Migraine & Headache — Online Consultation & Treatment
Get professional medical care for migraines and headaches. Speak to qualified UK clinicians online with same-day appointments and specialized treatment plans.
- Professional online consultation and treatment advice
- Same-day prescriptions when appropriate
- Secure video consultations from home
Secure Telehealth Platform Trusted by Over 150,000 Patients
What are Migraines and Headaches?
Migraines and headaches are common neurological conditions causing head pain. Migraines are typically more severe, often accompanied by nausea, light sensitivity, and visual disturbances. Other headaches include tension headaches, sinus headaches, and cluster headaches.
Common Symptoms
- Throbbing or pulsating head pain
- Sensitivity to light and sound
- Nausea and vomiting
- Visual disturbances (aura)
- Pressure around eyes and temples
- Neck and shoulder tension
- Fatigue and difficulty concentrating
- Dizziness or vertigo
Common Triggers and Causes
- Stress and anxiety
- Hormonal changes
- Certain foods (chocolate, cheese, wine)
- Sleep disturbances
- Eye strain and poor posture
- Dehydration
- Weather changes
- Bright lights or loud noises
How Our Online Consultation Can Help
- Identify headache type and potential triggers
- Prescribe appropriate acute and preventive medications
- Develop personalized migraine management plans
- Provide lifestyle and dietary advice
- Assess need for neurological referral
- Monitor treatment effectiveness and adjust as needed
Home Management
- Rest in a dark, quiet room
- Apply cold or warm compress
- Stay hydrated
- Practice relaxation techniques
- Maintain regular sleep schedule
- Avoid known triggers
- Gentle neck and shoulder massage
Medical Treatments
- Acute migraine medications (triptans)
- Preventive medications for frequent migraines
- Pain relief medications
- Anti-nausea medications
- Botox injections for chronic migraines
- Specialist neurology referral when needed
Commonly Prescribed Medications
Sumatriptan
Fast-acting triptan medication for acute migraine attacks
Propranolol
Beta-blocker used for migraine prevention
Topiramate
Anti-seizure medication effective for migraine prevention
Rizatriptan (Maxalt)
Rapid-dissolving triptan for migraine relief
When to Seek Urgent Care
- Sudden, severe headache unlike any before
- Headache with fever, stiff neck, or rash
- Headache with vision changes or speech problems
- Headache after head injury
- Progressively worsening headaches
- Headache with weakness or numbness
- Severe headache during pregnancy
- Headache with confusion or memory loss
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention by calling 999 or visiting your nearest A&E.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a migraine and a regular headache?
Migraines are typically more severe, one-sided, throbbing, and often accompanied by nausea, light sensitivity, or visual disturbances. Regular headaches are usually milder and don't have these additional symptoms.
How often can I take migraine medication?
This depends on the specific medication. Our clinicians will provide clear guidelines to avoid medication overuse headaches, which can occur with frequent use.
Can stress really cause migraines?
Yes, stress is one of the most common migraine triggers. Learning stress management techniques can be an important part of migraine prevention.
Should I keep a headache diary?
Yes, tracking your headaches, triggers, and symptoms can help identify patterns and improve treatment effectiveness.
When might I need to see a neurologist?
Our clinicians may refer you to a neurologist for frequent migraines, unusual symptoms, or if standard treatments aren't effective.
Can certain foods trigger migraines?
Yes, common food triggers include aged cheeses, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and foods containing MSG or artificial sweeteners.
Medically Reviewed by: Mohammed Hassan - Independent Prescriber
Last Updated: January 2025