Headache Medicine

Approximately 1 in 6 adults experience migraines, affecting 12-15% of the global population. In the U.S., nearly 39 million people suffer from migraines, with a higher prevalence among women. At GEM Neurology, PLLC in Clinton, Tennessee, board-certified neurologist Dr. Luis E Zayas has a clinical interest and extensive experience in managing chronic headaches and migraines. Dr. Zayas provides personalized headache care for patients 14 and older, helping alleviate persistent pain and enhance quality of life.

Take control of your headaches with expert neurological care. Call GEM Neurology today to schedule an evaluation, or visit our FAQ section to learn more. A referral from your primary care provider is required. Dr. Zayas will carefully review each case, determine if he can help, and create the most appropriate treatment plan for your care. 

Expert Headache Medicine with Dr. Luis Zayas in Clinton, TN

Headaches and migraines can significantly impact daily life, but expert care can provide relief. At GEM Neurology, Dr. Luis E. Zayas offers advanced treatments to address persistent or severe headache and migraine symptoms. What sets Dr. Zayas apart is his dual expertise as both a board-certified neurologist and internist, as well as his extensive training in life-threatening neurological conditions through neurocritical care and physical therapy background. This unique background enables him to diagnose and treat complex headache disorders, including those related to brain bleeds post-hospital discharge. 

What Is Headache Medicine?

Headache medicine is a specialized branch of neurology focused on diagnosing and treating various headache disorders, from migraines to cluster headaches. At GEM Neurology, Dr. Z goes beyond symptom management by identifying the underlying causes of headaches and tailoring treatments to deliver lasting relief.

Why Choose Dr. Luis Zayas for Headache Medicine?

Dr. Zayas offers a unique combination of skills and experience that make him a leading specialist in headache medicine:

• Board-certified neurologist and internist, offering a comprehensive medical perspective.
• Fellowship-trained in neurocritical care, with expertise in managing life-threatening neurological conditions, including brain bleeds that can cause severe headaches.
• Former physical therapist 
• Over 10 years of experience diagnosing and treating headache disorders with advanced, evidence-based techniques.

This expertise allows Dr. Zayas to provide holistic, customized care for even the most complex headache conditions.

Which Conditions Can Headache Medicine Treat?

Dr. Zayas treats a wide range of headache disorders, including:

• Migraines – Severe, often one-sided head pain with nausea, vomiting, and light sensitivity.

• Trigeminal Neuralgia – Sudden, stabbing facial pain from trigeminal nerve irritation.

• Occipital Neuralgia – Shooting or throbbing pain from occipital nerves at the base of the skull.

• Cluster Headaches – Extremely painful, cyclical headaches, often the most severe type.

• Tension Headaches – Dull, pressure-like pain commonly linked to stress or muscle tension.

• Hemicrania Continua – Continuous, one-sided headache that responds to indomethacin.

What Are the Risk Factors for Headaches and Migraines?

Several factors can increase the likelihood of headaches or migraines, including:

• Diet: Skipping meals, dehydration, or consuming trigger foods (caffeine, alcohol, processed foods).
• Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or menopause.
• Stress: Emotional or physical stress is a common headache trigger.
• Sleep Issues: Poor sleep patterns or sleep disorders.
• Medication Overuse: Overuse of pain relief medications can lead to rebound headaches.
• Family History: Genetics can play a role in the likelihood of developing migraines or headaches.

Which Headache Treatment Plan Is Right for Me?

At GEM Neurology, Dr. Zayas takes a personalized approach to headache treatment. He begins with a thorough evaluation, which includes:

• Symptom and Medical History Review: Understanding triggers, patterns, and prior treatments.
• Physical and Neurological Exams: Identifying potential underlying issues.
• Diagnostic Testing: Blood work or imaging studies may be ordered to rule out secondary causes when indicated. 

Based on this evaluation, Dr. Z develops a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

What Does Headache Treatment Include?

Dr. Zayas uses a range of treatments to address headache and migraine symptoms effectively. These may include:

• Botox Injections for Chronic Migraine – FDA-approved for patients with headaches on 15+ days per month.

• Occipital Nerve Blocks – Targeted injections to reduce pain from occipital neuralgia and chronic migraine.

• Trigger Point Injections – For muscle-related headache pain and tension relief.

• Medications – Acute and preventive therapies tailored to each patient.

• Lifestyle Changes – Stress management, sleep optimization, and healthy dietary habits.

• Dietary Supplements – Evidence-based options to reduce headache frequency or severity.

• Relaxation Techniques – Mindfulness, meditation, and biofeedback to control stress-related headaches.

• Physical Therapy – Exercises to improve posture and decrease tension contributing to headaches.

Dr. Zayas ensures ongoing follow-ups to optimize your treatment plan and deliver long-lasting relief.

Schedule Your Headache Medicine Consultation at GEM Neurology

Don’t let headaches or migraines control your life. With advanced care from Dr. Luis E. Zayas, relief is within reach. Located in Clinton, TN, GEM Neurology serves patients across East Tennessee with expert, compassionate care.

📞 Call us today to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward headache relief.

Click here to print and complete the new patient questionnaire, and bring it with you to your first headache appointment.