Headache Specialist
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Kenneth J Eaddy, MD
Board Certified in Interventional Pain Management & Internal Medicine located in Jacksonville, FL
Everyone experiences headaches on occasion, but if your symptoms keep you from work, exercise, or other routine activities, it’s important to seek professional help. At his self-titled practice, double board-certified interventional pain management physician Kenneth J Eaddy, MD, boasts years of experience diagnosing and treating headaches. To make an appointment, call the office in Jacksonville, Florida, or click the online booking feature today.
Headaches Q & A
What is a headache?
A headache is a common condition characterized by pain in your head or face. Headaches affect everyone differently. For some people, the pain is dull and throbbing; for others, it’s sharp and stabbing.
Most headaches get better on their own with rest and at-home treatment. Even so, if your symptoms regularly occur, it may point to an underlying medical issue.
What are the types of headaches?
Headaches fall into two categories:
Primary headaches
A primary headache occurs because of the overactivity of the pain-sensitive structures in your skull. These headaches aren’t the result of an underlying medical condition. Instead, they’re caused by things like stress, genetics, or environmental factors.
Secondary headaches
A secondary headache occurs because of an underlying issue, like a traumatic brain injury, high blood pressure, or an infection. Often, secondary headaches require medical intervention.
When should I visit the doctor about headaches?
Make an appointment with Dr. Eaddy if you experience a headache that occurs alongside other neurological symptoms like:
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Loss of balance
- Numbness or tingling
- Vision changes
You should also make an appointment with Dr. Eaddy if your headaches prevent you from getting a good night’s sleep or they occur following head trauma, like a car accident or a sports injury.
How is a headache evaluated and diagnosed?
To evaluate and diagnose headaches, Dr. Eaddy reviews your medical history and asks about your symptoms, including how often the headaches happen, how long they last, and what they feel like. Dr. Eaddy also asks questions about your lifestyle, including smoking or drinking alcohol habits, and how often you exercise.
Next, Dr. Eaddy conducts a physical exam and orders laboratory tests, including blood work and urinalysis. If these measures don’t provide enough insight into your condition, Dr. Eaddy might also order diagnostic imaging, like an MRI or a CT scan. These procedures can determine if your headaches occur because of an issue with the central nervous system.
How is a headache treated?
Treatment of a headache depends on a variety of factors, including your age and medical history, the type of headaches you experience, and the severity of your symptoms. Whenever possible, Dr. Eaddy recommends minimally invasive treatments. He might recommend:
- Peripheral nerve blocks
- Peripheral nerve ablation
- Peripheral nerve stimulation
- Botox® injections for migraines
Headache treatment aims to relieve uncomfortable symptoms and restore your quality of life.
To explore the various treatment options for persistent headaches, make an appointment at the practice of Kenneth J Eaddy, MD, by calling the office or clicking the online booking feature today.
