Headache & Migraine: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Advanced Treatment
Headache is one of the most common neurological complaints, affecting people of all age groups. While occasional headaches are usually harmless, frequent or severe headaches—especially migraines—can significantly disrupt daily life, work productivity, sleep, and mental well-being. Migraine, in particular, is not just a headache, but a chronic neurological disorder that requires accurate diagnosis and long-term management by a specialist. Early consultation with a neurologist can help control symptoms, reduce frequency, and improve quality of life. Dr. (Prof.) Kunal Bahrani, a leading Headache and Migraine Doctor in Faridabad, offers advanced, evidence-based care focused on identifying the root cause and providing long-term relief rather than temporary solutions.
Understanding Headache and Migraine
A headache refers to pain or discomfort in the head, scalp, or neck region. Headaches can be primary (not caused by another disease) or secondary (resulting from an underlying condition).
Migraine is a primary headache disorder characterised by recurrent attacks of moderate to severe headache, often accompanied by other neurological symptoms.
Types of Headaches
- Tension-Type Headache
The most common form of headache, often caused by:
- Stress
- Poor posture
- Muscle tension
- Fatigue
Symptoms include a dull, tight, band-like pain around the head.
- Migraine Headache
Migraine is a complex neurological condition involving abnormal brain activity and nerve signalling.
Migraine attacks may last from a few hours to several days and can be severely disabling.
- Cluster Headache
A rare but extremely painful headache that occurs in clusters over weeks or months, often affecting one side of the head around the eye.
- Cervicogenic Headache
Headache originating from cervical spine (neck) problems, commonly associated with cervical spondylosis.
- Secondary Headaches
Caused by underlying conditions such as:
- Sinus infections
- High blood pressure
- Head injury
- Brain infections or tumors
These require prompt medical evaluation.
What Is Migraine?
Migraine is a chronic neurological disorder marked by repeated headache attacks along with sensitivity to light, sound, and sometimes smell. It often runs in families and is influenced by genetic and environmental factors.
Migraine is more common in women and can worsen with hormonal changes, stress, or lifestyle triggers.
Symptoms of Migraine
Common migraine symptoms include:
- Throbbing or pulsating headache (usually one-sided)
- Sensitivity to light and sound
- Nausea or vomiting
- Visual disturbances (aura)
- Fatigue or irritability
- Worsening pain with physical activity
Some people experience migraine aura, which may include flashing lights, blind spots, or tingling sensations before the headache begins.
Common Migraine Triggers
Triggers vary from person to person and may include:
- Stress and anxiety
- Lack of sleep or irregular sleep patterns
- Skipping meals
- Dehydration
- Bright lights or loud noise
- Weather changes
- Certain foods or beverages
Identifying and managing triggers is a key part of migraine control.
When Headache or Migraine Becomes a Concern
Seek immediate medical attention if headache is associated with:
- Sudden severe pain (“worst headache of life”)
- Fever and neck stiffness
- Weakness or numbness
- Vision or speech problems
- Seizures
- Head injury
These may indicate serious neurological conditions.
Diagnosis of Headache & Migraine
Clinical Evaluation
A neurologist performs a detailed assessment including:
- Headache pattern and frequency
- Duration and severity
- Associated symptoms
- Family history
- Lifestyle factors
Diagnostic Tests (If Required)
- MRI brain
- CT scan
- Blood tests
These are recommended when red-flag symptoms are present or when secondary causes are suspected.
Treatment Options for Headache & Migraine
- Acute Treatment
Used during headache attacks to relieve pain:
- Pain-relief medications
- Anti-migraine drugs
- Anti-nausea medicines
- Preventive Treatment
Recommended for frequent or severe migraines:
- Preventive medications
- Long-term neurological management
- Trigger control strategies
- Lifestyle & Trigger Management
- Regular sleep schedule
- Stress reduction techniques
- Adequate hydration
- Balanced diet
- Avoiding known triggers
- Advanced Neurological Care
For chronic or resistant migraines:
- Individualised treatment plans
- Long-term monitoring
- Multidisciplinary care approach
Why Migraine Needs Neurological Care
Migraine is often misdiagnosed or under-treated. Improper use of painkillers can lead to medication overuse headache, worsening symptoms.
A neurologist focuses on:
- Correct diagnosis
- Preventive treatment
- Reducing attack frequency
- Improving long-term quality of life
Role of a Neurologist in Headache Management
A neurologist helps by:
- Differentiating migraine from other headaches
- Identifying secondary causes
- Preventing complications
- Avoiding unnecessary investigations
- Providing structured long-term care
About Dr. Kunal Bahrani
Dr. Kunal Bahrani is an experienced neurologist with special expertise in managing chronic headaches, migraines, vertigo, and pain-related neurological conditions. He is known for his patient-centric, evidence-based approach and focus on long-term relief rather than temporary symptom control.
Patients trust him for:
- Accurate diagnosis
- Clear explanation of condition
- Ethical treatment planning
- Personalised migraine management
When Should You Consult Dr. Kunal Bahrani for Headache or Migraine?
Consult a neurologist if:
- Headaches are frequent or worsening
- Pain interferes with daily activities
- Over-the-counter medicines are ineffective
- Headache is associated with neurological symptoms
- Migraine attacks are recurring
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Is migraine a lifelong condition?
Migraine is chronic but can be effectively controlled with proper treatment.
- Can migraine be cured permanently?
While there is no permanent cure, symptoms can be significantly reduced.
- How often is migraine considered chronic?
If headaches occur on 15 or more days per month.
- Are headaches always related to stress?
No. Stress is a trigger, but neurological causes are common.
- When should MRI be done for headaches?
MRI is advised when warning signs or neurological symptoms are present.
- Can lifestyle changes reduce migraine attacks?
Yes, lifestyle management plays a major role in migraine control.
- Is migraine hereditary?
Yes, migraine often runs in families.
- Which doctor is best for migraine treatment?
A neurologist is best for accurate diagnosis and long-term care.
Living with persistent headaches or migraines does not have to be your normal. With extensive expertise in neurological care and advanced interventional treatments, Dr. (Prof.) Kunal Bahrani is recognised as the most trusted Headache and Migraine Doctor in Faridabad. His dedicated Headache/Migraine Clinic in Faridabad provides comprehensive evaluation, personalised treatment plans, and cutting-edge therapies to help patients regain control of their lives—pain-free, productive, and confident.