Headache

Most headaches are not serious. They are usually treated with medicine or rarely with injections. The medical neurologist, an internist with additional special training in brain, spine and nerve problems, usually diagnoses and treats patients with headache. Many headaches are migraine or cluster headaches, both of which are treated with pills by the neurologist.

If the neurologist finds signs of local brain changes or of increased pressure in the head, they will get a CT or MRI scan and refer if something is found needing surgery. If headaches are due to brain tumors, Gamma Knife treatment may not be possible because radiation needs a long time to take affect. Pressure headaches may need immediate relief.