Tests overview

The good news for headache sufferers is that once a correct headache diagnosis is made, an effective treatment plan can be started. The key is to establish which type or classification of headache you have.

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The first step is to go to your family physician. He or she will perform a complete physical examination and a headache evaluation. You will be asked to describe your headache history, symptoms, and characteristics as completely as possible.

After considering the results of the headache history and physical examination, as well as a neurological and psychological assessment, your doctor should be able to determine which type of headache you have, whether or not a serious problem is present, and whether additional tests are needed.

If your headache symptoms become worse or become more frequent despite treatment, ask your family physician for a referral to a specialist. If you need more information, contact one of the organizations in the resource list for a list of member physicians in your state.

This section contains more information on:

• headache history
• physical and neurological examinations
• other diagnostic tests