Common Neuro OSCE Condition Symptoms

Question 1

HEADACHE: Migraine symptoms:

Answer 1

Progressive Onset

During an attack:

• (Unilateral) Headache (THROBBING)
• Nausea
• Photophobia
• Phonophobia
• Functional disability

In between attacks:
- Anticipatory anxiety

• Enduring predisposition to future attacks

Question 2

HEADACHE: Tension type headache symptoms:

Answer 2

• Mild
• Bilateral
• Pressing/ tightening in quality (“TIGHT BAND”)
• No significant associated features
• NOT aggravated by routine physical activity
• (Scalp tenderness)
• (Occurs towards the end of the day)

(recurrent)

Question 3

HEADACHE: Cluster headache symptoms:

Answer 3

RAPID ONSET of pain

• Unilateral SHARP THROBBING pain in the orbital and temporal area. This pain is excruciatingly severe
• Patients are restless and agitated during an attack

(- Eyes may become watery, bloodshot, lacrimation, etc. BASICALLY, ASK ABOUT ANY CHANGES TO THE EYE)

Also may be associated with migraine symptoms

RAPID CESSATION of pain