How are headaches evaluated and diagnosed?
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.