Migraine & chronic headache clinic in Mohali: When is it neurological & what to do

Introduction

Headache is one of the most common neurological complaints seen in outpatient clinics. For many people in Mohali and across Punjab, occasional headaches are a nuisance; for others, recurrent or chronic headaches — especially migraines — are disabling and affect quality of life, work productivity and family responsibilities. This article explains how to distinguish simple headaches from neurological headaches, when to seek expert care, and the diagnostic and treatment options offered at a specialized chronic headache clinic such as Livasa Hospitals Mohali.

Our aim is to help you answer common local questions such as "when is a headache neurological Mohali", "what to do for chronic migraine Mohali" and where to find a migraine specialist Mohali. We will cover causes, red flags, diagnostic tests available in Mohali like MRI and EEG, current evidence-based treatments including preventive options, and practical self-care and lifestyle measures that reduce attacks. If you or a family member experiences frequent or severe headaches, this resource will help you decide when to see a neurologist and how Livasa Mohali’s neurology team can support your recovery.

What is migraine and how does it differ from other headaches?

A migraine is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent moderate-to-severe headache attacks, usually affecting one side of the head, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and heightened sensitivity to light and sound. Migraines can occur with or without aura — sensory or visual warning symptoms such as flashing lights, pins-and-needles, or temporary speech disturbances that precede the headache. Migraines can be episodic (fewer than 15 headache days per month) or chronic (15 or more days per month for three months, of which at least eight days meet migraine criteria).

Other common headache types include:

• Tension-type headache: Usually a bilateral pressing or tightening sensation, often related to stress, poor posture, or muscle tension.
• Cluster headache: Short, severe unilateral attacks often around the eye with autonomic signs (tearing, nasal congestion).
• Secondary headache: Headaches caused by an underlying condition such as infection, intracranial bleeding, tumor, or vascular disorders — these can be neurological emergencies.

Globally, migraine affects about 1 billion people and is among the top causes of years lived with disability. The World Health Organization estimates that roughly 1 in 7 people worldwide experiences migraine. In India, multiple community studies estimate that between 10–15% of adults experience migraine or severe headaches at some point; Punjab clinics are reporting increasing referrals to specialized headache services as awareness grows. At Livasa Mohali, the chronic headache clinic evaluates patients across this spectrum — from tension-type headaches to chronic migraine — using individualized, guideline-based care.

When is a headache neurological? key red flags and signs

Many headaches are primary (not due to another disease) and do not indicate a neurological emergency. However, there are important signs that suggest the headache may be neurological or secondary to a serious disorder and requires urgent evaluation by a neurologist. Knowing these red flags makes a critical difference in outcomes.

Common red flags include:

• Sudden severe ("thunderclap") headache — worst headache of life, peaking within seconds to a minute.
• New headache after age 50 or progressive worsening of a previously stable headache pattern.
• Fever, neck stiffness, or signs of systemic infection accompanying headache.
• Focal neurological deficits such as weakness, numbness, visual loss, speech disturbance, or changes in consciousness.
• Headache after head injury.
• New onset headache in a patient with cancer, immunosuppression, or bleeding disorders.

If you experience any of the above, immediate evaluation is necessary. In Mohali, emergency neurologists at Livasa Hospitals are available to assess severe or sudden-onset headaches. For more routine but concerning patterns — frequent daily headaches, progressive change in pattern, or new neurological symptoms during attacks — a scheduled appointment with a headache specialist or neurology doctor near me search will help you access appropriate testing and treatment.

To make comparisons clear, the following table summarizes features that suggest a primary (benign) headache versus a secondary (potentially neurological) headache:

How to know if a migraine is neurological: symptoms and aura

A migraine attack itself is a neurological phenomenon: it arises from complex brain mechanisms involving neuronal excitability, cortical spreading depression and abnormal activation of pain pathways. Distinguishing a typical migraine from an attack with concerning neurological features is essential. Classic migraine symptoms include a unilateral, pulsating headache that is moderate-to-severe in intensity and aggravated by routine physical activity. Common accompanying features are nausea, vomiting, photophobia (light sensitivity) and phonophobia (sound sensitivity).

Migraine aura consists of transient neurological symptoms that commonly precede the headache or occur together. Typical aura features include:

• Visual aura: flashing lights, zigzag lines, blind spots or shimmering scotomas.
• Sensory aura: pins-and-needles or numbness that often spreads gradually across one side of the body.
• Speech/language aura: transient aphasia or difficulty finding words.
• Motor aura (rare): temporary weakness — this requires specialist evaluation.

When aura or neurological features are prolonged (lasting more than an hour), severe, or do not follow the typical pattern, they may indicate an underlying neurological condition such as stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), seizure, or structural brain lesion. In such cases, further workup is advised. The Livasa Hospitals neurology team in Mohali evaluates aura features carefully and uses appropriate testing (MRI, vascular imaging) to exclude dangerous causes.

