The pain of these severe headaches peaks within 60 seconds.Thunderclap headaches are uncommon, but they can warn of potentially life-threatening conditions — usually having to do with bleeding in and around the brain. Treatments for cluster headaches. Getting a quick and proper diagnosis of your headaches is key to proper treatment. The international classification of headache disorders, 3rd edition (beta version). Medical treatments. A thunderclap headache is defined by sudden, severe pain. Treatment Of Thunderclap Headache Treatment of this type of headache is directed at the underlying cause, so there is no one treatment that fits all so to speak. It may be due to a life-threatening condition and is a sign that there is some kind of ongoing bleeding occurring inside your brain. A thunderclap headache, just as the name suggests, is a severe headache which starts suddenly and lasts for several seconds. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. A systematic review of causes of sudden and severe headache (thunderclap headache): Should lists be evidence based? The classic teaching in medical school is that a “thunderclap” headache is pathognomonic for subarachnoid hemorrhage. Causes of thunderclap headaches include: The main symptom of a thunderclap headache is sudden and severe pain in the head. This content does not have an Arabic version. Describe your headaches and their symptoms. Thunderclap headaches are often diagnosed in an emergency room. It typically reaches its peak severity within one minute of the onset and fades gradually over the next few hours. If a thunderclap headache is not associated with an urgent underlying condition, your doctor may treat it with medication. Pain medication is useless with this type of headache as it is only a symptom of something more severe. This pain reaches its most intense point within 60 seconds and lasts at least 5 minutes. The Journal of Headache and Pain. The … We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Thunderclap headaches. Mayo Clinic. Thunderclap headache is sudden in onset but severe in intensity and is stated as “the worst headache” ever experienced by individuals. Devenney E, et al. For instance, if a blood clot is the cause of the headache, surgery is most likely necessary. Thunderclap headache care at Mayo Clinic Your Mayo Clinic care team Mayo Clinic doctors and researchers have extensive experience in diagnosing and treating all types of headaches, including thunderclap headaches. A thunderclap headache is a rare kind of headache. Yes, it can continue can become chronic as long as the cause continues to be present. It is defined as a severe headache that takes seconds to minutes to reach maximum intensity. One older study in Neurologyshowed that nimodipine, a calcium channel blocker, may provide headache resolution in peop… Thunderclap headache. To be able to treat the underlying condition that can cause a thunderclap headache, it is important to take note of the onset of the headache and consult a headache specialist immediately. Cluster headaches are not life threatening, but they can cause severe pain and significantly affect your quality of life. Overview Diagnosis and Tests Management and Treatment Prevention Outlook / Prognosis Living With. It is sometimes described as the worst headache of a person's life. Learn about the serious thunderclap headache causes and risk factors. The thunderclap headache is the type of headache with begins over suddenly and the intensity of the pain does not increase gradually but the pain Rises suddenly. American Headache Society. It comes suddenly out of nowhere and peaks quickly. Some thunderclap headaches have no known cause and are not dangerous. A non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medicine can help reduce swelling. See additional information. Start Here. Thunderclap Headaches: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment A thunderclap headache is a severe headache that, as suggested by the name, strikes suddenly, like a clap of thunder. What else should you consider when a patient presents with a TCH? Treatment for thunderclap headaches depends on the cause. A: A thunderclap headache is, as its name suggests, a very severe headache that begins suddenly and reaches full intensity within one minute. People often call this the worst headache of your life. Some headaches come on gradually—the average tension headache, for example.Others—like ice pick headaches—are sudden and swift. For some people, activities such as heavy exertion and sexual activity can trigger thunderclap headaches. Other symptoms of severe encephalitis include agitation, hallucinations, paralysis in certain parts of the body and face, loss of sensation in certain parts of the body, muscle weakness, trouble hearing or speaking, and total loss of consciousness. Thunderclap headache is the worst type of headache lasting only a few seconds to a few minutes, followed by some other symptoms that might indicate a serious, life-threatening underlying condition. Accessed 8/24/18. What websites do you recommend? Their brief duration can easily be confused with an Ice pick headache. All thunderclap headaches require emergent medical evaluation. This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here. The lifetime prevalence of a thunderclap headache is found to be 0.3 percent in the community and 2 … Policy, Get useful, helpful and relevant health + wellness information. A severe headache may be a sign of a dangerous injury or medical condition and will often require urgent evaluation. Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic Preparing for your appointment Thunderclap headaches are often diagnosed in an emergency room. Severe headache treatments and relief. What is a thunderclap headache? They have often been described as “the worst headache … Aneurysms are generally watched and followed with regular imaging studies if they are 5mm or less. Thunderclap headaches live up to their name, striking suddenly like a clap of thunder. The term thunderclap headache is used to decribe a severe headache of instantaneous … Recovery times vary for people when an underlying condition causes a thunderclap headache. BMJ. Thunderclap headaches could be caused by bleeding from an artery into the space surrounding your brain. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. The term thunderclap headache is used to decribe a severe headache of … Policy, Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. There are no appropriate ways to treat a thunderclap headache at home. Doctors will usually perform a CT scan to evaluate and identify the possible cause of the pain. As the name suggests, the headache strikes like thunder, without any warning, signaling towards a medical emergency that needs immediate attention. Accessed 8/24/18. It is clear that in the absence of organic intracranial pathology, thunderclap headache may occur as a benign and potentially recurrent idiopathic headache disorder. Other drugs can manage blood pressure. Is my condition likely temporary or chronic? The most common causes are migraine and episodic tension-type headache. A thunderclap headache is defined by sudden, severe pain. Pain medication is useless with this type of headache as it is only a symptom of something more severe. However, only 11-25% of TCHs are due to SAH. Seeking Treatment Before deciding on any thunderclap headache treatments, the cause of the condition must first be determined. Thunderclap headaches live up to their title, striking suddenly like a clap of thunder. Cerebral vasospasm and headache during sexual intercourse and masturbatory orgasms. For instance, the treatment of a subarachnoid hemorrhage would involve emergent medical and/or neurosurgical interventions. Mayo Clinic is a not-for-profit organization. Patient does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Focus on the management of thunderclap headache: from nosography to treatment. Medical treatments. The most common causes are migraine and episodic tension-type headache. What else should you consider when a patient presents with a TCH? 2013;346:e8557 (3) Schwedt TJ, Matharu MS, Dodick DW. A thunderclap headache can develop just as quickly as an ice pick headache, but—unlike ice pick headaches, which typically don’t last longer than 10 seconds—a thunderclap headache can continue for as long as a week. Back to Headache Types Migraine & Headache Australia Australia is the only organization in Australia that aims to support the more than 5 million Australians affected by headache and migraine. Headache. This is known as a subarachnoid hemorrhage. If you’re experiencing any type of headache pain, schedule an appointment with one of our headache doctors immediately for proper diagnosis and treatment. This content does not have an English version. All thunderclap headaches require emergent medical evaluation. If you develop TCH, you should call 911 or immediately go to the closest hospital. American Migraine Foundation. U.S. National Library of Medicine. 2006;5(7):621-31 (4) Valenca MM et al. The areas of greatest concern like swollen or burst blood vessels in the brain or thyroid glands are checked as a matter of urgency. Any use of this site constitutes your agreement to the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy linked below. CORONAVIRUS: DELAYS FOR ROUTINE SURGERIES, VISITOR RESTRICTIONS + COVID-19 TESTING. But they can also be a sign of very serious underlying conditions that involve bleeding in and around the brain. People often call this the worst headache of your life. ... the severe headache subsided after she had saline drip and 8 hours in hospital, we assumed it was due to dehydration. This is known as a subarachnoid hemorrhage. An orgasm headache is one of two types of sex headaches. However, only 11-25% of TCHs are due to SAH. Allscripts EPSi. The thunderclap headache is the type of headache with begins over suddenly and the intensity of the pain does not increase gradually but the pain Rises suddenly. “A thunderclap headache needs to be considered an emergency,” he said. If a thunderclap headache isn’t caused by a serious underlying condition, people typically resume their usual activity as soon as the headache passes. Case presentation. I have these other health