Thunderclap headache
Severe head pain with sudden onset, reaching its maximum intensity in less than one minute and lasting from one hour to ten days.
Conditions associated with thunderclap headache
The following conditions have been associated with thunderclap headache in medical literature. This is informational and not a diagnosis.
Pituitary apoplexy
Pituitary apoplexy is a medical condition that may be associated with various symptoms and signs....
Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome
Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome is a medical condition that may be associated with various sympt...
Sheehan syndrome
Sheehan syndrome is a medical condition that may be associated with various symptoms and signs....
Tests providers may use to investigate thunderclap headache
When investigating thunderclap headache, a healthcare provider may order one or more of the following laboratory tests. Test selection is a clinical decision made by a qualified professional.
CBC with Differential
Measures red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets to help evaluate overall health and detect disorder...
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
Measures 14 substances in the blood to assess kidney and liver function, electrolyte balance, and blood sugar ...
Urinalysis
Examines urine content to help detect urinary tract infections, kidney disease, and diabetes....
Symptoms commonly seen alongside thunderclap headache
Constipation
Infrequent or difficult evacuation of feces....
Fatigue
A subjective feeling of tiredness characterized by a lack of energy and motivation....
Fever
Body temperature elevated above the normal range....
Headache
Cephalgia, or pain sensed in various parts of the head, not confined to the area of distribution of any nerve....
Muscle weakness
Reduced strength of muscles....
Seizure
A seizure is an intermittent abnormality of nervous system physiology characterized by a transient occurrence ...
When to seek care
Seek care from a qualified healthcare provider if thunderclap headache is severe, persistent, worsening, or accompanied by concerning symptoms. If you think you have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the symptom thunderclap headache mean?
Thunderclap headache is a health sign or symptom described in medical literature. Severe head pain with sudden onset, reaching its maximum intensity in less than one minute and lasting from one hour to ten days.
Which conditions are associated with thunderclap headache?
Thunderclap headache has been reported in association with 3 conditions in the medical literature we index, including Pituitary apoplexy, Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome, Sheehan syndrome. These associations do not mean you have any of these conditions.
Should I see a doctor about thunderclap headache?
You should discuss any persistent or concerning symptoms with a qualified healthcare provider. This website does not provide diagnosis. If you have severe symptoms or signs of a medical emergency, seek care immediately.