When to See a Doctor: The SNOOP Red Flags
The warning signs that mean a headache needs urgent medical assessment, not self-management.
- •Most headaches are primary (the headache is the condition) — but SNOOP flags identify the small number that aren't.
- •SNOOP: Systemic symptoms, Neurological signs, sudden Onset, Older age of onset, Pattern change / Positional / Pregnancy.
- •A thunderclap headache or new neurological symptoms warrant emergency care, not a GP appointment.
- •HeadacheRecovery is a tracking and self-management tool — it does not replace clinical assessment.
Want to apply this context to your own experience?
See how the App worksWhy SNOOP matters
Most headaches are primary — meaning the headache itself is the condition. But a small number are secondary, caused by something else that needs urgent attention. SNOOP is a clinical mnemonic used to flag headaches that require medical assessment rather than self-management.
S — Systemic symptoms or signs
Fever, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or a history that includes cancer, HIV, or being immunocompromised. Headache with any of these warrants prompt review.
N — Neurological symptoms or signs
Confusion, altered consciousness, weakness or numbness on one side, vision loss, difficulty speaking, seizures, or loss of balance. Any new neurological symptom alongside headache is urgent.
O — Onset
A sudden, severe headache that peaks within seconds to minutes — often called a "thunderclap" headache. This requires emergency assessment.
O — Older age of onset
A new or significantly changed headache pattern in someone over 50 should be assessed by a clinician.
P — Pattern change or Positional / Pregnancy
A clear change in your usual headache pattern (frequency, severity, character), headache that is consistently worse when lying down or with coughing/straining, or a new headache during pregnancy or postpartum.
What to do
If any SNOOP flag applies, contact your GP or seek urgent medical care. A thunderclap headache or new neurological symptoms warrant emergency services. HeadacheRecovery is a tracking and self-management tool — it is not a substitute for clinical assessment.
Key takeaways
- ✓SNOOP is a screen, not a diagnosis — when in doubt, seek review.
- ✓Sudden 'thunderclap' headaches are an emergency.
- ✓Any new neurological symptom alongside headache is urgent.
- ✓A new headache pattern after 50, or in pregnancy, deserves clinical assessment.
Frequently asked questions
Related guides
From general guide to your own pattern
This guide covers the general picture. The App records your specific pattern — timing, triggers, sleep, stress and medication use — and turns it into a summary report you can discuss with your primary healthcare provider.
Medical disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your GP or specialist for diagnosis and acute care.
On medication: HeadacheRecovery takes a non-pharmacological, tracking-based approach. Where research on medicines is mentioned it is background context only, not a recommendation. Any decision to start, stop or change a medicine belongs with your prescribing clinician.