What is referred to as the "worst headache of life" in the context of CVA?

The term "worst headache of life" typically refers to a sudden onset headache, which is often associated with a subarachnoid hemorrhage—a type of cerebrovascular accident (CVA). This phrase indicates that the headache is not only a surprising change in the patient’s experience of headaches but also significant in its intensity, often described as the most severe headache a person has ever encountered.

In clinical practice, sudden onset headaches can be alarming and demand immediate medical attention because they may signal serious underlying conditions such as intracranial hemorrhage or other forms of CVA. Unlike sinus headaches, chronic migraines, or tension-type headaches, which may develop gradually over time, a sudden onset headache occurs abruptly and can indicate a critical vascular event in the brain. This stark difference in onset is crucial for clinicians when assessing a patient’s condition and determining the appropriate course of action.