Organic headache

Low urgency
-Moderately severe
This is the name for the headache caused by a disease of the inside of the skull (bleeding, tumors, infections or internal fluid accumulation). It is a rare but potentially serious cause. It is more common at around 40 years old. There is often persistent pain together with nausea, vomiting, photophobia and other neurological symptoms. It is considered a medical emergency: go to a hospital with tomography, particularly if there is a low level of consciousness, convulsions, a headache that does not subside with painkillers, or severe impairment of mobility. Apart from a complete clinical examination, imaging tests of the brain are also carried out. Treatment is targeted at the cause of the pain using strong painkillers.
Bibliographic references
  1. Zahid H Bajwa, R Joshua Wootton. Evaluation of headache in adults. UpToDate. Jan 22, 2016.
  2. Christine L Lay, Christina Sun-Edelstein. Brain tumor headache. UpToDate. Nov 30, 2015.
  3. Urbano-Márquez A. Estruch R. Neurología. Generalidades. Cefalalgias. Farreras Rozman. Medicina Interna. Volumen 2. 12º edición: 1319-1320.
  4. Goadsby PJ. Raskin NH. Migraña y otras cefaleas primarias. Harrison. Principios de Medicina Interna. Volumen 2. 19º Edición: 2586-2598.
  5. Goadsby PJ, Raskin NH. Cefaleas. Harrison. Principios de Medicina Interna. Volumen 1. 19º Edición: 107-111.
Author
Dr. Sara Vitoria
Copyright
© TeckelMedical 2026

Symptoms

    Headache


    Diminished state of consciousness


    Neurological symptoms: impaired speech, physical strength or feeling


    Drowsiness


    Loss of balance when walking

Symptoms to watch out for

Vomiting
Fever (temperature higher than 100.4 ºF)
If it is accompanied by seizures
If the pain doesn't go away with either over-the-counter painkillers or those previously prescribed by your general practitioner
Loss of sensibility and/or motility in limbs

Self-care

Lie down in a dark, quiet room.
Use over-the-counter pain relievers and consult your primary care physician to discuss other treatments.
Avoid caffeine, alcohol, smoking, and/or screen time.