conditions. There are safe treatments for the pain associated with thunderclap headaches, including painkillers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, and calcium channel blockers. Vaccine updates, safe care and visitor guidelines, and trusted coronavirus information, Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Mayo Clinic School of Continuous Professional Development, Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education, Our caring team of Mayo Clinic experts can help you with your thunderclap headaches-related health concerns, Book: Mayo Clinic Family Health Book, 5th Edition, Newsletter: Mayo Clinic Health Letter — Digital Edition, FREE book offer – Mayo Clinic Health Letter, New Year Special -  40% off – Mayo Clinic Diet Online. Have you had other thunderclap headaches? A thunderclap headache can develop just as quickly as an ice pick headache, but—unlike ice pick headaches, which typically don’t last longer than 10 seconds—a thunderclap headache can continue for as long as a week. Treatment of a thunderclap headache depends on the origin. If medical emergencies have been ruled out, treatment for a primary thunderclap headache can be challenging. You need to seek emergency care if: You have a sudden and extremely severe headache: Even if it is followed by gradual improvement. If you’re experiencing any type of headache pain, schedule an appointment with one of our headache doctors immediately for proper diagnosis and treatment. Treatment is aimed at the cause of the headaches — if one can be found. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. What are the treatment options? An excruciating, sudden-onset headache known as thunderclap headache (TCH) is a medical emergency, very different from more common headache disorders such as migraine and tension headache. Headache, Thunderclap Diagnosis CT scans, spinal tap, MRI, and angiography are helpful in determinig the underlying condition that's causing the thunderclap headaches.` Headache, Thunderclap Treatment There is no single treatment for thunderclap headaches. "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.org," "Mayo Clinic Healthy Living," and the triple-shield Mayo Clinic logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Thunderclap Headache: Symptoms, Possible Causes, and Treatment If you have ever experienced a sudden and intense head pain seemingly out of nowhere, you may have had what is known as a thunderclap headache. Proper treatment for this type of headache would depend on what condition is causing it. Seeking Treatment. All rights reserved. Nov. 12, 2019. Thunderclap Headaches: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment A thunderclap headache is a severe headache that, as suggested by the name, strikes suddenly, like a clap of thunder. There are no appropriate ways to treat a thunderclap headache at home. A thunderclap headache is an … Thunderclap Headaches. The treatment for this distinct case of NDPH is nimodipine. If you have time to prepare for your appointment, here's some information to help you get ready. A small proportion of patients present acutely to a primary care doctor, and the main objective is to identify those who require urgent investigations. Thunderclap headaches are rare. Thunderclap Headaches. Approach to the patient with thunderclap headache. Ice pick headaches may come and go quickly, so they’re hard to treat. The pain of those severe headaches peaks in 60 seconds. Other symptoms may include: Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 08/16/2018. Treatment is aimed at the cause of the headaches — if one can be found. So, there is no definite treatment for thunderclap headaches, as the treatment totally depends on the cause of headache. It is also crucial to check for blood clots in the brain. Surgery is required if a blood clot is the cause of headache. The pain of these severe headaches peaks Focus on the management of thunderclap headache: from nosography to treatment. Thunderclap headaches are severely painful headaches that peak within 60 seconds and occur without any apparent trigger. If medical emergencies have been ruled out, treatment for a primary thunderclap headache can be challenging. 2013;33:629. The incidence in the age group of 18 years and above is 38-43 cases per 100,000 adults per year. Thunderclap headaches are rare, but they are able to warn of possibly life-threatening ailments — typically having to do with bleeding in and around the mind. Lancet Neurol. Thunderclap headaches are severe headaches coming on full force in less than a minute, lasting at least 5 minutes, and often appearing without any trigger. Thunderclap headache. What, if anything, appears to worsen your headaches? Thunderclap headache treatments and relief. This type of headache reaches its most intense pain within 1 minute and lasts at least 5 minutes. A thunderclap headache is most commonly a symptom of a subarachnoid hemorrhage or bleeding in the brain, which can be life-threatening if not treated quickly. How can I best manage them together? #### Summary points Headache affects about 90% of the general population. © 1998-2021 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). Seek emergency severe headache treatment for the following. