Migraines and Headaches
If you’ve ever had a pounding headache that forced you to cancel plans, lay down in the dark, or miss work—you’ve likely wondered: Is this just a bad headache, or something more?
In this blog, we’ll help you understand the difference between common headaches and migraines, what symptoms shouldn’t be ignored, and when it’s time to see a neurologist for further care.
What’s the Difference Between a Headache and a Migraine?
Headaches are a general term for pain in the head or face. They can happen for lots of reasons, like tension, dehydration, eye strain, or stress.
A migraine is more than just a headache. It’s a neurologic condition that usually includes:
- Throbbing or pulsing pain (often on one side)
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Vision changes or aura
Migraines often run in families and may be triggered by things like hormones, weather changes, lack of sleep, certain foods, or stress.
When Is a Headache Considered Serious?
Most headaches aren’t dangerous—but certain signs can point to more serious issues that need medical attention.
See a doctor right away if your headache is:
- Sudden and severe (like a “thunderclap”)
- Follows a head injury
- Accompanied by fever, stiff neck, or confusion
- Comes with weakness, numbness, or vision loss
These symptoms may signal bleeding, infection, stroke, or other neurologic conditions. Don’t wait—early evaluation matters.
Can a Neurologist Help with Chronic Headaches?
Yes! Neurologists specialize in identifying the type and cause of ongoing headaches and creating treatment plans that work.
You may benefit from seeing a neurologist if you:
- Have more than 4 headaches per month
- Are using over-the-counter pain meds more than 10 days/month
- Experience headaches that interfere with daily life
Treatment may include prescription medications, lifestyle changes, trigger tracking, nerve blocks, or Botox injections.
What If I Have Vision Changes or Numbness with My Headaches?
These symptoms may indicate migraine with aura or could be signs of something more serious like a TIA (mini-stroke).
Aura symptoms can include:
- Flashes of light, zig-zag lines, or blind spots
- Tingling in the hands, face, or lips
- Difficulty speaking or confusion
Aura usually occurs 10–60 minutes before the headache starts. While migraine with aura isn’t always dangerous, it’s important to rule out other causes—especially if these symptoms are new.
Providers Who Treat Headaches and Migraines
At Minneapolis Clinic of Neurology, several providers specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of migraines and chronic headaches. Our team offers a collaborative, patient-focused approach that may also include neuropsychology, physical therapy, or pain management as part of a personalized care plan.
Neurologists Specializing in Headache & Migraine Care
- Dr. William Qubty, MD – Expertise in headache and migraine treatment
- Dr. Rajiv Aggarwal, MD – Sees patients with migraines among other neurological conditions
- Dr. Gurdesh Bedi, MD, FAAN – Provides general neurology care including migraines
- Dr. Shelly L. Larson-Peters, MD – Neurologist treating headaches and migraines
- Dr. Janiece Aldinger, MD – Provides care for general neurology conditions including headaches and migraines
Related Podcast Episodes
Want to hear from our providers directly? Listen to these Neurology Now Podcast episodes from MCN:
🎧 Why Headaches Are More Than Just Headaches – with Dr. William Qubty
🎧 Understanding How Migraines Affect Women – with Dr. Janiece Aldinger
Be Seen Sooner at Minneapolis Clinic of Neurology
If your headaches are frequent, unusual, or affecting your quality of life, don’t wait. Our team of headache and migraine specialists can help you find relief and understand your symptoms.
New to MCN? Talk to your primary care provider and request a referral to Minneapolis Clinic of Neurology by name. Our scheduling team works hard to get new patients seen sooner.
Already a patient? Schedule a follow-up or update your care plan. Request an Appointment
At MCN, we believe you shouldn’t have to wait months for the care you need. That’s why we’ve added new neurologists, expanded services, and more appointment availability—so all our patients can be seen sooner.
