A neurologist warned about a specific headache that could kill you in hours. He said people should not ignore this headache because it could be caused by a serious infection.

Headaches are common and can be caused by many things. They can be caused by colds, flu, dehydration, stress, or eyesight problems.

But sometimes headaches can be a sign of something serious. A neurologist warned that a headache caused by meningitis is an emergency.

The neurologist said this headache can kill you in hours. He also said there are warning signs that you should not ignore.

Most headaches are not emergencies, but meningitis is different. Meningitis is an infection of the brain and spinal cord's protective layers.

Meningitis can be very serious and life-threatening if not treated quickly. It can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or fungi.

The bacterial form of meningitis is the most scary because it can become life-threatening quickly. Vaccines have saved many lives by preventing some forms of bacterial meningitis.

If you have a headache with other meningitis symptoms, seek medical help immediately. The classic symptoms of meningitis include a severe headache, high fever, stiff neck, and sensitivity to light.

Some people with meningitis become confused, sleepy, or develop a purple rash. The NHS website describes a meningitis headache as a severe headache that gets worse.

In the early stages, meningitis might not seem serious. It can look like a common viral illness.

People sometimes wait too long to seek medical care because meningitis can look like a common illness. If someone has these symptoms, especially if they're not vaccinated, go to the emergency department immediately.

The NHS describes a meningitis headache as a severe headache that gets worse.

Meningitis can be caused by many types of viruses or bacteria spread through close contact with an infected person.

The infection is usually spread by people who carry these viruses or bacteria but are not ill themselves.

Anyone can get meningitis, but it's more common in some groups.

It's possible to get meningitis more than once.

Meningitis can also cause a stiff neck.

If an adult or child has severe symptoms, call 999 or go to A&E.

If a baby or child under five has severe symptoms, call 999.

For more information, visit the NHS website.