Should I see a specialist for my headaches?
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Dr. Michael Roizen answered:There are some topics in medical school that students (and subsequently when they become doctors) never revisit again once they learn about them. That's true for headaches: Once they learn the ins and outs and the basic treatment for headaches, those treatments are typically never discussed again. So what? Well, that points to the fact that many docs can get caught in a diagnostic rut when dealing with people whose heads hurt. If you're experiencing headache pain that changes your life, then you need to see a headache specialist - someone who has the most current treatments and insight available. Having fewer than five headaches a year is about average. If you're continually sidelined by life because of them, you really ought to have your head examined. If you have an excruciating headache - the worst of your life - you may need a CT scan to be sure your noggin is okay.
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There are some topics in medical school that students (and subsequently when they become doctors) never revisit again once they learn about them. That's true for headaches: Once they learn the ins and outs and the basic treatment for headaches,... More -
Dr. Irene Semenov of NorthShore University HealthSystem answered:Headaches may be benign in nature or may be due to some serious underlying conditions. Because there are so many causes of headaches it is important to avoid misdiagnosis. If the headaches are becoming more severe or more frequent it is time to see a headache specialist. Untreated headaches can lead to significantly increased morbidity and sick days. Also when the headaches have become chronic they may be more resistant to treatment.Headaches may be benign in nature or may be due to some serious underlying conditions. Because there are so many causes of headaches it is important to avoid misdiagnosis. If the headaches are becoming more severe or more frequent it is time... More
