Abstract purple and pink teardrop shapes with a small orange spot on a black background.
Life with pain

I have a headache. When should I see a doctor?

Neurologist Signe Bruun Munksgaard guides you on when to contact your doctor about your headache – from recurring attacks to changes in patterns and new symptoms.

By
Signe Munksgaard
Neurologist, PhD

It can be difficult to know when to contact your doctor about your headache. That is why we asked our neurologist, Signe Bruun Munksgaard, what you should be particularly aware of, and when you should contact your doctor to get an assessment and potentially start treatment.

According to our neurologist and headache specialist Signe Bruun Munksgaard, you should see your doctor if you experience:

  • Recurring headaches
  • Changes in your headache
  • Other symptoms alongside the headache
  • That the headache limits your daily life

Recurring headaches

“If you experience recurring headaches and do not get good relief from the over-the-counter medication you take to get rid of the headache, then I think you should go to the doctor to get some advice.”

Changes in your headache

“If you experience a sudden change in how often your headaches occur over a short period – weeks to months – you should see your doctor. You may have had headaches a few times a month for a long time, but suddenly start suffering from them weekly or daily. In that case, it is always a good idea to discuss it with your doctor and have the cause investigated.”

Other symptoms alongside the headache

“If you suddenly start experiencing other symptoms alongside your headache, such as dizziness or difficulty speaking, you should see a doctor immediately. It is essential to investigate whether there is a connection to your headache and to rule out any other causes for these symptoms.”

The headache affects your daily life

“If you find that you have a disabling headache more than once a week, so that you cannot perform your work as usual, and you also do not get relief from painkillers, then I think you should talk to your doctor and explore what options are available.”

Read also: Prepare for your first doctor's appointment regarding your headache with neurologist, Signe Munksgaard.

Are you in doubt about whether you suffer from migraines? Take our test and get an indication of whether your symptoms could be a sign of migraine.

Two hands holding each other with a heart above, symbolizing love and connection.

“Hemi is a private specialist clinic featuring some of the country's leading experts in headaches and related conditions. We offer thorough assessment and targeted treatment for both children and adults.”

Portræt af ung kvinde med langt brunt hår, smilende, iført hvid bluse og sølvsmykker mod neutral baggrund.
Anna Løfqvist
Head of Brand & Communication
Green semi-circular shape with a soft shadow in the top left corner.
Green semi-circular shape with a soft shadow in the top left corner.
Green semi-circular shape with a soft shadow in the top left corner.
Green semi-circular shape with a soft shadow in the top left corner.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Over 1,000 Danes receive advice on managing their headaches directly in their inbox every two weeks.

Abstract purple and pink teardrop shapes with a small orange spot on a black background.
Abstract purple shape with rounded protrusions on the bottom left of a transparent background.