When to See a Provider for Chronic Headaches

Everyone gets the occasional headache. But when they start showing up more days than not, it’s time to look closer. At Michigan Avenue Primary Care in Chicago, Illinois, our providers understand how disruptive chronic headaches can be. We’re here to help you figure out what’s behind them and create a plan to bring lasting relief.

Defining chronic headaches

Headaches are considered chronic when they occur at least 15 days a month for three months or longer. They don’t all look or feel the same. Some may be dull and achy, while others are intense and throbbing.

The most common types of chronic headaches include:

• Tension-type headaches that cause steady, band-like pressure across the forehead or back of the head
• Migraine disease that brings pounding pain, often on one side of the head, and may be paired with nausea or light sensitivity
• Cluster headaches that come in cyclical patterns, usually with severe pain behind or around one eye
• New daily persistent headaches, which appear suddenly and then stick around, often without a clear trigger

Each of these can interfere with your ability to work, sleep, and enjoy daily life.

Primary vs. secondary headaches

Primary headaches, like migraines and tension headaches, aren’t caused by another underlying condition — they’re the condition themselves. Secondary headaches, on the other hand, are symptoms of something else. They can stem from sinus infections, high blood pressure, medication overuse, or more serious issues like brain injury or vascular problems.

The distinction matters. If your headaches are secondary, addressing the root cause is the key to relief.

When to come in and see us

So, when do chronic headaches warrant medical care? While it’s normal to try over-the-counter remedies at first, don’t ignore the warning signs.

It’s time to schedule an appointment if you notice:

• Your headaches become more frequent or severe
• Headaches wake you up at night or strike first thing in the morning
• Headaches paired with nausea, vomiting, vision changes, or confusion
• Headaches following an injury, such as a fall or bump on the head
• A sudden new type of headache you’ve never experienced before

These signs can point to conditions that need medical evaluation and treatment.

How we can help

At Michigan Avenue Primary Care, we don’t just treat your pain — we work to understand the whole picture. Our team starts with a detailed history, physical exam, and, if needed, diagnostic tests to uncover the underlying cause of your headaches.

Treatment may include:

• Medication to ease or prevent certain headache types
• Lifestyle and nutrition guidance to reduce known triggers
• Stress management strategies to lower tension-related headaches
• Referrals for imaging or specialist care if we suspect something more serious

When headaches become a fixture in your life, you shouldn’t push through them alone.

Don’t wait for chronic headaches to take control of your days. If you’re in Chicago and struggling with frequent or severe headaches, call Michigan Avenue Primary Care or book an appointment online today. We’ll help you find answers and get back to feeling like yourself.