Practical tips for patients to recognise concerning features:

• Keep a headache diary noting onset, duration, associated symptoms, and triggers.
• Note any new types of aura or weakness — seek urgent care if these occur.
• Assess severity and if normal painkillers don’t help or headaches are increasingly frequent, consult a neurologist for evaluation and preventive planning.

Diagnosis and tests available in Mohali: what to expect at Livasa Hospitals

A careful clinical history and neurological examination are the cornerstones of headache diagnosis. At Livasa Mohali’s chronic headache clinic, our neurologists begin with a detailed history: attack frequency and duration, pain characteristics, triggers, medications taken, prior imaging, family history, and impact on daily life. This information often clarifies whether a headache is a primary disorder such as migraine or tension headache, or whether further testing is needed to rule out secondary causes.

Common diagnostic tests used in the evaluation of headaches at our Mohali centre include:

• MRI brain (with or without contrast): Preferred imaging to detect structural causes — tumours, small strokes, demyelination.
• MR angiography / CT angiography: To assess blood vessels for aneurysm, dissection or vascular malformations.
• CT scan: Rapid test in emergency settings, good for hemorrhage or acute trauma.
• EEG (electroencephalogram): Helpful where seizures or epileptic activity are suspected.
• Blood tests and lumbar puncture: To look for infection, inflammation, or bleeding if clinically indicated.
• Headache diary and validated questionnaires: For diagnosing chronic migraine and monitoring treatment response.

Many patients ask about costs: search terms such as "MRI for headaches Mohali" or "migraine diagnosis tests Mohali" often appear when planning care. Costs vary by modality and urgency; the clinic staff at Livasa Mohali provide transparent pricing and package options when you book an appointment. Our team can also advise whether imaging is necessary based on clinical criteria, avoiding unnecessary tests while ensuring patient safety.

Treatment options: acute, preventive and advanced interventions

Management of migraine and chronic headache has two parallel goals: relief of acute attacks and prevention of future attacks. At Livasa Mohali, treatment is individualized according to headache type, medical history, comorbidities, and patient preferences. The approach combines medication strategies, procedural interventions, non-pharmacological therapies and lifestyle modifications.

Acute (abortive) treatments aim to stop an attack once it starts:

• Simple analgesics (paracetamol, NSAIDs)
• Triptans (sumatriptan, rizatriptan) — targeted migraine-specific agents
• Anti-emetics for nausea (metoclopramide)
• Short-acting opioids are usually avoided due to risk of medication-overuse headache

Preventive therapies reduce the frequency, severity and duration of attacks and are considered when headaches are frequent (≥4 attacks/month or chronic migraine) or disabling. Options include medications from different classes and newer targeted treatments:

• Beta blockers (propranolol, metoprolol)
• Antiepileptics (topiramate, valproate)
• Antidepressants (amitriptyline)
• OnabotulinumtoxinA (Botox) injections for chronic migraine
• CGRP monoclonal antibodies (erenumab, fremanezumab) — newer, targeted preventive biologics
• Peripheral nerve blocks and trigger point injections
• Non-invasive neuromodulation devices (TMS, electrical stimulation)

For clarity, the following table compares common preventive options in terms of benefits, typical side effects and approximate relative cost considerations you might find in Mohali:

Choosing the right preventive strategy is individualized. For chronic migraine, combinations of medication with non-drug strategies and procedures such as Botox or nerve blocks are common. Livasa Hospitals Mohali offers full-spectrum care — from first-line medications to advanced options — and will discuss expected outcomes, side effects and approximate costs during consultation.

Specialized chronic headache clinic services at Livasa Mohali

Livasa Hospitals Mohali has a dedicated neurology and neurosciences team that runs a specialised chronic headache clinic. The clinic brings together neurologists, pain specialists, physiotherapists, psychologists and nursing staff to deliver multidisciplinary care. Our services in Mohali include:

• Migraine assessment clinic: Detailed history, attack phenotyping, headache diary review and tailored treatment plans.
• Botox for chronic migraine: Administration by experienced neurologists following international protocols.
• CGRP therapies and injections: Guidance and administration where indicated.
• Nerve blocks & trigger-point injections: For refractory or localized headache syndromes.
• Pediatric migraine specialist: Age-appropriate evaluation and treatment for children and adolescents.
• Cluster headache management: Rapid-acting oxygen therapy protocols and specialist care.
• Emergency neurology: Assessment of sudden or severe neurological headaches in our acute services.

We emphasize shared decision-making, explaining alternatives and comparisons — for example, choosing between oral preventive drugs, Botox injections or CGRP biologics — and provide documentation of expected benefits and downsides. If you search for "best neurologist for migraines Punjab" or "migraine clinic Mohali", Livasa Mohali’s neurology team is equipped to perform evidence-based assessments and deliver personalized care.

For urgent evaluation of severe headaches, our emergency neurologist for severe headache Mohali can be contacted via the hospital emergency line, and for routine appointments you can call +91 80788 80788 or book online at Livasa Hospitals appointment.

