Migraines are more than just headaches. For the millions of individuals worldwide who experience recurring, throbbing head pain often accompanied by nausea, light sensitivity, and visual disturbances, migraines can be debilitating. If you or a loved one suffers from frequent or severe headaches, you may be wondering: which doctor to consult for migraine? In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore what migraines are, how they’re diagnosed and treated, and why seeing a specialist, specifically a neurologist like Dr. Deepak Aiwale, can make all the difference.
A migraine is a neurological condition characterised by intense, pulsating head pain, often on one side of the head. Unlike ordinary tension headaches, migraines are accompanied by additional symptoms—called aura—in up to 25% of sufferers. Aura may manifest as:
• Visual disturbances (flashing lights, blind spots)
• Sensory changes (tingling in face or limbs)
• Speech or language difficulties
Migraines typically last from 4 to 72 hours and can significantly impair daily activities.
Epidemiology
• Affects approximately 15% of the global population
• More common in women (3:1 female-to-male ratio)
• Often begins in adolescence or early adulthood
| Feature | Migraine | Tension Headache | Cluster Headache |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pain Quality | Throbbing, pulsating | Steady, pressing | Severe, piercing |
| Location | Typically one side | Both sides | Around one eye |
| Duration | 4–72 hours | 30 minutes–7 days | 15 minutes–3 hours |
| Associated Symptoms | Nausea, photophobia, aura | Rare | Tearing, nasal congestion |
| Response to Activity | Worsens with movement | Unaffected | Restlessness |
Migraines can be precipitated by various internal and external factors. Identifying and avoiding triggers is often the first step in management.
» Dietary triggers: Aged cheeses, processed meats, MSG, artificial sweeteners
» Beverages: Alcohol (especially red wine), caffeine withdrawal
» Sleep: Too little or too much sleep
» Environmental: Bright or flickering lights, strong odors, loud noises
» Hormonal: Menstrual cycle, hormonal fluctuations in women
» Stress: Emotional stress or relaxation after stress (“weekend headache”)
» Weather: Changes in barometric pressure or humidity
Keeping a headache diary to track potential triggers can empower you and your doctor to develop an effective avoidance plan.
Not every headache requires a specialist visit. However, you should consult a doctor if you experience:
⁃ Frequent migraines: More than four episodes per month
⁃ Severe pain: Pain that interferes with daily life or work
⁃ Unusual symptoms: Sudden “thunderclap” headache, neurological deficits lasting beyond your typical aura
⁃ Poor response to over-the-counter medications
⁃ Signs of complications: Fever, stiff neck, rash, confusion, or weakness
Your primary care provider may manage initial treatment. Yet, for persistent, complex, or refractory migraines, you’ll likely be referred to a neurologist the specialist trained in disorders of the brain and nervous system.
Role of a Neurologist
A neurologist is a physician with advanced training in diagnosing and treating neurological disorders, including migraine. Neurologists can:
• Differentiate migraine from other headache types
• Order appropriate imaging (MRI, CT) to rule out structural causes
• Prescribe specialized acute and preventive therapies
• Offer interventional options (nerve blocks, Botox injections)
• Coordinate with headache specialists for refractory cases
Migraine in Women
• Hormonal fluctuations play a pivotal role.
• Menstrual migraines may require short-term perimenstrual prophylaxis.
Contraceptive counselling is vital to prevent estrogen-triggered attacks.
Migraine With Aura
• Slightly higher stroke risk needs careful cardiovascular risk assessment.
• Avoid estrogen-containing contraceptives if you have an aura.
• Defined as ≥ 15 headache days/month for > 3 months, with ≥ 8 migraine days.
• Often requires a combination of preventive therapies and multidisciplinary care.
Beyond medical treatment, holistic self-care helps minimise migraine burden:
• Keep a headache diary: Note triggers, medications, symptom patterns
• Establish routines: Consistent meal times, sleep schedule, exercise
• Build a support network: Educate family and friends about your condition
• Mind-body practices: Yoga, meditation, and deep-breathing exercises
• Stay informed: Work closely with a specialist like Dr. Deepak Aiwale for evolving therapies
Q1. Which doctor to I consult for migraine?
A neurologist, such as Dr. Deepak Aiwale, is the specialist best trained to diagnose and treat migraines, providing advanced therapies and interventional options.
Q2. Can a general physician treat migraines?
Yes, for mild cases. However, for frequent, severe, or atypical migraines, a neurologist’s expertise ensures accurate diagnosis and optimised treatment.
Q3. How long before a migraine should I take my medication?
For acute therapies like triptans, take them at the first sign of headache or aura for maximum relief.
Q4. Are there surgical options for migraine?
Migraine surgery (nerve decompression) is a niche and reserved for refractory cases. Most patients respond to medical and interventional therapies.
Q5. Do lifestyle changes help reduce migraine frequency?
Absolutely. A regular sleep schedule, trigger avoidance, stress management, and hydration can decrease both the frequency and severity of attacks.
Migraines are complex neurological disorders that demand comprehensive evaluation and tailored management. While over-the-counter remedies may provide temporary relief, the question which doctor to consult for migraine? is best answered by a qualified neurologist. Specialist care from experts like Dr. Deepak Aiwale at Solaris Hospital offers advanced diagnostics, evidence-based medication protocols, interventional therapies, and ongoing support. By partnering with a neurologist, keeping a detailed headache diary, and adopting healthy lifestyle practices, you can gain control over migraines and reclaim your quality of life.
Service Road, Ghodbunder Rd, next to AP Shah Institute of Technology, Kasarvadavali, Thane West, Maharashtra 400615
