Approach to Headache/Meningitis/Encephalitis Flashcards
Primary headache disorders are ____ headache disorders
Benign
Secondary headache disorders are headaches that?
Are a sign of a pathologic disease
It is worrisome if the onset of a headache is after 50 yo, if accompanied with a fever, or if there are neurological symptoms?
YES - worrisome
When the brain is insulted, what are its 3 possible responses?
- Bleed
- Swell
- Seize
Any patient with a worrisome headache history or abnormal examination needs what 3 things?
- Imaging
- Lumbar puncture
- Arteriogram
Is it possible for CT scans to miss subarachnoid hemorrhages?
Yes - need a lumbar puncture to see it
What are the 5 Primary Headache Disorders?
- Common Migraine
- Classic Migraine
- Chronic Migraine
- Tension-type Headache
- Cluster Headache
A Common Migraine is lacking what that is present with a Classic Migraine?
Classic Migraine - has aura!
With Migraines, is the pain usually unilateral or bilateral and what types of behavior are common?
- Unilateral
- - Patient may retreat to dark and quiet room
Is there aura present with Common Migraines?
NO
- present with Classic Migraines
What is Aura and how long does it usually last?
- Lasts 15-30 mins
= Anything neurologic, usually visual symptoms, that precedes migraine
– Seen with Classic MIgraines
What defines a Chronic Migraine?
- Headache > 15 days per month
- Headache lasts > 4 hours
- Period of time > 3 months
With Migraines, do they usually prohibit normal daily activities?
YES
Do Tension-Type Headaches prohibit daily activities?
NO
Where is the common location of Tension-Type Headaches?
Bifrontal or Bioccipital
Migraines are sharp and throbbing pain. How are Tension-Type Headaches felt?
Dull, aching and squeezing pressure
Migraines and Headaches are usually experienced more commonly in females. In males, what is the most common type?
Cluster Headaches
What are Cluster Headaches associated with?
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Describe the pain and location of Cluster Headaches
- 100% Unilateral
= Severe excruciating pain
What is unique behavior that is seen with Cluster Headaches?
Frenetic, pacing and rocking
There are many different treatments for Migraines. What class of drugs is commonly used and what is its MOA?
-Triptans = 5HT1 Agonists
What are a few contraindications to Triptan usage for Migraines?
- Ischemic heart disease
- Any vascular disease
- Uncontrolled HTN
What are a few classes of medications that can be used as PREVENTATIVE medicine for a Migraine?
- Antidepressants
- Beta blockers
- Calcium channel blockers
- Anticonvulsants
With CHRONIC Migraines, what is the best PREVENTATIVE treatment?
BOTOX injections for at least close to a year