Headache Flashcards
What is a primary headache?
a headache not caused by any other disease or condition
What is a secondary headache?
headache caused by an associated disease or trauma
resolves when underlying cause is successfully treated
There are no pain receptors in the _____________.
brain tissue itself
What are examples of primary headache?
migraine with aura
migraine without aura
tension type headache
What is a migraine?
persistent, unilateral pain in the head
What are the criteria for migraines?
A. At least 5 attacks fulfilling B-D
B. Headache attacks lasting 4-72 hours
C. At least two of the following characteristics:
-unilateral location
-pulsating quality
- moderate or severe pain intensity
- aggravated by routine physical activity
D. during headache on of the following:
-nausea and/or vomiting
-photophobia and/or phonophobia
New onset of migraine after age _______ is a red flag.
50
What are the characteristics of a migraine without an aura?
dull throbbing
lasts 4-72 hours
photophobia
aggravated by routine physical activity
stiff neck
blurred vision
______________ may also accompany aura.
Paresthesia in hands and face
What would dizziness and vertigo indicate?
brainstem involvement or
change in blood flow around vestibular structures
What are potential triggers for migraines?
sleep disturbances
caffeine and alcohol
stress
inadequate water intake
What is commonly taken on onset of migraine?
abortives
triptans
NSAIDs
Acetaminophen
Caffeine
OTC migraine meds
How do triptans work?
act on the serotonin receptor agonist
can cause rebound headache
What are the side effects of triptans?
dizziness
fatigue
nausea
When is a preventative indicated for pts with migraines?
> 2 migraines per month
typically last 48 hours or more
severity/frequency that critically impacts pt’s daily life
abortive therapies are contraindicated, ineffective, overused, not tolerated
____________ appear to be the most common type of primary HA.
Tension type headaches
How is pain described with tension type headaches?
dull (not throbbing)
mild to moderate
no nausea is present
What is pharmacological treatment for TTH?
NSAIDS
limit to 2-3 times per week due to high risk of rebound headache
What is the most common secondary headache?
cervicogenic
Cervicogenic headaches do not have dysfunction in _____________.
Oculomotor control
What is the hallmark of cervicogenic headaches?
Csp ROM is reduced and HA is made significantly worse by provocative maneuvers
What levels do cervicogenic headaches originate from?
C1-3
What are impairments that may cause cervicogenic headaches?
whiplash injuries
intervertebral disc disease
facet joint arthritis
What are other symptoms of cervicogenic headaches?
dizziness
nausea
lightheadedness
inability to concentrate
visual disturbances
