Headache is one of the most common symptoms in clinical practice, and tends to be more frequent during the winter. Shorter days, sudden cold, temperature changes between indoors and outdoors, increased nasal congestion, and muscle tension due to cold weather can all contribute to the worsening of the condition.

Despite this, it’s important to remember that headache is a symptom, not a separate disease. Its origins can be very diverse, and no treatment can truly work without correctly identifying the cause.

For this reason, the most appropriate starting point is a neurological examination: the neurologist evaluates the initial clinical picture, distinguishes the different types of headache, and, if necessary, refers the patient to other specialists who can help understand the problem.

When the headache originates from the paranasal sinuses

In winter, the respiratory system is more exposed to congestion, infections, and temperature changes. Therefore, it is not uncommon for pain localized on the forehead or behind the eyes, accompanied by a feeling of pressure and worsening when bending over, to be linked to sinusitis or a persistent congestion.

In these cases, once the condition has been assessed, the neurologist may request an ENT evaluation to check for inflammation or structural abnormalities.

At the Minihospital, the ENT specialists are: Dr. Joel Reuben Abel, Dr. Jacopo Matteucci, Dr. Fabio Matteucci.

When the headache comes from the neck

Cold weather often leads to stiff neck and shoulders; at the same time, during the colder months, people spend more time indoors and on the computer. The result is muscle tension that can cause pain that starts in the neck and rises toward the head.

A neurologist, by evaluating the characteristics of the pain, can identify a possible cervicogenic headache and refer the patient for a physical therapy evaluation.

At Minihospital, you can count on Jennifer Pratelli and Romina Vargiu, who specialize in the management of cervical dysfunction and the correction of postural alterations.

When the headache originates from the jaw

In the coldest months, jaw tension also tends to increase: the cold promotes involuntary jaw clenching, the stress of the holidays adds to nighttime habits, and the temporomandibular joint can become overloaded.

The result is localized pain in the temples, sometimes accompanied by clicking, difficulty opening the mouth, clenching, or bruxism. In this case, too, the neurologist will assess whether the condition may be related to TMJ and, if necessary, recommend a gnathological consultation.

When it comes to a true primary headache

Some headaches are directly linked to the central nervous system: these are primary headaches, such as migraines and tension headaches. Winter, with its changes in routine and climate variations, can aggravate them or make them more frequent.

They are recognized by characteristics such as throbbing pain, recurrence, sensitivity to light and noise, and sometimes nausea. In these cases, a neurological examination is not only useful, but also essential to define the type of headache and establish a personalized treatment.

At the Minihospital, the neurology specialists are Dr. Maria Paola Virgili, Dr. Roberto Sposito, Dr. Lorenzo Fontanelli.

The Minihospital approach: an integrated vision

The complexity of headaches requires a broad perspective. Sinus pain isn’t treated like a primary headache; neck pain isn’t resolved like a jaw disorder. This is why a comprehensive approach in which each clinical professional intervenes at the right time is essential.

At Minihospital, patients don’t have to choose a specialist alone: ​​the neurologist guides the process, involving an ENT specialist, physiotherapist, or gnathologist when appropriate.

This approach allows us to:

• avoid partial interpretations of the symptom
• facilitate the exchange of information between specialists
• reduce the time between diagnosis and treatment
• establish truly personalized treatment plans

The result is a comprehensive care and a clear path, tailored to each patient’s characteristics.

When is a visit advisable?

A headache deserves evaluation when it becomes more frequent, when it takes on new characteristics, when it interferes with sleep or daily life, or when regular medications no longer work as well as before.

It’s also important to investigate further when the pain suddenly appears very intense or when it’s associated with other symptoms, such as visual disturbances, dizziness, weakness, or tingling.
In all these situations, clinical evaluation allows us to distinguish the more common forms from those requiring attention, and to establish a more effective treatment plan.

Conclusions

A headache isn’t always just a headache. It’s a symptom that can have multiple causes, and the correct treatment depends on the ability to accurately identify them.

During the winter, when these symptoms are more common, a multidisciplinary approach becomes even more important.

Minihospital offers patients a place where different expertise collaborates to understand the origin of the pain and develop a clear, integrated, and personalized treatment plan.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact us.