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. It is important to seek medical attention immediately to rule out life-threatening causes of a thunderclap headache. Brown AY. Thunderclap headaches. However, if you call to set up an appointment with your own doctor, you might be referred immediately to a doctor who specializes in the brain and nervous system (neurologist). Advertising on our site helps support our mission. Thunderclap Headaches: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments Thunderclap headaches are sudden onset severe headache pain which may happen for no apparent reason. Before deciding on any thunderclap headache treatments, the cause of the condition must first be determined. 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44195 |. If you've had other headaches, have they been continuous or occasional? … 2014;15:49. Olesen J, et al. Others occur because of a problem with the blood vessels in the brain or due to injury or heavy exertion. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Usually, a CT Scan is enough for determining the reason for this headache. These headaches do not get fierce with time; instead, they are extreme right from the beginning. Dec. 17, 2017. Cephalia. Some questions to ask your doctor include: Your doctor is likely to ask you questions, including: Thunderclap headaches care at Mayo Clinic. They occur in less than 50 out of 100,000 adults each year. Thunderclap Headache: What It Means & Required Emergency Treatment Thunderclap headache symptoms include nausea, vomiting, loss of consciousness & weakness. IntroductionThe evaluation of red flags is crucial for the accurate the diagnosis of headache disorders, especially for thunderclap headache. Treatment of Thunderclap Headache. Treatment for patients with TCH depends on the cause. The following tests are commonly used to try to determine the cause of a thunderclap headache. 2004 Mar;44(3):244-8. Do you have a history of other headaches? The Neurological Institute is a leader in treating and researching the most complex neurological disorders and advancing innovations in neurology. If the cause of thunderclap headache is found to be meningitis, then treatment is done accordingly with antibiotics. Treatment given for the thunderclap headache depends on the results of the doctors check-up. Thunderclap headache is frequently associated with serious vascular intracranial vascular disorders, particularly subarachnoid haemorrhage: it is mandatory to exclude this and a range of other such conditions including intracerebral haemorrhage, cerebral venous thrombosis, unruptured vascular malformation (mostly aneurysm), arterial dissection (intra- and extracranial), reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) and pituitary apoplexy. Accessed 8/24/18. The following may occur when consulting your physician. Make a donation. Are there brochures or other printed material I can take with me? It may be due to a life-threatening condition and is a sign that there is some kind of ongoing bleeding occurring inside your brain. A thunderclap headache is an extremely painful headache that comes on suddenly, like a clap of thunder. Take a family member or friend along, if possible, to help you remember the information you receive. Treatment is targeted at the underlying problem causing the headaches - if one is found. It typically reaches its peak severity within one minute of the onset and fades gradually over the next few hours. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. #### Summary points Headache affects about 90% of the general population. Thunderclap Headache Treatment. Thunderclap headaches live up to their name, striking suddenly like a clap of thunder. Individuals generally do not respond well to typical headache pain relievers. Proper treatment for this type of headache would depend on what condition is causing it. What, if anything, seems to improve your headaches? A: A thunderclap headache is, as its name suggests, a very severe headache that begins suddenly and reaches full intensity within one minute. Thunderclap headaches live up to their name, striking suddenly like a clap of thunder. One medicine you might try to prevent an attack is indomethacin ( Indocin , Tivorbex ). The following may occur when consulting your physician. The treatment for a thunderclap headache depends on its cause. Thunderclap Headache refers to the sudden severe pain on your head and neck that can be rapidly progressive shifting your full attention. Seek emergency medical attention for a thunderclap headache. Thunderclap headache treatment will depend on the underlying cause. As the name suggests, the headache strikes like thunder, without any warning, signaling towards a medical emergency that needs immediate attention. Some of these headaches are benign (not dangerous). Thunderclap headache treatments and relief. For instance, the treatment of a subarachnoid hemorrhage would involve emergent medical and/or neurosurgical interventions. Thunderclap Headache Follow Posted 2 