Headache

About Headache

A headache refers to pain in the head or upper neck. It ranks among the most common local pain complaints and may be frequent for many people. Headaches can be caused by many things including tension, trauma, life threatening bleeding, or migraines.

Symptoms

Head pain, neck pain, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, neurologic abnormalities, visual changes.

Tests & Diagnostics

A history and physical exam will be performed with particular attention to the neurologic examination. In some cases, a head CT or brain MRI may be recommended but these are not usually necessary.

Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, MRI, Urinalysis (UA).

Path 2 — Over-the-Counter Options

OTC sleep aids and supportive treatments

Path 3 — Prescription Options

Prescription medications

Conventional treatment summary

Identifying the type and cause of the headache determines the treatment. Generally treating the symptoms with medications helps in the acute phase. Medications used include: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn), pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), migraine medications, and/or anti-nausea medications.

Medical specialties

Internal Medicine · Neurology · Pediatrics · Family Practice · Pediatric Neurology

This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Headache.