How effective is GP consultation for migraine?

Migraine commonly causes throbbing head pain with nausea or sensitivity to light and sound, and some people notice visual or sensory aura. A GP asks about timing, triggers, associated symptoms, medicines and how headaches affect daily life. They may examine your nerves, vision, blood pressure and general health.

This history helps separate migraine from tension-type headache, medication-overuse headache and less common but serious causes. When the pattern is typical and the examination is reassuring, the GP can discuss an acute treatment plan and ways to reduce attacks. Recurrent, disabling or changing headaches may need follow-up or referral.

Keep a headache diary recording onset, duration, pain location, possible triggers, aura, sleep, meals, menstrual timing and medicines taken. Bring information about health conditions and current treatments. During an attack, reduce light and noise, drink fluids if able and follow the agreed medicine instructions. Avoid increasing pain medicines without review, because frequent use can sustain headaches.

Call emergency services for a sudden, explosive headache, new weakness or numbness, trouble speaking, seizure, fainting, confusion, severe vision change or a stiff neck with fever. Seek prompt assessment for a new headache after head injury, during pregnancy, with persistent vomiting or when the usual pattern changes substantially. Do not assume a familiar diagnosis explains a new warning sign.

Ask: Does my pattern fit migraine? Which symptoms would suggest another cause? What should I take at the first sign? How often can I use it? Would prevention, a diary or referral help?