Severe headaches, shakiness and feeling of passing out: Causes?

Dear Ask The Doctor: Hi, I suffer from severe headaches. I have been to see my GP recently as i know started to feel funny when i get these headaches. I start to feel shaky, i sweat, feel like i am going to pass out. After the attack i feel very drained and have a very bad headache. the GP has tested my sugar and thyriod, all is normal. Lately my severe headaches wake me up at night, and no medicane i takes helps. Should i be worried?

Dear Karen: You may be suffering from migraines. This is usually due to severe dilation of the arteries of the head leading to increased bloos supply to the brain and thus the headaches. However have said this you may also want to just get a screening EEG done to see the function of the brain.For migraine you can adopt certain lifestyle changes like avoid eating chocolates , citrus stuff, avoid sleep depreviation, flashing lights,glare etc. all of which can precipitate an attack. Normal NSAIFS like tylenol and advil help in dereasing the pain. However if you are getting more severe headaches you may need medication like triptans. Please consult your family physician regarding the same.All the best.