The Role of Neurologists in Treating Headaches and Migraines

1. The Role of Neurologists in Treating Headaches and Migraines Almost everyone experiences headaches once in a while — after a long day, a sleepless night, or too much screen time. But when headaches become frequent, intense, or disrupt your routine, it might be more than just stress or dehydration. Persistent headaches can sometimes indicate an underlying neurological condition, such as migraines or nerve-related pain. That’s where neurology plays an important role. Neurologists are specialists who diagnose and treat conditions related to the brain, nerves, and spinal cord, including recurring headaches and migraines. Let’s explore how neurologists help patients understand, manage, and recover from these conditions. 1. Understanding Headaches and Migraines Headaches are broadly divided into two types — primary and secondary. ● Primary headaches include tension headaches, cluster headaches, and migraines.

2. ● Secondary headaches occur due to another medical cause, such as sinus infections, high blood pressure, or head injuries. Migraines, in particular, are neurological disorders that go beyond a normal headache. They can cause throbbing pain, nausea, light sensitivity, blurred vision, and sometimes aura — a warning sign that a migraine is about to begin. A neurologist can help identify whether your headache is migraine-related or linked to another neurological issue. This early understanding prevents self-medication and ensures proper long-term treatment. 2. When to Consult a Neurologist for Headache or Migraine Many people ignore chronic headaches until they become unbearable. You should consult a neurologist if you experience: ● Severe or frequent headaches that last several days ● Headaches with nausea, dizziness, or vision problems ● Pain that disrupts your sleep or daily activities ● New or sudden headaches unlike anything you’ve had before A neurologist performs a detailed assessment — including physical exams, medical history, and sometimes MRI or CT scans — to find the real cause. 3. How Neurologists Diagnose Migraine and Other Headache Disorders Diagnosing migraines is not always straightforward because symptoms often overlap with other conditions. Neurologists use a systematic process: ● Reviewing symptoms and duration ● Identifying triggers such as stress, hormonal changes, or certain foods ● Checking family history, as migraines can run in families ● Using diagnostic tests to rule out structural or nerve-related causes This careful approach allows them to create a personalized treatment plan for each patient. 4. Treatment Options for Headaches and Migraines Neurology focuses on both preventive and corrective treatments. Depending on the severity, neurologists may recommend: ● Medication: Pain relievers, anti-migraine medicines, or preventive drugs ● Lifestyle management: Adjusting diet, sleep habits, and screen time

3. ● Therapy: Physiotherapy or relaxation techniques for tension headaches ● Botox therapy or nerve blocks: For chronic migraine cases ● Neuromodulation: A newer technique that targets nerve activity using mild electrical stimulation These treatments are designed not just to stop pain temporarily but to reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches over time. 5. When Surgical Help Is Needed In rare cases, headaches may stem from structural issues in the brain or nerves — such as tumors, aneurysms, or trauma. When this happens, neurologists often work closely with neurosurgeons. At Srimanta Sankardeva Hospital & Research Institute, patients have access to both advanced neurology services and the best neurosurgeon in Dibrugarh, ensuring complete diagnosis, medical management, and surgical support under one roof. This collaboration between neurologists and neurosurgeons ensures patients receive the safest and most effective treatment possible. 6. Prevention Tips from Neurology Experts Most neurologists emphasize prevention as much as treatment. You can minimize headaches and migraines by following a few simple habits: ● Get enough sleep and maintain a regular schedule ● Stay hydrated throughout the day ● Limit caffeine, alcohol, and processed foods ● Manage stress with yoga, meditation, or light exercise ● Keep a “headache diary” to identify triggers Even small lifestyle changes, guided by a neurologist, can greatly improve your quality of life. Conclusion Headaches and migraines are among the most common neurological problems, but with the right medical help, they can be effectively managed. Consulting a qualified neurologist helps uncover the root cause and provides personalized treatment to control pain and prevent future attacks. For people in Upper Assam seeking expert neurological care, Srimanta Sankardeva Hospital & Research Institute offers specialized consultation, advanced diagnostic facilities, and comprehensive treatment under the guidance of an experienced neurologist in Dibrugarh. In

4. complex cases, the hospital’s team also includes the best neurosurgeon in Dibrugarh, ensuring patients receive seamless care — from diagnosis to recovery. Your headaches don’t have to control your life. With the right neurological care, relief and long-term health are within reach.