Red flags & when to go in person for Headache

Audience: adult

Headaches are common and can often be managed through telemedicine consultations. Many headaches are not serious and can be treated with self-care and advice from healthcare providers remotely. However, some headaches may signal a more serious condition that requires immediate in-person evaluation. This article helps you understand when telemedicine is appropriate for headache care and when you should seek urgent, in-person medical attention. Recognizing red flags such as sudden severe headaches, neurological symptoms, or headaches following injury is important to ensure safe and timely care. Telemedicine can help assess headache symptoms, provide guidance on management, and determine if further testing or emergency care is needed. Always prioritize your safety by seeking emergency care if you experience warning signs.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden, severe headache described as "worst headache of your life" – seek emergency care immediately.
• Headache accompanied by fever, neck stiffness, confusion, seizures, or weakness – go to emergency services.
• New headache following a head injury – obtain urgent in-person evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessment of common tension-type headaches and migraines without new or severe symptoms.
• Follow-up care for chronic headache management.
• Advice on lifestyle changes and over-the-counter treatments.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Sudden, severe headaches with neurological symptoms.
• Headaches with signs of infection such as fever and neck stiffness.
• Headaches after trauma or injury requiring physical examination and imaging.

Common Types of Headaches

Most headaches are tension-type or migraines, which often can be managed at home or through telemedicine. Tension headaches usually cause a dull, aching pain, while migraines may cause throbbing pain with nausea or sensitivity to light. These headaches typically do not require urgent in-person care unless they change in pattern or severity.

When to Use Telemedicine for Headache

Telemedicine can be a good first step if you have a history of similar headaches, mild to moderate pain, and no new or unusual symptoms. A healthcare provider can help assess your symptoms, suggest treatments, and decide if you need further evaluation. Telemedicine is also useful for follow-up visits or managing chronic headaches.

Red Flags That Need In-Person Care

Certain symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition. Seek emergency care if you experience:

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

Before your tele-visit, prepare by:

After Your Telemedicine Visit

Follow your provider's recommendations carefully. This may include:

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• List your headache symptoms including onset, duration, and intensity.
• Note any recent changes in your headache pattern or new symptoms.
• Prepare a list of all medications and supplements you are taking.
• Find a quiet, private space with good lighting for your telemedicine visit.
• Test your internet connection and device functionality before the appointment.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment plan and medication instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
• Keep a headache diary to track frequency, triggers, and response to treatment.
• Schedule an in-person visit if symptoms worsen or new red flags appear.
• Contact emergency services if you develop sudden severe headache or neurological symptoms.
• Adopt recommended lifestyle modifications to help reduce headache frequency.

FAQs

Can telemedicine diagnose the cause of my headache?

Telemedicine providers can assess your symptoms and medical history to suggest possible causes and recommend treatments. However, some causes require physical exams or imaging tests that need in-person visits.

When should I go to the emergency room for a headache?

Go to the emergency room if you have a sudden, severe headache unlike any before, headache with fever and neck stiffness, confusion, weakness, seizures, or after a head injury. These could indicate serious conditions needing urgent care.

Can I get prescriptions for headache medications through telemedicine?

Yes, healthcare providers can often prescribe medications during telemedicine visits if appropriate. However, some medications may require in-person evaluation depending on local regulations and your health history.

How can I manage headaches at home safely?

You can try rest, hydration, over-the-counter pain relievers, and avoiding known headache triggers. Telemedicine providers can offer personalized advice based on your symptoms.

What information should I provide during a telemedicine visit for headache?

Provide details about your headache frequency, intensity, duration, location, associated symptoms, any recent changes, and your medical history. Also share current medications and any treatments you've tried.

Sources

1. Headache — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Headache Information — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Headache: Symptoms and causes — Mayo Clinic.
4. Headache — Merck Manuals: Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care. If you experience any red flag symptoms or worsening condition, seek immediate in-person evaluation.