Headache: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Written by Achuta Uppu, MD. Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Headache?
A primary care doctor treats most headaches. If headaches are severe or hard to control, they may refer you to a neurologist, a specialist in the brain and nervous system. Some people with sinus-related headaches may see an ear, nose, and throat doctor instead.
What it is
A headache is pain or discomfort in your head or face. It happens when nerves, blood vessels, or muscles in and around the head send pain signals to your brain. Primary headaches, like tension headaches and migraines, are the problem themselves. Secondary headaches are caused by something else, such as an infection or injury.
Symptoms
The main symptom is head pain, but it can feel different depending on the type. A tension headache often feels like a dull, squeezing band around both sides of the head. A migraine is usually throbbing pain on one side, often with nausea or sensitivity to light and sound. A cluster headache brings sharp, burning pain around one eye in short attacks.
Causes and who gets it
Common triggers include stress, poor sleep, skipped meals, dehydration, and too much caffeine or caffeine withdrawal. Tight neck muscles, screen time, and certain smells or foods can also play a role. Tension headaches and migraines often start in the teen years or early adulthood, and migraines can run in families.
How doctors diagnose it
Doctors usually diagnose a headache by asking questions and doing a simple exam. They will ask where the pain is, how it feels, how long it lasts, and what sets it off. Keeping a headache diary can help. Most of the time no tests are needed, but a doctor may order an MRI or CT scan if they suspect something else is causing the pain.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the type of headache. Many tension headaches improve with rest, water, a cool cloth, or over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Doctors may prescribe other medicines for migraines or frequent headaches. Stress management, regular sleep, and steady meals also help many people.
When to see a doctor
Get emergency help if a headache comes on suddenly and is the worst you have ever had, or follows a head injury. Seek care if it comes with a stiff neck, fever, confusion, weakness, trouble speaking, or vision changes. Also see a doctor if headaches keep getting worse or do not improve with usual treatments.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance for visits, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside your insurance. Both can handle most headache care, often with longer appointments that make it easier to discuss triggers and treatment options. They can order imaging, prescribe medicines, and refer you to a neurologist if needed.
Common questions
Can headaches be a sign of something serious?
Usually they are not. Most headaches are tension headaches or migraines. A sudden, severe headache or one with fever, confusion, or weakness needs medical care right away.
How many headaches are too many?
If you get headaches more than a few times a month, it is worth talking to a doctor. Using pain relievers very often can itself cause rebound headaches.
Do I need a brain scan for my headaches?
Most people do not. Doctors usually order scans only when the headache pattern is unusual or when other warning signs are present.
Sources
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
