The lifetime risk of headache in the population is greater than 90% in European populations. Headache (although often mild and self-limiting) thus represents the most common neurological complaint presenting to primary care physicians as well as neurologists. The ability to recognise and manage headache is necessary for all physicians. The second International Classification of Headache Disorders was published in 2004; although useful as a framework for research, this classification needs simplification for everyday practice. In general, most patients will have a primary (or idiopathic) headache syndrome (e.g. migraine, tension type, or cluster headache), but many patients (and doctors) are concerned about missing a sinister secondary headache.
