Dr. Seymour Diamond, Director of the National Headache Foundation and founder of the Chicago-based Diamond Headache Clinic, suggests proper communication helps both the doctor and the headache sufferer. With detailed communication, a physician is more likely to make a proper diagnosis, making treatment faster and more effective. Don't assume doctors will always ask the 'right' questions. While pain descriptions are needed for diagnosis, it's important to remember that many times the doctor fails to probe for in-depth information about your pain. Try to be as exact as possible.
Pain sensation is just part of the story.
Some doctors believe that your pain's impact or debilitating effect is equally or sometimes more revealing than a description of its characteristics. These factors could be vital to your doctor when making a diagnosis and treatment recommendations. Timing, frequency and associated symptoms are also important. Location of your pain can be just as telling as the way it feels. Keep a diary of your headaches in preparation for your first doctor visit.