Diagnosis and investigation of headache

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Headache is one of the commonest medical complaints. It is usually benign but may be the first presentation of serious disease. OBJECTIVE: This article reviews the symptoms and signs that suggest the diagnosis of the common headaches and discusses which headache presentations require investigation. DISCUSSION: An accurate clinical history is the key to diagnosing the cause of a headache. A new headache of acute onset or progressing over days to weeks or associated with abnormal neurological signs requires investigation.