Headache Clinic Specialist

Memphis Neurology

Neurology Specialists located in Germantown, TN & Southaven, MS

The headache clinic at Memphis Neurology specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of head pain. Board-certified neurologist Shiva Natarajan, MD, Amanda Humbers, FNP, and his team at Memphis Neurology have extensive experience evaluating and treating all types of headaches in patients of all ages at two convenient locations in Germantown, Tennessee, and Southaven, Mississippi. To find relief from painful headaches, call the nearest office or book an appointment online today.

Headache Clinic Q&A

What are the different types of headaches?

Headaches fall into two categories. Primary headaches occur due to changes in brain chemistry, nerve issues, problems with blood vessels, or muscle tension. Secondary headaches arise from an underlying condition, such as allergies, muscle tension, or head trauma.

Symptoms vary depending on the cause of your headache. Symptoms for the most common types of headaches include:

Migraines 

Migraines can cause debilitating pain that lasts for several days. Prodromal symptoms may cause visual disturbances before migraine head pain begins. These may include holes in your vision, flashing lights, or zigzag patterns.

Cluster headaches

These headaches typically occur in the area around or behind one eye. They can cause severe burning or stabbing pain. You might also have swelling, redness, or flushing on the affected side during a cluster headache.

Tension headaches

Tension headaches cause dull, aching pain, usually on both sides of the head. You might feel increased sensitivity around your neck, forehead, and scalp during a tension headache.

When should I see a neurologist for a headache?

Everyone gets headaches now and then. Most headaches respond to over-the-counter pain medicine and resolve within 48 hours. 

Schedule an evaluation at the Memphis Neurology headache clinic if your headache lasts more than two days or you have a headache 15 days out of the month for three consecutive months. You should also visit the clinic if you experience any of the following conditions:

  • A headache after a head injury
  • Headaches that interfere with daily activities
  • Headaches that don’t respond to over-the-counter drugs
  • Headaches that cause extreme pain

If confusion, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, blurry vision, or fever accompany your headache, call the clinic right away or seek emergency medical care.

How does treatment relieve headaches?

The headache clinic at Memphis Neurology is equipped with advanced diagnostic equipment, including CT scans and electroencephalography (EEG). This helps the team determine the exact cause of your headache so they can recommend a customized treatment plan to relieve your head pain. 

Depending on individual factors, your neurologist may recommend:

  • Avoiding headache triggers
  • Stress reduction techniques
  • Prescription pain medications
  • Therapeutic Botox® injections
  • Nerve blocks
  • Trigger point injections
  • Baclofen therapy (a muscle relaxant to address tension headaches)

If you suffer from debilitating or chronic headaches, don’t wait to visit the headache clinic at Memphis Neurology. Call the nearest location or book an appointment online today.