Recurring headaches

Overview

Headaches have many possible causes. A conversation about a recurring, non-urgent pattern is different from assessing a sudden or unusual headache. Do not decide that a new severe headache is simply the same as one you have had before.

If the symptoms are stable enough for a planned appointment, a short diary can make the history easier to explain. Write down what actually happened rather than trying to fit it into a diagnosis. The aim is to describe the pattern, its impact and any change that concerns you.

By video

A remote consultation may help explore the history of recurring headaches and review the information already available. You can discuss timing, accompanying symptoms, medication use and previous assessments. The doctor can consider whether more information or an examination is necessary.

Be clear about your baseline and the current difference: more frequent episodes, a different location, an effect on work, or a symptom that was not there before. If you have a previous diagnosis, tell the doctor who made it and what advice you were given. A familiar diagnosis does not remove the need to assess a change.

By telephone

A telephone history can explore a familiar headache pattern, changes in symptoms and previous assessment. New, severe or changing headaches may need urgent examination instead. The absence of a visual or neurological examination limits what can be concluded from the call.

What cannot be done remotely

Video cannot provide a complete neurological or eye examination. An apparently normal conversation on screen cannot rule out every serious cause of headache. A doctor may need to direct you to an in-person service, sometimes urgently, rather than complete an assessment remotely.

This topic is proposed information for a planned adult consultation, not a triage tool or a specialist headache service. Read the warning signs before considering an appointment. If the pattern changes while you are waiting, choose the appropriate urgent service instead of keeping to the original booking.

What to prepare

• Note the dates, duration and frequency of episodes, and how they affect normal activity.
• Describe any nausea, visual changes or other symptoms, and whether these are new.
• List all medicines used for headaches and how often you take them, including non-prescription products.
• Have details of earlier assessments and investigations, if any, and explain your main concern.

Sources

• NHS: headaches
• GMC: remote consultations

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