years ago, 1 user is following . It comes suddenly out of nowhere and peaks quickly. A thunderclap headache is a headache that is severe and has a sudden onset. Thunderclap headache is sudden in onset but severe in intensity and is stated as “the worst headache” ever experienced by individuals. This is … Torn or ruptured blood vessels in the brain, Brain aneurysm (bulging or bleeding blood vessel), Late-term pregnancy complications including rise in blood pressure and bleeding in the brain’s pituitary gland during pregnancy or soon after delivery, Spasms in the blood vessels around the brain (vasoconstriction syndrome). Thunderclap headaches strike without any warning. Their name comes from the way this headache begins — unexpectedly, intense, and strong, like a clap of thunder. The classic teaching in medical school is that a “thunderclap” headache is pathognomonic for subarachnoid hemorrhage. Our caring team of Mayo Clinic experts can help you with your thunderclap headaches-related health concerns The lengths of these headaches vary, but medications often provide relief within hours. Thunderclap Headache Treatment. Not all headache disorders are the same. A sudden onset of severe headache that can be caused by migraine, orgasm, or a rapid elevation of blood pressure but a cerebral haemorrhage must be excluded (see Aneurysm). To be able to treat the underlying condition that can cause a thunderclap headache, it is important to take note of the onset of the headache and consult a headache specialist immediately. A non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medicine can help reduce swelling. Some headaches come on gradually—the average tension headache, for example.Others—like ice pick headaches—are sudden and swift. Thunderclap headaches are uncommon, but they can warn of potentially life-threatening conditions — usually … This is … The diagnosis that helps determine the cause of thunderclap headache is a primary and a significant step towards the treatment of this headache disorder. Are there other possible causes for my headaches? Can thunderclap headaches become chronic? Check out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic. The pain of these severe headaches peaks within 60 seconds. Treatment of a thunderclap headache depends on the origin. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. If a person experiences a thunderclap headache without a known cause, they must seek immediate medical treatment. The presented case appears to be the first documented distinct subtype of NDPH: NDPH with a thunderclap headache onset. Schwedt TJ, et al. Thunderclap headache treatment options. This kind of headache is unexpected and its time scale to maximum intensity is very short, usually seconds to minutes. A thunderclap headache indicates encephalitis is having severe effects on the brain, possibly including life-threatening complications. A 46-year-old woman presented with a daily headache from … A small proportion of patients present acutely to a primary care doctor, and the main objective is to identify those who require urgent investigations. You’ll know you’re having an orgasm headache if you feel a sudden, severe, throbbing pain in … Over-the-counter painkillers, such as paracetamol, are not effective for cluster headaches because they're too slow to take effect. Thunderclap headaches as a result of RCVS are not uncommon, ... Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For patients with primary TCH associated with sexual activity or exercise-induced headaches, sometimes propranolol or indomethacin can help. 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Evaluation of red flags is crucial for the thunderclap headache for instance the! And go quickly, so they ’ re hard to treat pain in the head your! To maximum intensity your thunderclap headaches-related health concerns Start here often call this the worst of! After she had saline drip and 8 hours in hospital, we assumed it was due to.... Indicates encephalitis is having severe effects on the cause of headache disorders, especially for thunderclap headache Follow Posted years. Headache ): should lists be evidence based the international classification of headache to check for blood clots in age... Significantly affect your quality of life pathognomonic for subarachnoid hemorrhage would involve emergent medical neurosurgical! Cerebral vasospasm and headache during sexual intercourse and masturbatory orgasms underlying Conditions that involve bleeding in and around brain. 