How to find the right headache diagnosis?
Making an accurate headache diagnosis is a complex process that requires collaboration between patient and healthcare professional.
There’s no single “right answer”, but following these steps can increase the chances of finding the right diagnosis:

For patients:
1
Collect details:
Describe your headache carefully (onset, type, location, intensity, frequency, triggers etc.) and make a note of any other symptoms, illnesses, medications you take, lifestyle factors, and keep a headache diary.
2
Choose qualified healthcare professionals:
Seek out qualified healthcare professionals who have experience and expertise in headaches.
3
Be honest and open:
Provide your doctor or qualified healthcare professional with all relevant information to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
4
Need for further investigation?
If you are unsure of the diagnosis, consider whether an MRI, CT scan or referral to a specialist may be appropriate.
For healthcare professionals:
1
Listen carefully to the patient’s description:
Pay attention to details and nuances in the patient’s story. Dig about all the possible causes and the development of the headache over time.
2
Ask detailed questions:
Ask about symptoms, intensity, frequency, duration of seizures, associated signs and symptoms, medications, lifestyle and other relevant factors. Link the questions to the ICHD-3 criteria to help determine the correct diagnosis.
3
Perform a thorough examination:
This includes a neurological examination, blood pressure measurement and examination of the face, eyes, shoulders, neck, back and jaw.
4
Consider the patient’s headache diary:
This can provide valuable information about the frequency, intensity and patterns of headache attacks.
5
Use ICHD-3 to classify the headache:
The International Classification of Headache Disorders is a tool for categorizing headaches based on symptoms and signs.
6
Assess the need for further investigation:
An MRI or CT scan is rarely necessary, but may be required to rule out structural causes of the headache. Read here about red flags. Involve your GP for blood tests and other relevant investigations. Refer to a neurologist if diagnosis or treatment options are uncertain.
7
Inform the patient about the diagnosis:
Explain the diagnosis in a clear and understandable way. De-dramatize and build up confidence that headaches can be controlled with the right measures.
8
Discuss treatment options and prognosis:
Collaborate with the patient to find the best treatment for their individual needs. Remember to follow up the patient to ensure a safe and effective course of treatment. Collaborate interdisciplinary when needed.
Remember:
- Correct diagnosis is essential for effective treatment.

For more information:
For further treatment after diagnosis is made:
- Headaches can have many different causes, both physical and psychological.
- It is important to consider the patient’s individual needs and preferences when choosing a treatment.
- Treating headaches can be complex and require a multidisciplinary approach.
- Treatment and prevention go hand in hand. Proper treatment helps to prevent headache attacks.