The Importance of Headache Logs

For many patients, headaches can be both debilitating and strenuous to manage. Mundane tasks can quickly become impossible to complete when dealing with excruciating symptoms such as the feeling of pounding in your head. While some only experience headaches now and again, others are unfortunate enough to be struck by them more than 15 times a month (approximately for chronic cases). If you find yourself falling into the latter scenario, Nassau Suffolk Neurology can provide you with quality neurological care. Dr. Adamo, our neurologist in Lindenhurst, NY, may recommend starting a headache log, which can be the first step in managing this situation.

Types of Headaches:

One of the reasons headaches can be so challenging to treat is that there are many different variations of the condition. Treatment that works for one may not always work for another one, which is why you should always consult with our neurologist in Lindenhurst, NY, when headaches become unbearable. Dr. Adamo will be able to diagnose the type of headache you are suffering from and move swiftly towards treatment. Below are some of the most common types of headaches our Lindenhurst neurologist has experience in treating: 

• Allergy or sinus headaches.
• Cluster headaches.
• Exertion headaches.
• Migraine headaches.
• Tension headaches. 

Common Symptoms Experienced:

Since there are several headaches to be had, it only stands to reason that there are also numerous symptoms that can affect you. By documenting if and when you experience any of the below, our neurologist in Lindenhurst, NY, can gain a better understanding of what exactly you are suffering from:

• Moderate to severe pain affecting the whole head.
• Sensitivity to light.
• Pain that worsens with sudden movement or straining.
• Inability to concentrate.
• Experiencing a deep constant pain in your cheekbones.
• Feeling a band-like pain or pressure more often than not. 

What Is A Headache Log?

When trying to improve their fitness levels, many people tend to start fitness logs to monitor their workouts in food intake. Doing so helps to track progress and assess any changes that need to be made. What you may not realize is that you can use this same tool for your headaches. By maintaining a proper headache log, you will be able to:

• Track the duration, severity, and frequency of your headaches over time.
• Pinpoint patterns that can be useful in determining triggers and improving treatment methods. 
• Input medication used and monitor its response time.
• Have a long term record of what has and has not worked.  

Why Headache Logs Are So Important:

As we previously stated, there are many different types of headaches you can suffer from, each coming with its own set of symptoms. This can complicate the diagnosis process. However, keeping a headache log can help ease the situation. Since there will be a wealth of documented information to be used, our neurologist in Lindenhurst, NY, can more easily pinpoint the problem. You will also be able to track what has and has not worked overtime, which will play a crucial role in all potential treatments moving forward.       

Nassau Suffolk Neurology:

As our neurologist in Lindenhurst, NY, Dr. Adamo has over 15 years of experience in treating neurological conditions, he can provide patients with optimal care. Headaches can be one of the more complex conditions to treat, and detrimental to the quality of life in our patients that suffer from them. Luckily, there are ways that you can aid in the treatment process. By keeping a headache log, you can be able to monitor the condition yourself, and learn to avoid the triggers that cause them. You also will be able to show Dr. Adamo the effectiveness of any medication that has been prescribed, making it easy to see what changes need to be made. For more information about how a headache log can be beneficial to you, make sure to contact us today!