If you are suffering from headaches and would like to see a doctor, it is often a good idea to keep a mental (and written!) log of your headache patterns and behaviours to better aid your doctor in treating you.
Here are some questions to help you log your headache:
1. Where/what is your headache …
- location?
- duration?
- severity?
- character (dull, sharp, throbbing)?
2. Is there anything that triggers your headache (e.g., certain foods or after a meal, stress, bright lights, certain smells or sounds, fasting or sleep disturbances)?
3. Does anything aggravate your headache (physical exertion, coughing, bending down or sexual activity)?
4. What relieves them?
5. How frequently do you get these headaches?
6. How long have you had these headaches for?
7. Does the headache occur at any specific time during the day, e.g., after waking up?
8. Are your headaches related to hormonal changes or cycles?
9. Does anyone in the family have history of headaches?
10. Do your headaches occur after any of the following:
- fatigue
- yawning
- sleepiness
- euphoria
11. Are your headaches accompanied by nausea, vomiting, cold hands/feet, seizures, weakness of the limbs, slurred speech, fever or other symptoms?
12. Have you experienced a recent head trauma or a fall?
If you are suffering from acute or chronic headaches, please take time to make an appointment with Dr Jamieson who may be able to help you with a long-term remedy and help rule out any serious possible causes. To make an appointment with Dr. Jamieson, please call 2523 8044. Our medical clinic in Hong Kong Central is conveniently located.