Everyone can get a headache at some point in their lives. While some headaches disappear after taking painkillers, others might persist even with such interventions. Despite being common, if your headache is persistent and severe it would be best to see a specialist for headaches in Dundalk, Rosedale, Gaithersburg, Lanham, or Baltimore. If you happen to narrow your search for a specialist at CHOICE Pain & Rehabilitation Center, here are some things you may want to know before you book your appointment.
How to Describe Your Headache to a Doctor
Sometimes, your headache can be pain in your forehead, the sides, or at the back of your head. The pain may travel to the neck area. It can be caused by severe dehydration, a head injury, tension in the muscles, or a symptom of another disease. When seeing a specialist for headaches, say exactly where you feel pain the most. You can also mention how long it lasts and how often it comes. Your doctor may perform exams and tests to determine what is causing your headaches.
How to Know Your Headache Is Serious
Differentiating between normal headaches from one that is fatal can be daunting, particularly if you have already started self-medicating. Watch out for these signs:
- Your headache feels like an eruption happening inside your head. It suddenly appears that you cannot keep up with it.
- You have been diagnosed with immunity-related diseases such as HIV, diabetes, or undergoing severe treatments such as chemotherapy.
- A stiff neck or high fever accompanies your headache. If you have the flu, experiencing fever and headaches might also occur. If it lasts more than seven days, it would be best if you see a doctor immediately.
- You cannot perform your daily functions due to a headache. A headache that makes you want to lie in bed the whole day and prevents you from engaging in your regular activities is severe. It could be a sign of an injury or an underlying condition. See a doctor immediately to restore your quality of life.
- You develop a headache after engaging in strenuous activities like lifting weights, running, or working out.
- You have trouble sleeping at night due to a dreadful headache. It even wakes you from your sleep.
- You have a family history of migraines and other conditions related to chronic headaches. If it changes in pattern or intensity, see a doctor immediately.
- You experience headaches more often, but your doctor has not discovered the real cause behind it.
- Your headache worsens in the morning. As soon as you wake up, the first thing that greets you is a pounding headache.
When you have a headache, it becomes difficult to focus on other things worth your attention. It could be a sign of something serious. Taking over-the-counter pain relievers might take away the pain, but they will not solve the underlying cause. The next time you experience one or more of these signs, see your specialist immediately. To find out if you are a candidate for headache assessment, call your doctor today.
