Resources for Patients and Caregivers

For patients

• Web-Based Tool Aids Diagnosis of Headache Disorders
• Caffeine: What you need to know
• Omega-3 fatty acids
  
• A New Way of Looking at Proteins, Fats and Carbohydrates

Find a local neurologist

When possible, it is always best to work with a headache specialist face to face. If you are not able to visit See the American Headache Society's physician referral list to find a neurologist near you. Neither the American Headache Society nor Stanford University assumes responsibility for the names on the list, but these are individuals with appropriate credentials who have an interest in treating headache. We encourage you to discuss any referral to a headache specialist with your primary care provider.

Find a physical therapist

Often, headache sufferers benefit from physical therapy. Find a certified physical therapist near you. (In the box labeled "expertise," enter "neurologic".)

For caregivers

Helping family or friends with a migraine headache

The person with the headache is not the only one who suffers. It is often difficult for a non-migraineur to know how best to help a family member or friend with a severe headache. In general, the more you know about your loved one's headaches and headaches in general, the better able you will be able to live with and care for your migraineur. At the Stanford Headache Clinic, we spend time with families, helping to educate them about headaches. To learn more about migraine care, visit our FAQ page.

Urgent care/emergency room card

This wallet sized card is prepared for each patient at the Headache clinic. We recommend you carry it with you so that an Urgent Care or E.R. doctor can get you the most appropriate rescue for a severe headache without explanation of your history and current medications. This card will be updated as your treatment strategy changes. The UC/ER card lists your medicines, any allergies, other medical conditions, and what the treatment team recommends for rescue when you find yourself in a desperate situation. It also has the number that can be called to discuss your situation with a member of our treatment team.