Headaches are a common part of life for many people, often dismissed as temporary annoyances that can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. However, when headaches become a regular, intense or debilitating feature of your life, they move beyond the realm of normal discomfort. A persistent headache can impact your daily activities, work and overall quality of life, meaning that it might be time to seek specialist medical attention.
Understanding persistent headache
What defines a persistent headache? It’s typically a headache that occurs frequently, often daily or almost daily, for three months or more. Unlike a fleeting tension headache or a headache triggered by dehydration, a persistent headache can be constant or recur with such regularity that it becomes an almost permanent feature of your health. These headaches can vary widely in their characteristics – they might be dull and aching, sharp and throbbing, or feel like a constant pressure. The challenge lies in identifying the underlying cause, which can range from various disorders to more complex neurological conditions. When standard treatments offer little relief, it’s a clear indication that you should consider a specialist.
Warning signs that warrant a specialist consultation
While many headaches are benign, certain symptoms suggest that your persistent headache could be indicative of a more serious underlying issue. Paviour emphasises the importance of not ignoring these signs and seeking timely professional advice.
You should consider seeing a neurologist if your persistent headache is accompanied by:
- Sudden, severe onset
- Changes in headache pattern
- Neurological symptoms: Weakness, numbness, vision changes, difficulty speaking, balance problems or confusion.
- Headache following a head injury
- Fever, stiff neck, or rash
- Headache that worsens with coughing, sneezing, or straining.
- New headache onset after the age of 50.
- Headaches that disrupt sleep or wake you from sleep.
These symptoms do not necessarily mean a serious condition is present, but they warrant an evaluation by a neurological expert.
How a neurologist diagnoses and manages persistent headache
When you consult a neurologist like Dr Paviour for a persistent headache, the process involves a detailed and comprehensive evaluation. This goes beyond just pain management as it aims to diagnose the specific type of headache or identify any underlying neurological conditions.
Dr Paviour’s approach includes:
- Thorough Medical History: A detailed discussion about your headache characteristics, frequency, triggers, and any associated symptoms, as well as your health and medical history.
- Examination: A physical examination to assess your nervous system function, including reflexes, coordination, vision and sensation.
- Diagnostic Imaging and Tests: Depending on the clinical picture, Dr Paviour may recommend further investigations such as an MRI or CT scan of the brain to rule out structural issues.
- Your treatment plan: Based on the diagnosis, Dr Paviour will develop a management strategy. This could involve specific medications, discussing lifestyle changes, exploring non-pharmacological therapies, or coordinating with other specialists if required.
The goal is not only to minimise your current pain but also to establish a long-term strategy for managing your condition and improving your quality of life.
Appointments for Persistent Headache Pain
If you are experiencing a headache that impacts your life and hasn’t responded to conventional treatments, it’s time to seek specialist neurological advice. Dr Paviour offers expert consultations for a wide range of neurological conditions. Get in touch today to discuss your symptoms and get the treatment you need.
Photo by Jan Krivec on Unsplash
