The correct headache diagnosis is needed to begin an
effective treatment plan. The most important aspect of the headache evaluation
is the headache history, which is obtained from the patient. It is important for
you to describe your headache symptoms and characteristics to your doctor as
completely as possible so the headache can be properly diagnosed and
successfully treated. Your headache can be more accurately diagnosed by knowing:
- When the headache started
- How long you have had the headache
- Whether there is a single type of headache or multiple types of
headaches
- How often the headache occurs
- What causes the headache, if known (for example, do certain situations,
foods, or medications usually trigger the headache?)
- If physical activity aggravates the headache pain
- What events are associated with the headache
- Who else in your family has headaches
- What symptoms, if any, occur between headaches
Your doctor will also ask additional questions about
performance at work, family background, and if there is any history of drug
abuse.
Clinical description of headaches
Describe how you feel when you have the headache and
what happens when you get the headache, such as:
- Where the pain is located
- What it feels like
- How severe the headache pain is, using a scale from one (mild) to 10 (severe)
- If the headache appears suddenly without warning or with accompanying symptoms
- What time of day the headache usually occurs
- If there is an aura (changes in vision, blind spots, or bright lights) before the headache
- What other symptoms or warning signs occur with the headache (weakness,
nausea, sensitivity to light or noise, decreased appetite, changes in attitude or behavior)
- How long the headache lasts
History of headache treatments
You should provide your physician with a history of
prior headache treatments. Tell your doctor what medications you have taken in
the past and what medications are you currently taking. Don't hesitate to list
them, bring in the medication bottles, or ask your pharmacist for a printout.
If any studies or tests were previously performed,
bring them with you. This may save time and repetition of tests.
Physical and neurological examinations
After completing the medical history part of the
evaluation, your physician will perform physical and neurological examinations.
The physician will look for signs and symptoms of an illness that may be causing
the headache. These signs and symptoms can include: fever, infection, high blood
pressure, muscle weakness, balance problems, or vision problems.