So you’ve finally scheduled a doctor’s appointment to discuss your headaches. Now what?
Headaches come in all shapes and sizes. That’s why it’s important to arm yourself with knowledge about the different types, and the best ways to treat them. If you suffer from aching, throbbing or pulsating pain, it’s important to get a definitive headache diagnosis. A doctor can also help determine if your pain is caused by migraines and suggest migraine treatments.
Be Prepared
To get the most out of your visit, consider keeping track of your headaches in the weeks leading up to the appointment. “The most important thing is to pay attention to your symptoms and record them in a diary, so you can describe them accurately,” says Elizabeth Seng, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist and headache researcher in New York City. Also, write down a few questions you want to ask. Some good ones include:
- What do you think is causing my headaches
- What tests might I need to diagnose my headaches?
- Could any medications I’m taking be making my headaches worse?
- How often can I expect to experience my headaches?
- What are my treatment options?
- Is over-the-counter medication sufficient?
- If I need a prescription, why do I need that medication?
- What side effects might I experience from my medication?
- Should I treat my headaches only when they occur, or should I take medication every day?
- How can I tell if a headache’s severity is dangerous?
- How can I identify my headache triggers?
