Preparing For Your Visit: Headache
If you will be seeing a provider regarding headache/migraine, read below for questions to think about before your appointment. You can also print a copy of this list here and write in your answers for your appointment.
Write down your symptoms:
- When did the headaches begin?
- Where are your headaches located?
- How bad is your typical headache pain on the 0-10 pain scale with 10 being the worst pain?
- What does the pain feel like? Examples include throbbing, stabbing, and pressure.
- Are there any symptoms accompanying the headaches, such as aura (warning sign that a migraine is coming), light or noise sensitivity, dizziness, nausea and vomiting?
- How often do you have a headache?
- Keeping a headache diary is the best way to track the frequency and intensity of your headaches. It also helps to know whether your treatment plan is working to reduce your headaches. It is very important to bring your diary to every appointment. Click here to print a headache diary.
- What can trigger your headache or make the headache worse?
Bring headache related records to your appointment:
- Have you seen a medical provider for your headaches? If so, what testing and treatment have been provided?
- Bring a list of all current headache medications, as well as those medications you have already tried to improve your headaches. This would include abortive medications (those that help relieve your headache) and preventative medications (those that prevent your headaches from coming on). Also over-the-counter medications.
Learn more about headaches and how they are affecting you: