Migraine Headaches - When To Call a Doctor

When To Call a Doctor

If you have a headache or have been diagnosed with migraine headaches, use the following information to help you decide when to call your doctor.

Call 911 or other emergency services if:

• You have a very sudden, severe, "thunderclap" headache that seems to come on instantly and is unlike any headache you have had before.
• You have symptoms of a stroke, which may include:
  • Sudden numbness, paralysis, or weakness in your face, arm, or leg, especially on only one side of your body.
  • Feeling dizzy or clumsy, or having trouble walking.
  • Sudden changes in vision.
  • New and sudden problems speaking or understanding simple statements.
  • Trouble walking or standing.

Call your doctor now or go to the emergency room if:

• You develop fever and a stiff neck.
• You have new nausea and vomiting, or you cannot keep food or liquids down.
• Your headache does not get better within 24 hours.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• Your headache has not gotten better within 1 to 2 days or wakes you up at night.
• Your headaches get worse or happen more often.
• You develop new symptoms.
• You have any problems with your medicine.
• You are older than 50 and have new or more frequent headaches.
• Your headaches occur after physical exercise, sexual activity, coughing, or sneezing.
• Your life is disrupted by your headaches (for example, you miss work or school regularly).

Watchful Waiting

Watchful waiting is a period of time during which you and your health professional observe your symptoms or condition without using medical treatment. Watchful waiting may be appropriate if you have recently been diagnosed with migraines and are taking medicine to reduce the pain or frequency of the migraines.

Who To See

Health professionals who may diagnose and treat your migraines include:

• Family medicine physician.
• Internist.
• General practitioner.
• Nurse practitioner.
• Physician assistant.
• Neurologist.

It may be helpful to see a doctor who has considerable experience treating migraines, especially if your migraines do not respond to drugs. If your child has migraines, it may be helpful for you to locate a doctor who has experience treating migraines in children. Research on the safety of migraine drugs for children is limited.

If you think your headaches might be linked to depression or anxiety, you may want to seek additional treatment from a psychiatrist, psychologist, or a licensed mental health counselor.

To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Making the Most of Your Appointment