Headache Diagnostic Tool

Answer the questions below about your headache symptoms. This is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

Step 1: Check for Urgent Warning Signs (Red Flags)

If you answer ‘Yes’ to ANY of these, stop and seek immediate medical attention.

Sudden, severe “thunderclap” onset (worst headache ever, peaks within 60 seconds)? Headache with fever AND stiff neck? Headache with new neurological problems (weakness, numbness, vision loss, confusion, seizure, trouble speaking, balance issues)? New type of headache starting after age 50? Significant change or worsening pattern of your usual headaches? Headache following a recent head injury? Headache with other systemic symptoms (unexplained weight loss, night sweats) or risk factors (cancer, HIV)? Headache that significantly worsens upon standing up? Headache consistently triggered by coughing, sneezing, or physical exertion?

Step 2: Describe the Headache Pain

Intensity (Typical):

Mild to Moderate (annoying, but can usually function) Moderate to Severe (difficult to function, may need to stop activities) Severe to Excruciating (incapacitating)

Location:

Both sides of the head (e.g., like a band, across forehead, back of head) Primarily one side of the head (can sometimes switch or spread) Strictly one side, focused in/around one eye or temple

Quality/Feeling:

Dull ache, pressure, tightening, squeezing Throbbing, pulsing Sharp, stabbing, boring, burning

Step 3: Associated Symptoms & Factors

Do you experience:

Nausea or Vomiting? Increased sensitivity to Light (photophobia)? Increased sensitivity to Sound (phonophobia)? Aura (visual changes like flashing lights, blind spots, zigzags, OR sensory changes like tingling/numbness) before or during the headache?

Autonomic Symptoms (on the SAME side as pain):

Tearing or Redness of the eye? Nasal congestion or Runny nose? Eyelid drooping or Swelling? Facial sweating?

Effect of Routine Physical Activity (e.g., walking, climbing stairs):

Makes the headache worse Does not significantly worsen the headache No effect, OR you feel restless/agitated and need to pace

Typical Behavior During Attack:

Prefer to rest in a dark, quiet place Feel restless, agitated, unable to sit still, may pace Can often continue activities, though uncomfortable

Pattern (Optional):

Do headaches occur in groups/clusters (daily for weeks/months) then disappear for months/years? Do you use acute headache medication (OTC or prescription) 10-15 or more days per month?

Headache Symptom Checker