If you have severe throbbing headaches that last for several hours and are accompanied by any of the common symptoms associated with migraine, you may want to see your doctor and talk about migraines. It can be helpful for the doctor if you track your symptoms and bring that information with you to your appointment.

Migraines themselves are not a danger to your health or longevity. However, they can mask other serious problems with the brain. If the pattern of your headaches changes or if your headaches begin to feel different to you, talk to the doctor to make sure it is not a sign of a more serious problem. See your doctor immediately or go to the emergency room if you have any of the following symptoms:

• An abrupt, severe headache.
• Headache with fever, stiff neck, rash, mental confusion, seizures, double vision, weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking.
• Headache subsequent to a head injury, especially if the headache gets progressively worse.
• A chronic headache that is worse after exertion or sudden movement.