Headache Flashcards
1
Q
What are the red flag features of a headache?
A
First and worst headache - SAH Thunderclap headache - SAH Unilateral and eye pain Unilateral and ipsilateral symptoms Cough induced headache Persisting headache ± scalp tenderness in >50s - GCA Headache with fever/neck stiffness - Meningitis Change in pattern of usual headache Decreased level of consciousness
2
Q
What are some differentials for unilateral headaches with ipsilateral symptoms?
A
Migraine
Tumour
Vascular causes
3
Q
What are some differentials for unilateral headaches with eye pain?
A
Cluster headache
Glaucoma
4
Q
What other questions are key when taking a headache history?
A
Where have you been? - malaria
Are you pregnant - pre-eclampsia
5
Q
What are some differentials for headaches with no examination signs?
A
Tension headache Migraine Cluster headache Post-traumatic Drugs CO poisoning or anoxia Subarachnoid Haemorrhage
6
Q
What may cause a headache with signs of meningism?
A
Meningitis
Subarachnoid Haemorrhage
7
Q
What may cause a headache with decreased conscious level or localising signs?
A
Stroke Encephalitis/meningitis Cerebral abscess Subarachnoid haemorrhage Venous sinus occlusion Tumour Subdural haematoma TB meningitis
8
Q
What would a headache with papilloedema be indicative of?
A
Tumour Venous sinus occlusion Malignant hypertension Idiopathic intracranial hypertension Any prolonged CNS infection
9
Q
Give some other causes for headache
A
Giant cell arteritis Acute glaucoma Vertebral artery dissection Cervical spondylosis Sinusitis Pagets disease Altitude sickness
