When to see a neurologist for headaches

Do I need to see a neurologist for my headache? This is a frequent question by many patients. Certainly, your family doctor is a right starting point for your headache trouble. However, for migraines, chronic headaches, and troubling symptoms, one may need to seek the help of a neurologist. An average headache does not require a visit to the doctor. Headaches are complicated, with several probable causes and treatments. In general, you need to enlist a neurologist if a headache disrupts your life. After visiting the family doctor, he might refer you to a neurologist for evaluating and treating your conditions. Remember, this does not mean that you have a major problem. Don’t get panic. Visiting a neurologist and getting your illness treated as early as possible is important. 

Headaches are associated with neck pain, sleep disorders, etc. Due to this complex association, primary doctors, in general, refer a patient to the specialists in the fields of musculoskeletal disorders, headache, and sleep. A neurologist is an expert in evaluating and treating such wide array of diseases.

A neurologist is an expert who can help differentiate a migraine from a tension-type headache. Remember, one-size-fits-all fashion does not work here in case of a headache. A headache neurologist can evaluate and recommend a comprehensive approach with medication and non-medication therapies to treat your conditions. 

Sinus headaches, migraine, rebound, tension-type headaches, cluster, autonomic cephalalgias, cervicogenic, need an expert neurologist. Sleep as well as the sleeping position is an important factor in stimulating headaches. It is better to look for a multidisciplinary headache center, with a qualified sleep disorders center, that will be capable of handling and treating complicated headache syndromes. You can find the best neurologist in Bangalore through internet easily.  

A neurologist will examine your condition in detail, and jot down your medical history. Through this examination, the expert will try to find out underlying medical issues that might be causing or complicating the problem and will suggest the treatment accordingly. 

In general, for non-severe headaches, you can see your family doctor, but if you notice some unusual symptoms or even when the recommended treatments are not working well, then it is time to visit a specialist in neurology who evaluates and treats disorders of the nervous system.

You need specialized medical attention for your headache if

• Your age is more than 50, and you have a new type of headache suddenly or chronic headaches.
• You have a headache along with vomiting, nausea, confusion, dizziness, blurry vision, loss of consciousness, or weakness.
• You notice a headache with loss of control of part of your body, vision or speech
• You suffer headaches more than two times a week.
• You find headaches are getting worse with time and no use of recommended treatment by family doctor/primary care doctor.
• You notice a severe and sudden headache as well as stiff neck and fever.
• You have a history of HIV/AIDS and find a new headache. 
• Your headache is making it difficult for you to perform your daily routine.

Seeking for correct aid at the right time is of prime importance. If you notice any of above-mentioned symptoms or any unusual symptoms, then do visit a neurologist without wasting time.