Headache Journal

Navigating Work Up

Overview

Depending on a patient’s headache history, providers might need to determine if the headache is primary or secondary and decide if further testing is necessary. Our experts put together resources to help you identify red flags in headache medicine, concerning changes in headache history and more.

Podcasts

Red Flags in Headache -- What if it isn't Migraine?

About 80-90% of the headaches are primary headaches, but the other 10-20% are secondary—caused by something else, usually an underlying condition or side effect of medication. This episode, Dr. Rebecca Michael dives into the “red flags” to look out for when making a diagnosis.

Asking the Right Questions to Diagnose Migraine

Dr. Brian Plato explains how providers can diagnose migraine through a systematic set of questions to feel confident in their diagnosis.  

Videos

Migraine Basics
Changes in Headache History: When to be Concerned

Headache disorders can be a difficult health issue to address. They can be further complicated, however, by changes in headache or symptoms. Brian Plato, DO, FAHS, explains which changes in headache history are cause for concern and how providers can help.

Migraine Basics
Primary vs. Secondary Headache

When diagnosing patients with migraine, healthcare providers must determine whether a headache is primary or secondary. Learn more about telling the difference.

Recent News & Research

Updated Guidelines for Neuroimaging in Migraine

Researchers update evidence-based recommendations about when to obtain neuroimaging in patients with migraine. 

Read More

Red Flags in Headache History

Brian Plato, DO, FAHS, is the medical director of headache medicine at Norton Neuroscience Institute in Louisville, Kentucky. He recently discussed red flags in headache history...

Read More

Additional Resources

When does a Patient with Headache Need a Workup

Flowchart: Diagnosing and Treating Migraine

Red Flags and When to Image

Neuroimaging for Migraine: The American Headache Society Systematic Review and Evidence‐Based Guideline

Weekly Headache Diary Template

Monthly Headache Diary Template

Migraine and Cardiovascular Disease

Sleep Disorders and Headache

Ten Things That You and Your Patients with Migraine Should Know

Patient Resources

Changes in Headache Symptoms: When to be Concerned

Changes in your headache symptoms may possibly indicate complications. Find out what symptoms to watch for and when to see a doctor.

MRI for Kids: When is Brain Imaging Necessary?

When is an MRI necessary for kids with headaches? Dr. Meghan S. Candee offers insights on how to discuss imaging for children to parents.

What to Expect From a First-Time Visit to a Headache Specialist

If you've never been to a headache specialist before, read our checklist to prepare for your visit and get the right treatment.

What Causes Migraine

While lifestyle and medical factors that affect migraine differ for everyone, addressing them can impact how you feel. These tools can help you manage them.

Why Do I Have Migraine?

Dr. Andrew Hershey outlines migraine’s contributing factors and what you can do to prevent a migraine attack.

How to Establish a Good Relationship with Your Healthcare Professional

Dawn Buse, PhD, FAHS, discusses how patients can establish a strong doctor-patient relationship with their health care provider.

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