Can Cancer Cause Headaches?
May 22, 2024 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Yes, cancer can cause headaches in several ways. While headaches are a common symptom and often not related to cancer, certain types of cancer and their treatments can lead to headaches. Here are some scenarios where cancer might cause headaches:
- Brain Tumors: Primary brain tumors or metastatic cancer that has spread to the brain can cause headaches. These headaches can be persistent, severe, and often different from typical headaches. They may be accompanied by other neurological symptoms such as seizures, changes in vision, nausea, vomiting, or altered mental status.
- Increased Intracranial Pressure: Tumors in the brain or spinal cord can increase intracranial pressure, leading to headaches. This can occur because of the tumor itself or because of the buildup of cerebrospinal fluid (hydrocephalus).
- Cancer Treatments: Treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and certain medications can cause headaches as a side effect. For instance, some chemotherapeutic agents can cause toxicity or inflammation that leads to headaches.
- Paraneoplastic Syndromes: These are rare disorders that occur when the immune system’s response to a cancer also affects the nervous system, potentially leading to headaches.
- Secondary Effects: Cancer can indirectly cause headaches through secondary effects such as anemia, infections, dehydration, or side effects from medications used to treat cancer and manage symptoms.
If you or someone you know is experiencing persistent or severe headaches and there is a concern about cancer, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider. They can conduct a thorough evaluation, including imaging and other diagnostic tests, to determine the cause of the headaches and recommend appropriate treatment.