Pain in the head caused by common primary headaches or an underlying medical or neurological disorder.
Headache is a symptom rather than a diagnosis. Pain in the head caused by common primary headaches or an underlying medical or neurological disorder. The pattern, duration, associated symptoms and medical history help a clinician identify the cause.
Possible causes include Migraine, Tension headache, Sinus or viral illness, Hypertensive emergency or brain disorder. The same symptom can arise from several organ systems, so self-diagnosis can be misleading.
It may be temporary, recurrent or persistent depending on the underlying cause.
It may be dangerous when sudden, severe, progressive or associated with emergency warning signs.
Your doctor will first understand your symptoms and examine you. Investigations are advised only when clinically indicated.
Focused clinical examination and vital signs
Blood or urine tests when clinically indicated
ECG, X-ray or ultrasound based on the suspected organ system
CT, MRI, Echo, Holter, EEG, EMG/NCS, PFT or endoscopy only when the clinical assessment supports it
Treatment depends on the diagnosis, severity, age, other health conditions and response to care.
Treat the confirmed underlying cause rather than the symptom alone
Hydration, rest, diet or activity changes when appropriate
Medicines only after reviewing allergies, pregnancy, kidney/liver function and interactions
Hospital admission, monitoring, ICU care or specialist referral for severe symptoms
Manage known chronic diseases
Healthy diet, activity, sleep and hydration
Avoid tobacco, excess alcohol and unprescribed medicines
Seek early assessment for recurrent or progressive symptoms
Recovery depends entirely on the underlying cause
Keep a record of timing, triggers and associated symptoms
Follow prescribed treatment and review instructions
Return immediately if warning signs develop
Common possibilities include Migraine, Tension headache, Sinus or viral illness, Hypertensive emergency or brain disorder. A clinician narrows the cause from the complete history and examination.
Do not select tests without assessment. The first test depends on age, associated symptoms, examination and urgency.
Mild short-lived symptoms may settle, but sudden, severe, recurrent or progressive symptoms should be evaluated.
Symptom medicines can mask serious illness or interact with existing treatment. Ask a clinician or pharmacist who knows your health history.
Sudden worst-ever headache; Weakness, speech or vision change; Fever with neck stiffness; Head injury with vomiting or drowsiness.
General Medicine can perform the first assessment and coordinate the appropriate specialist based on findings.
Arrange a consultation when symptoms persist, recur or affect daily life. Seek immediate care for any of the warning signs below.
Speak with our medical team for a careful clinical assessment and a treatment plan suited to your needs.
