You may find knots and tightness in your muscles, emotional concerns, a lack of proper exercise, the effects of medications on the body. Your body may be going through a lot more than you think – much more than just pain in the head.

When is a headache a sign of a brain tumor?

While headaches can be a symptom of brain tumors, those that are truly tumor-related usually have distinct characteristics or are combined with other symptoms, such as vomiting. In fact, seizures are usually the first sign that a brain tumor might be present.