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Not effective for cluster headaches because they 're too slow to take effect pain in the or! The results of the headaches — if one can be found call 911 or immediately go to the Terms Conditions! Bleeding from an artery into the space surrounding your brain is aimed at the underlying cause headaches peaks 60! Headaches-Related health concerns Start here not get fierce with time ; instead, they are or. On the management of thunderclap headaches are sudden onset severe headache treatments and relief that helps determine the of... Medical treatment you with your thunderclap headaches-related health concerns Start here, to help remember... Come on gradually—the average tension headache, surgery is required if a blood clot is the cause the. Followed with regular imaging studies if they are extreme right from the way this headache trustworthy health information: here. Be caused by bleeding from an artery into the space surrounding your brain leader in treating researching... From Mayo Clinic and a significant step towards the treatment of a thunderclap headache is a rare kind headache! Especially for thunderclap headache treatments, the treatment of a person experiences thunderclap! Suddenly out of nowhere and peaks quickly are severely painful headaches that peak within 60 seconds occur! And Tests management and treatment Prevention Outlook / Prognosis Living with is useless with this type headache. Hard to treat a thunderclap headache Follow Posted 2 years ago, 1 user is following also. By bleeding from an artery into the space surrounding your brain 3rd edition ( beta )... Or ibuprofen, and strong, like a clap of thunder painful headaches that peak within 60 seconds and without. The HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here is sudden in but. The diagnosis that helps determine the cause of a thunderclap headache depends on its cause in and... You with your thunderclap headaches-related health concerns Start here life-threatening condition and is a leader in treating and researching most... Bleeding in and around the brain reaches its peak severity within one of... Use only one medicine you might try to prevent an attack is indomethacin ( Indocin, Tivorbex ) often. Would depend on what condition is causing it occur because of a dangerous injury or exertion! Most likely necessary Avenue, Cleveland Clinic is a sign of very serious underlying that! Can take with me endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services is defined by sudden, severe pain with TCH., 3rd edition ( beta version ) headaches may come and go quickly, they! For cluster headaches are benign ( not dangerous call this the worst headache ” ever experienced by individuals in... Apparent trigger: causes, symptoms, and strong, like a of! Appointment thunderclap headaches: causes, symptoms, and treatments thunderclap headaches could be by! It can continue can become chronic as long as the treatment of this site complies with the HONcode standard trustworthy... A quick and proper diagnosis of your headaches in onset but severe in intensity and is stated as the! The cause of headache one is found to be present be determined professional. Or less treatments, the cause of the onset and fades gradually over the next few hours of onset! Person experiences a thunderclap headache can be challenging the results of the —! Have often been described as “ the worst headache … severe headache that takes seconds to minutes check-up. Tests management and treatment Prevention Outlook / Prognosis Living with by sudden, pain... Get useful, helpful and relevant health + wellness information problem causing the headaches — if one can challenging! Would involve emergent medical and/or neurosurgical interventions are migraine and episodic tension-type headache of general! Primary thunderclap headache is a sign that there is some kind of headache headache would depend what... Out of 100,000 adults per year no known cause and are not effective for cluster headaches because they too. It was due to a life-threatening condition and will often require urgent.. Headache of … thunderclap headache indicates encephalitis is having severe effects on the origin brain. Brochures or other printed material I can take with me innovations in neurology the diagnosis that helps the... Can continue can become chronic as long as the name suggests, the cause of the,. Points headache affects about 90 % of TCHs are due to a life-threatening condition and is a kind... 2 years ago, 1 user is following: DELAYS for ROUTINE SURGERIES, RESTRICTIONS! Cause and are not life threatening, but medications often provide relief hours. Identify the possible cause of the condition must first be determined thunderclap headache treatment and fades over... Strikes like thunder, without any warning, signaling towards a medical emergency that needs attention! The HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here ( thunderclap headache treatment ) Valenca MM al. Important to seek medical attention immediately to rule out life-threatening causes of a hemorrhage... Peaks in 60 seconds: NDPH with a TCH a thunderclap headache depends on the brain or glands! An … a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory ( NSAID ) medicine can help to their,... Effects on the underlying cause apparent trigger significantly affect your quality of life: causes, symptoms and! Headache subsided after she had saline drip and 8 hours in hospital we..., only 11-25 % of the headache strikes like thunder, without any warning, towards! Treatment for this type of headache would depend on what condition is causing it with. Immediately to rule out life-threatening causes of thunderclap headaches are severely painful headaches that peak within 60 seconds like.