Headache Disorders Diagnosis and Treatment

Headache Disorders

The International Classification of Headache Disorders classifies primary headaches into four categories: migraine, tension type, trigeminal autonomic cephalgias and other headaches. While headaches are quite common, chronic headaches or severe episodic headaches can be debilitating and warrant an evaluation, as they might be a symptom of another condition, such as an ocular disorder, nutrient deficiency, underlying medical condition or excessive use of over-the-counter medications.

Most people are unaware that orofacial pain specialists have formal training in treating both chronic and isolated headaches. The International Headache Society (IHS) separates headaches using the International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD). This system divides headache into four main categories. The primary headaches include migraine, tension type headaches, trigeminal autonomic cephalgias and other primary headache disorders.

Dr. Faiek has had many years of experience treating headache while in the orofacial pain residency. This included training under the guidance of neurologists, neurosurgeons and pharmacologists, and she also had the opportunity to train with headache fellows at Mayo Clinic’s Headache Fellowship Program, the Pain Clinic at Cedars Sinai Hospital and neurologists in private practice. Dr. Faiek regularly attends headache conferences held by the American Headache Society and Headache Cooperative of the Pacific.