Headaches and Migraines

Headaches are common and may occur occasionally or become frequent enough to interfere with work, sleep, or routine activities. They are also among the most common neurological disorders. Most headaches aren’t dangerous, but some may be a sign of a more serious underlying medical condition.  

If headaches or migraines affect your daily life, the WMCHealth Headache Specialists Center can provide you with comprehensive, evidence-based care. Our multidisciplinary team includes specialists in neurology, pain management, neuroradiology, physical medicine and rehabilitation, and internal medicine. Together, we work to identify possible causes, reduce symptoms, and help improve your quality of life.  

When Is a Headache Serious? 

A headache is pain you experience in any area of your head or face. It may feel like pressure, throbbing, sharp, or dull pain. Headaches can last from minutes to several days.

A migraine is a neurological condition that causes recurring headache attacks. Migraine symptoms may include moderate to severe pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light or sound. Migraine attacks often last between four and 72 hours without treatment.   

When to Seek Medical Attention 

Some headaches may require medical attention. Talk with your doctor if you experience: 

• A sudden, severe (“worst-ever”) headache 
• A headache with fever, stiff neck, or confusion 
• New headaches after age 50 
• Headache with weakness, vision changes, or speech difficulty 
• Headaches that feel different from usual or worsen over time 

Types of Headaches 

There are more than 100 types of headaches. Most fall into two categories: primary headaches and secondary headaches.   

Primary Headaches 

Primary headaches are not caused by another medical condition. Common types include: 

• Migraine (often one-sided, throbbing, with nausea or light sensitivity) 
• Tension-type headache (pressure or tightness around the head) 
• Cluster headache (severe pain around one eye with tearing or nasal congestion) 
• Medication-overuse headache (headaches that occur from frequent use of pain-relief medications) 

Secondary Headaches 

Secondary headaches develop because of another underlying condition. Causes may include: 

• Infections, such as meningitis 
• Bleeding in the brain 
• Head injuries 
• Medication overuse 
• Sinus conditions or cervical spine disorders

Symptoms of Headaches and Migraines

Headache and migraine symptoms can vary from person to person. Common symptoms may include: 

• Head or facial pain 
• Nausea or vomiting 
• Sensitivity to light, sound, or smells 
• Visual disturbances, including flashing lights or blind spots 
• Dizziness 
• Fatigue 
• Trouble concentrating 

Causes of Headaches and Migraines 

Headaches and migraines can develop for many different reasons. Pain may result from interactions between the brain, nerves, blood vessels, and surrounding muscles. 

Migraines are linked to changes in nerve signaling and inflammation pathways in the brain. Genetics and individual sensitivity may also play a role. 

Common headache and migraine triggers may include: 

• Stress 
• Changes in sleep patterns 
• Skipped meals 
• Hormonal changes 
• Certain foods, alcohol, or caffeine 
• Environmental changes, including light, weather, or noise

Treatment for Headaches and Migraines 

Treatment for headaches and migraines depends on the type, frequency, and severity of your symptoms. Your care team will create a personalized treatment plan based on your needs and response to therapy. 

Medications for Symptom Relief 

Some medications are used at the start of a headache to help relieve symptoms. These may include: 

• Over-the-counter pain relievers 
• Triptans 
• CGRP-targeting medications, including gepants 
• Other prescription migraine medications 

Preventive Treatments 

Preventive treatments may help reduce how often headaches and migraines occur. Options may include: 

• Blood pressure medications 
• Antiseizure medications 
• Antidepressants 
• CGRP-targeting therapies 
• CGRP-targeting therapies, including gepants and monoclonal antibodies 

Lifestyle and Supportive Therapies 

Your treatment plan may also include therapies that help identify triggers and manage symptoms, including: 

• Stress management and relaxation techniques 
• Cognitive behavioral therapy 
• Sleep improvement strategies 
• Dietary and trigger management 
• Physical therapy 

Procedures and Advanced Therapies 

Some patients may benefit from additional treatment options, including: 

• Botox injections for chronic migraine 
• Peripheral nerve blocks 
• Noninvasive neuromodulation devices  

When Migraine Surgery May Be Considered 

Migraine surgery is considered only for carefully selected patients after comprehensive evaluation and failure of standard medical therapies. Most patients achieve good symptom control without surgery. These procedures are highly specialized and performed only after thorough evaluation by experienced headache specialists. 

These procedures are highly specialized and performed only after thorough evaluation by experienced headache specialists.