Post-Traumatic Headaches

What is a traumatic brain injury?

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a type of brain damage that occurs as a result of an injury to the head. This type of injury may be non-penetrative, such as a blow to the head, or penetrative, such as a gunshot wound. The severity of a TBI depends on various factors, and the lasting effects can range from a few days to permanent brain damage or, in severe cases, death. A concussion is the most common type of traumatic brain injury.

What is a post-traumatic headache?

A headache is one of the most common symptoms following a traumatic brain injury. A post-traumatic headache is a headache that occurs within seven days of a TBI, or after regaining consciousness. The headache may be the result of the blood vessels that deliver blood to the brain becoming narrow. Muscle tension that transpires during or following a TBI may also cause post-traumatic headaches.

Symptoms

Post-traumatic headache symptoms are similar to that of a tension headache or migraine. The pain may be mild, moderate or severe. Other symptoms associated with post-traumatic headaches may include the following:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Sensitivity to light or sound
• Dizziness
• Memory issues
• Insomnia
• Difficulty concentrating
• Pulsing head pain
• Mood or personality changes

Post-traumatic headaches may be constant or intermittent. If they last more than three months after a head injury, they are known as chronic or persistent post-traumatic headaches.

Risk factors

Individuals who experienced headaches or migraines prior to a traumatic brain injury are more likely to experience post-traumatic headaches. A family history of headaches or migraines also increases the risk of developing post-traumatic headaches.

Treatment

Treatments for post-traumatic headaches may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Medications, such as anti-inflammatory or pain medications
• Physical therapy
• Relaxation therapy
• Nerve stimulation
• Occupational therapy
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

Prevention

If a head injury or whiplash occurs, speak with a medical professional as soon as possible in order to begin treatment before post-traumatic headaches begin. Certain prescription medications can also help prevent post-traumatic headaches. They may include the following:

• Antidepressants
• Anti-seizure medicine
• Blood pressure medication

Outlook

For the majority of people who experience post-traumatic headaches, the condition resolves on its own within the weeks following a head injury. However, a health care professional should be consulted to rule out more serious conditions and to obtain appropriate treatment methods

Additional source: Medical News Today