Headaches Diagnosed and Treated by Neurologists in Baltimore

Headaches may be caused by conditions of the brain, eyes, jaw, neck and teeth. They are categorized as primary or secondary. 

Primary Headaches

A primary headache occurs when the headache itself is the main medical problem. It is sometimes associated with non-medical causes like medications, dehydration or changing hormones. 

Types of primary headaches include:

• Cluster
• Migraines
• Tension Headaches

Secondary Headaches

A secondary headache occurs as a symptom of an underlying disease or condition. Secondary headaches vary greatly in severity and can be caused by a wide variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

• Sinus infection
• Hangover
• Influenza (flu)
• Concussion
• Aneurysm
• Blood clot

Headache symptoms are different for each individual. If you have concerns about your headaches you should monitor how often the headache occurs and the intensity of the headache.

If severe symptoms occur, it is recommended that a physician be consulted. Serious symptoms may include:

• Nausea, vomiting, dizziness, confusion, loss of consciousness or blurry vision
• Age 50 or older with chronic headaches or new type of headache
• Two or more headaches in  a week
• Weakness in arms or legs
• Seizures or epilepsy

A comprehensive exam including your medical history, family history and physical exam will be used to evaluate your condition. Several diagnostic tests to help determine the type of headache may also be ordered:

• Blood tests
• CT scan
• EEG
• Sinus tests
• MRI
• Urinalysis

Treatment for Headaches

Specific treatments for headaches are considered based on the findings from the diagnostic tests. Other factors to help determine treatment may include:

• Diet
• Exercise
• Overall health of patient
• Medication
• Severity and how frequent headache occurs
• Stress management
• Type of headaches

Most headaches are treated with prescription or over-the-counter medicines. Patients have also experienced relief using stress management techniques, massage therapy and alternative medicine.

Botox Injection Treatment for Chronic Migraines

For patients suffering from chronic migraines, The Neurology Center at Mercy offers FDA-approved Botox injections for the prevention of migraines. Botox is a prescription medicine that is injected to prevent headache flares in adults with chronic migraines who have 15 or more headache days a month. Botox injections also may help reduce headache frequency.

During the procedure, your doctor uses a thin needle to inject tiny amounts of botulinum toxin (Botox) into key areas of the head, neck and shoulder. The treatment is performed once every 12 weeks to prevent headache days. Based on your progress, you and your doctor will discuss re-treatment every 12 weeks.

Patients are encouraged to speak to their neurologist to determine if Botox injections are a preferred treatment option for their symptoms.