Migraine and Headache: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Migraine and Headache?
A neurologist treats problems of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves, and often treats severe or frequent migraines. Many people start with a primary care doctor, who may refer them to a neurologist if headaches are hard to control. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
A headache is pain you feel in your head or face. A migraine is a type of headache that often causes strong, throbbing pain on one side of the head. Migraines can also bring nausea and a strong dislike of light and sound. Most headaches are not dangerous, but they can make daily life hard.
Symptoms
Common tension headaches usually cause steady pressure on both sides of the head. Migraines often pound or throb and can get worse when you move around.
Some people get warning signs before a migraine, such as flashing lights or blurry spots, called an aura. During a migraine, people may vomit, feel dizzy, or need to lie down in a dark, quiet room.
Causes and who gets it
Doctors think migraine involves changes in brain activity, blood flow, and brain chemicals. Migraines tend to run in families. Triggers include stress, poor sleep, skipped meals, certain foods, weather changes, and hormone shifts.
Women get migraines more often than men. The problem often starts in the teen years or early adulthood.
How doctors diagnose it
There is no single test for migraine. A doctor will ask about your symptoms, how often the headaches happen, and your family history. Keeping a headache diary can help.
Sometimes doctors order an MRI or CT scan. These tests are usually done to rule out other causes, not to confirm migraine.
Treatment
For mild headaches, over-the-counter pain relievers often help. For migraines, doctors may prescribe special medicines that stop an attack once it starts.
People who get migraines often may take daily medicines to prevent them. Doctors may also suggest better sleep habits, regular meals, and stress management. Finding the right plan can take time.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if headaches happen often, get worse, or do not improve with usual treatments. Get medical help right away if a headache comes on suddenly and feels like the worst headache of your life. Other warning signs include fever with a stiff neck, weakness on one side of the body, trouble speaking, confusion, or a headache after a head injury.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance. A concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. These doctors often have longer visits, which helps when talking through headache patterns and triggers. They can start treatments, order scans, and refer you to a neurologist if needed.
Common questions
Can migraines be cured?
There is no cure for migraine. Many people still see real improvement with the right mix of medicine and lifestyle changes.
Are migraines just bad headaches?
No. Migraine is a brain condition with many symptoms beyond pain, such as nausea, dizziness, and sensitivity to light. That is why doctors treat migraine differently from ordinary headaches.
How long does a migraine last?
A migraine attack can last from a few hours up to three days if untreated. Medicine taken early often shortens the attack.
Sources
- MedlinePlus - Migraine
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke - Migraine
- MedlinePlus - Headache
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.
