Get the pattern right
A headache diary can record frequency, duration, location, associated symptoms and medicines used. A clinician can assess whether the pattern is tension-type headache, migraine or something else. This matters because research findings and standard treatments differ. A sudden severe or otherwise concerning change belongs in medical care rather than a routine complementary appointment.
Discuss prevention, not just one visit
NCCIH summarizes evidence that acupuncture may reduce tension-headache frequency. That is a population finding, not a guarantee that one session will stop an active headache. Ask the practitioner what the proposed goal and review period are, how appointments would sit alongside prescribed preventive or acute treatment and how you would track headache days.
Keep the record honest
Write down medication and sleep changes during the same period, and report side effects. A reviewer saying their headache resolved can help you ask about the patient experience, but cannot establish effectiveness in your own case. Compare both likely benefit and total cost before committing to repeated visits.
Questions and answers
Should I stop headache medicine if I try acupuncture?
No. Discuss any change with the clinician who manages your headaches. A headache diary can distinguish fewer headache days from a single unusually good day and helps your clinician reassess the plan.