What to do for chronic migraine: practical self-care and lifestyle changes

Long-term control of migraine often depends on a combination of medical treatment and sustained lifestyle changes. Patients visiting the Livasa Mohali chronic headache clinic are counselled on non-pharmacological approaches that complement medicines and may reduce the need for higher-cost interventions. These strategies are safe, evidence-based and particularly useful for patients searching for "migraine relief tips Mohali" or "lifestyle changes for migraine Mohali".

Practical measures include:

• Regular sleep schedule: Maintain consistent bedtimes and wake times; insufficient or irregular sleep is a common migraine trigger.
• Hydration and diet: Avoid fasting and dehydration; identify dietary triggers (e.g., aged cheese, nitrites, alcohol) via an elimination diary.
• Stress management: Techniques such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), mindfulness, relaxation and biofeedback show benefit for many patients.
• Regular exercise: Moderate aerobic activity 3–5 times weekly can reduce attack frequency.
• Avoid medication overuse: Frequent use of simple or combination analgesics can create rebound headaches; discuss acute treatment limits with your neurologist.
• Trigger identification: Use a structured headache diary to identify consistent triggers and patterns.

For workplace adjustments, our team also advises on graded return-to-work plans, reasonable accommodations, and ergonomics for patients in Mohali and nearby areas. These combined measures, paired with appropriate preventive therapy, frequently reduce the number of headache days and improve function.

Costs, appointments and what to expect in Mohali

Cost is an important concern when planning migraine care. Prices vary by test, medication, and whether treatments like Botox or CGRP injections are used. Below is an approximate comparison of typical costs you may encounter in Mohali. These are illustrative ranges; please contact Livasa Hospitals Mohali for precise quotes and package options. You may search terms such as "migraine treatment cost Mohali", "botox for migraine Mohali cost" and "migraine injections cost Mohali" when comparing options.

For a clear plan, you can call +91 80788 80788 to speak with our appointment desk, or book online at https://www.livasahospitals.com/appointment. Ask about bundled packages if you anticipate needing multiple visits or procedures — the team at Livasa Mohali will guide you through insurance and payment options.

When to see a neurologist and how to prepare for your visit in Mohali

Knowing when to consult a neurologist can reduce delays in care. You should make an appointment with a headache specialist or neurologist if you experience:

• Headaches that are frequent (more than 4 per month) or increasing in frequency.
• Daily or near-daily headaches, or pattern consistent with chronic migraine.
• Headaches that interfere with work, study or daily living despite over-the-counter medicines.
• Any new severe headache with neurological symptoms (vision changes, weakness, speech difficulty).
• Suspected medication-overuse headache — e.g., regular use of analgesics more than 2–3 times/week.

To get the most from your first visit at Livasa Mohali, prepare a short diary of your headaches for the last 4–8 weeks, listing dates, duration, severity (0–10), symptoms, medications used and suspected triggers. Bring previous imaging reports if available and a list of current medications. Be ready to discuss any family history of migraine, comorbidities (hypertension, anxiety and depression are commonly associated), and the impact on quality of life. This helps our neurologists tailor a diagnosis and treatment plan rapidly.

If you are searching "neurologist appointment Mohali" or "cost of neurologist consultation Mohali", Livasa Mohali’s neurology team offers streamlined appointment slots and teleconsultation options for follow-up care and medication review.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) and final advice

Q: How do I know whether my headache needs emergency care?
A: Seek emergency care for sudden severe headaches ("thunderclap"), new neurological deficits (weakness, loss of speech), fever with neck stiffness, or headache after trauma. For non-emergent but concerning patterns (increasing frequency, new aura features) book an urgent neurology consultation at Livasa Mohali.

Q: How long before preventive treatment works?
A: Many oral preventive medications show benefit within 6–12 weeks, while Botox injections are evaluated after two cycles (about six months). CGRP biologics may show responses within weeks for some patients. Your neurologist will discuss expected timelines and criteria for success.

Q: Is Botox safe for migraine?
A: Yes, Botox (onabotulinumtoxinA) has an established safety profile for chronic migraine when administered by trained specialists. Side effects are typically local and reversible. Livasa Mohali follows international injection protocols to maximise benefit and safety.

Q: Can children get migraines?
A: Yes. Pediatric migraine is common and often presents differently (shorter attacks, bilateral pain). Livasa Mohali offers a pediatric migraine specialist to deliver age-appropriate care and guidance for families.

Final advice: If you are in Mohali or the surrounding region and experiencing frequent or debilitating headaches, early specialist input improves outcomes. Livasa Hospitals Mohali offers comprehensive assessment, diagnostic tests such as MRI for headaches Mohali and EEG for chronic headaches Mohali, evidence-based medicines, Botox and advanced biologic therapies. To discuss your symptoms or book an appointment, please call +91 80788 80788 or book online: Livasa Hospitals appointment.