Patient Guide: When to See a Doctor?

Sudden Severe Headache: "The worst headache of my life" — could be a subarachnoid haemorrhage. A headache that peaks within minutes requires emergency evaluation.^1,2

Sudden Loss of Strength or Speech Impairment: Facial asymmetry, weakness in the arm/leg, speech impairment — signs of a stroke. The first 4.5 hours are critical.^3,4

Loss or Alteration of Consciousness: Post-traumatic or spontaneous confusion, loss of wakefulness.

Loss of Bowel/Bladder Control + Leg Weakness: Could be cauda equina syndrome — surgery may be required within 24-48 hours.^5,6

After Head Trauma: Vomiting, alteration of consciousness, abnormal behaviour, unilateral pupil dilation.

Conditions Requiring Prompt Evaluation

Progressively worsening headache (especially in the morning and with vomiting), progressive weakness in the arm or leg, new-onset seizure (epilepsy), vision loss or double vision, balance disorder and falling, difficulty swallowing.

Preparation Before Seeing a Doctor

Note down your symptoms (when they started, what triggers them, what relieves them). Bring a list of the medications you use. Have your previous MRI/CT scans with you (on CD or digitally). Provide your surgical history and chronic conditions.

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