Headache & Migraine Flashcards
How are headaches caused?
When the head/neck muscles or blood vessels contract, resulting in decreased blood flow.
What is a tension headache?
The most common type of headache.
Usually a dull aching pain in the forehead, temples or back of the neck.
‘A tight band around their head’
Causes: Stress, anxiety, bad posture, tiredness and eye strain.
What is a sinus headache?
Caused by a build up of pressure in the sinuses, often during or after a cold.
Pain is worse in the morning.
Green or yellow coloured mucus.
What is a cluster headache?
Cause severe pain on one side of the head, usually around one eye or the temple.
They can suddenly occur without warning.
Onset is usually too rapid for OTC painkillers to be effective.
What is a hangover headache?
Caused by dehydration from alcohol.
What is a migraine?
Is a severe headache often associated with symptoms such as N&V, visual disturbances and increased sensitivity to light.
Classic Migraine - Headache includes symptoms of aura e.g. flashing lights, zig zag patterns and blind spots. It can also include stiffness or tingling sensations.
Common Migraine - When the headache does not include aura.
When to refer a migraine?
Sudden cluster headaches
Headaches following head injury
Headaches with slurred speech or confusion
Headaches in children with a rash or stiffness
Migraine Triggers?
Food & Drink - Cheese, chocolate and red wine.
Changes in Routine - Tiredness, over eating, too much exercise
Hormonal - Period, menopause, pregnancy.
Emotional - Anxiety, excitement, shock, depression.
Medication - Contraceptives, HRT
Migraine Treatment Options?
Painkillers:
Paracetamol
Ibuprofen
Aspirin
What is Ibuprofen Lysine?
e.g. Nurofen Express
Is a form of Ibuprofen that is absorbed quickly, so the pain is relieved more rapidly.
What treatment can be given to a patient with a sinus headache?
Paracetamol with a decongestant e.g. pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine.
e.g. Vicks Sinex Decongestant Capsules OR Otrivine Nasal Drops
What in addition to painkillers can be given to a patient suffering from a migraine and N&V?
Migraleve Tablets - Paracetamol, codeine and buclizine
Two Migraleve Pink tablets to be swallowed immediately it is known that a migraine attack has started or is imminent. If further treatment is required, two Migraleve Yellow tablets every 4 hours.
Maximum dose: 8 tablets (two Migraleve Pink and six Migraleve Yellow) in 24 hours.
When can sumatriptan be given to patients with a migraine?
It increases the level of serotonin in the brain.
It is suitable for customers aged 18-65 with a diagnosed and stable pattern of migraine, that has not been resolved by other painkillers.
Self Care Tips for Migraines?
Regular exercise and relaxation can help prevent stress related headaches
Take regular breaks when using a computer or sitting in one position for long periods of time
Keeping a diary to help determine patterns or triggers for these headaches
