Please note: This guide explains common patterns. It cannot determine what is happening to a particular person, and it does not replace medical assessment.
- StartSudden or gradual; first episode or recurring
- PatternDuration, frequency, triggers and recovery
- Associated signsWeakness, fever, confusion, vision or speech change
- EvidenceMedicine list, reports and a safe video when available
Headache clues
Most headaches are not caused by a dangerous problem, but the pattern matters. Keep track of onset, location, severity, triggers, nausea, light sensitivity and medicine use. Emergency assessment is needed for a sudden “worst” headache, headache with weakness, speech difficulty, confusion, fever and stiff neck, serious head injury, or a major new pattern in pregnancy.
What to do during a seizure
Move hazards away, cushion the head, loosen tight clothing and turn the person onto their side when possible. Time the seizure. Do not hold them down, put anything in the mouth, or give food, drink or medicine until fully alert. Call emergency services for a first seizure, injury, breathing difficulty, pregnancy, seizure in water, a seizure lasting five minutes, or repeated seizures without recovery.
Movement and memory changes
Tremor, stiffness, slowness, imbalance, involuntary movements and falls need a neurological history and examination. Memory complaints may arise from neurological disease, depression, sleep problems, medicines or medical illness. Sudden one-sided weakness, facial droop, loss of balance or speech difficulty can be stroke and requires immediate emergency care.
What neurological assessment may include
The clinician reviews the symptom timeline, consciousness, injuries, medicines, substances, family history and associated physical signs. A neurological examination assesses strength, sensation, coordination, reflexes, walking, speech and thinking. Tests such as blood work, EEG or imaging are recommended only when clinically indicated.
Preparing for a consultation
A clear history helps the doctor understand what has changed and what support may be appropriate. If possible, bring a trusted family member and:
- a precise timeline, frequency and duration
- a safe video of an episode if one already exists
- all medicines, prior scans, EEG reports and blood tests
- details of fever, injury, substance use and recovery after episodes
Read about the consulting neurologist’s profile, or request an appointment. A WhatsApp request is not confirmed until the clinic replies.
Trusted sources and further reading
This article uses general guidance from public-health and research organisations. The links are for education, not personal diagnosis.