Headache? Here's What Specialty You Should Visit

If you're experiencing headaches, it's generally recommended to start with a visit to a neurology department. Neurologists are trained to assess and manage a wide range of headache disorders and can direct patients to the appropriate care pathway, including collaboration with other medical specialties when necessary.

Common Causes of Headaches

Headaches can stem from various conditions, many of which fall under the expertise of neurology. Common neurological causes include migraines, tension-type headaches, chronic daily headaches, and cluster headaches. These conditions are typically diagnosed and treated by neurologists using a combination of clinical evaluation and diagnostic tools.

When to See a Neurologist

In more complex cases, such as headaches caused by intracranial infections, brain tumors, space-occupying lesions, hydrocephalus, or carcinomatous meningitis, patients are often referred to a neurologist for further evaluation. Advanced imaging techniques like head CT scans, MRI scans, and lumbar punctures may be used to determine the underlying cause of the headache and guide the next steps in treatment.

When a Referral to Another Specialist is Needed

If the headache is suspected to be due to a large intracranial mass causing pressure and dizziness, a neurologist may refer the patient to a neurosurgeon for specialized care. Additionally, for cases of refractory pain such as greater occipital neuralgia, where standard treatments like anticonvulsants or pain relievers are ineffective, patients may be directed to a pain management specialist.

Specialized Pain Management for Headaches

In tertiary hospitals, dedicated pain clinics offer advanced treatment options like nerve blocks and other interventional therapies. These specialized interventions can significantly improve symptoms for patients suffering from persistent or severe headaches that don't respond to conventional treatment methods.