Headache

Most long-standing headaches are migraine or tension-type headache. Overusing painkillers can itself keep headaches going.

Common symptoms

Throbbing one-sided pain with sickness or light sensitivity (migraine)
Band-like pressure around the head
Headache on most days of the month
Headache starting from the neck

How it is assessed

A detailed headache history is the most important test. A headache diary helps. Scans are needed only when the history or examination suggests another cause.

Possible options

Identifying triggers and reviewing painkiller use
Medicines to treat attacks and, if frequent, to prevent them
Sleep, exercise and stress management
For selected patients: nerve blocks (a local anaesthetic injection near a nerve of the scalp) or other specialist treatments

What to keep in mind

Headache treatments usually reduce how often or how strongly headaches occur rather than stopping them completely. Finding the right medicine can take several weeks.

Seek urgent help if

Sudden, severe 'worst ever' headache
Headache with fever, stiff neck or rash
Headache with weakness, confusion, loss of vision or difficulty speaking
New headache after a head injury, or a new headache pattern after age 50

Next step

Keep a headache diary for two to four weeks, including painkiller use, and bring it to your consultation.

Request an assessment

General information only. Your doctor will advise what suits you.