Headache Flashcards
What are the three main types of primary headaches
-Migraine
-Tension type headaches
-Cluster headaches
what is the medical name for cluster headaches
Trigeminal autonomic cephalalgia
which two of the three primary headache disorders are known to be long lasting (>4 hours).
Migraine and Tension type headaches
what are the 4 key red flags suggesting secondary headache?
AGE- New onset or different headaches in a person >50 yrs old.
ONSET- Sudden abrupt onset of a severe headache (thunderclap)
SYSTEMIC SYMPTOMS- Fever, neck stiffness, rash, weight loss
NEUROLOGICAL SIGNS- Confusion, impaired consciousness, focal neurology, swollen optic discs
What are some characteristics of migraines, 3 or more.
-Unilateral location
-Pulsating quality
-Moderate or severe pain
-Aggravated by routine physical activity
-Lasts hours sometimes days
what is photophobia and phonophobia, what are they usually symptoms of.
Photophobia- light sensitivity
Phonophobia- sound sensitivity
indicative of migraines.
in people with migraines what might develop gradually before the headache.
AURAS (complex visual disturbance)
What are the 3 phases of migraines before resolution and recovery.
Premonitory: yawning, polyuria, mood change, irritable, light sensitive, neck pain
Aura: Visual, sensory, weakness, speech arrest
Headache: head and body pain, nausea, photophobia
how can migraines be managed acutely.
-Paracetamol
-NSAIDs
-Prokinetics
-Triptans
Are tension type headaches aggravated by movement?
No
Describe the laterality of tension headaches.
Bilateral pain
Describe the laterality of cluster headaches.
Unilateral pain
What are the acute treatments for cluster headaches.
Triptan- nasal or subcutaneous route.
High flow oxygen- Oxygen inhibits neuronal activation in the trigeminocervical complex.
What are preventative treatments for cluster headaches.
Verapamil- (calcium channel inhibitor)
Greater occipital nerve block (after ECG)
