If you are experiencing headaches or migraines in East London, you should see a general practitioner (GP) when headaches are severe, persistent, recurring, or interfere with daily life.
While occasional headaches are common, frequent or intense headaches may indicate an underlying condition that requires medical assessment.
Common Causes of Headaches and Migraines
Headaches and migraines can be triggered by a range of factors, including:
- Stress or tension
- Dehydration
- Poor sleep
- Eye strain
- Sinus infections
- Hormonal changes
- Underlying medical conditions
Identifying the cause is key to effective treatment.
What’s the Difference Between a Headache and a Migraine?
Understanding the difference helps determine when medical care is needed.
Headaches:
- Often cause dull or pressure-like pain
- May affect both sides of the head
- Are usually mild to moderate
Migraines:
- Often cause intense, throbbing pain
- May affect one side of the head
- Can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or sensitivity to light and sound
Migraines often require medical guidance for effective management.
When Are Headaches or Migraines a Concern?
You should book a GP appointment if:
- Headaches occur frequently
- Pain worsens or becomes severe
- Headaches disrupt work or daily activities
- You experience nausea, vomiting, or visual disturbances
- Headaches are new or different from usual
- Pain does not improve with basic pain relief
Headache Symptoms That Require Urgent Care
Seek emergency medical attention if headaches are accompanied by:
- Sudden, severe pain
- Confusion or loss of consciousness
- Weakness or numbness
- Fever with neck stiffness
- Changes in vision or speech
These symptoms may indicate a serious condition.
What to Expect During a GP Visit
During a consultation, a GP will:
- Review your headache history and symptoms
- Assess possible triggers
- Conduct a physical examination
- Recommend appropriate treatment or further investigation if needed
Accurate diagnosis supports effective relief.
How a GP Treats Headaches and Migraines
Treatment depends on the cause and may include:
- Medication for pain relief or migraine management
- Lifestyle and trigger management advice
- Monitoring headache patterns
- Referral for further assessment if necessary
Managing Headaches at Home vs Seeing a Doctor
Headaches May Be Managed at Home If:
- Pain is mild and occasional
- Symptoms improve with rest and hydration
- No additional symptoms are present
See a GP If:
- Headaches are frequent or severe
- Symptoms worsen or change
- You are unsure of the cause
A GP provides clarity and long-term management strategies.
Headaches and Chronic Health Conditions
People with chronic health conditions should seek GP advice if headaches occur frequently, as they may be linked to blood pressure, medication side effects, or other underlying issues.
Preventing Headache and Migraine Complications
Regular GP care helps:
- Identify triggers early
- Reduce headache frequency
- Improve quality of life
- Prevent long-term complications
Preventative healthcare plays a key role in headache management.
Conclusion: Know When to Seek Medical Advice
Headache and migraine symptoms in East London should not be ignored when pain is persistent, severe, or disruptive.
A general practitioner provides accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and guidance to support long-term wellbeing.
