Secondary Cough Headache
Secondary cough headache is a rare type of headache that occurs due to coughing or straining during physical exercise. It affects both men and women and occurs in all age groups. The pain usually starts suddenly and is usually felt at the back of the head. The pain is intense and throbbing and usually lasts for a few seconds to minutes. It usually goes away on its own but can last for a few hours. The cause of secondary cough headache is not fully understood, but it may be related to the pressure changes in the spinal fluid that surrounds the brain. Treatment is usually not required, but in some cases, medication may be necessary to control the symptoms. If you experience cough headaches, it is important to consult a healthcare provider to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Symptoms of Secondary Cough Headache
What are the common symptoms of Secondary Cough Headache?
The common symptoms of Secondary Cough Headache include a sudden, severe headache that begins after coughing, sneezing or laughing, pain that usually affects both sides of the head, pain that lasts for several minutes to several hours, pain that increases with any physical activity, and sensitivity to light (photophobia) and noise (phonophobia). (Source: Mayo Clinic)
What medical conditions can cause Secondary Cough Headache?
Medical conditions that can cause Secondary Cough Headache include Chiari malformation, a brain disorder that causes cerebellar tonsils to protrude into the spinal canal, sinusitis or infection of the sinuses, anemia, high blood pressure, brain hemorrhage, brain tumor, or arteriovenous malformations, a condition where blood vessels in the brain are abnormally formed. (Source: Healthline)
Can a person with a history of migraines experience Secondary Cough Headache?
Yes, a person with a history of migraines can experience Secondary Cough Headache. However, the symptoms of Secondary Cough Headache are different from those of migraines. (Source: Cleveland Clinic)
Does age or gender affect the likelihood of developing Secondary Cough Headache?
Age and gender do not significantly affect the likelihood of developing Secondary Cough Headache. However, it is more common in people over 40 years of age. There also appears to be a slightly higher incidence in women. (Source: MedicineNet)
What are some lifestyle factors that may trigger Secondary Cough Headache?
Lifestyle factors that may trigger Secondary Cough Headache include smoking, obesity, lack of physical activity, and poor diet. Stress and lack of sleep can also contribute to the development of Secondary Cough Headache. (Source: Migraine.com)
Diagnosis of Secondary Cough Headache
What tests are commonly used to diagnose Secondary Cough Headache?
Secondary Cough Headache is typically diagnosed through a combination of patient history, physical examination, and imaging studies. Lumbar puncture may also be performed to rule out underlying conditions such as meningitis or other intracranial pathologies. 2. Differential diagnosis is done to differentiate Secondary Cough Headache from other types of headaches, with a particular emphasis on ruling out conditions such as meningitis, subarachnoid hemorrhage, or brain tumors. Typically, examination of the cerebrospinal fluid along with imaging studies is required to rule out these conditions effectively. 3. In general, imaging studies such as CT or MRI are recommended for patients with new-onset secondary headache or if any unusual features are observed, such as abnormal neurological exam or changes in consciousness. 4. No specific laboratory tests are used to diagnose Secondary Cough Headache. However, lumbar puncture may be done, and cerebrospinal fluid analysis may reveal abnormalities that suggest an underlying condition. 5. Generally, a patient`s description of their symptoms can provide helpful information, but a diagnosis of Secondary Cough Headache requires physical examination, imaging studies, and lumbar puncture to exclude other possible causes of headaches thoroughly.
How can a doctor differentiate Secondary Cough Headache from other types of headaches?
Sources: 1. https://www.aafp.org/afp/2002/0401/p1419.html 2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3943808/ 3. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Cough-Headache-Information-Page
Is imaging usually necessary to diagnose Secondary Cough Headache?
Are there any specific laboratory tests used in diagnosing Secondary Cough Headache?
Can a patient`s description of their symptoms alone be enough to diagnose Secondary Cough Headache?
Treatments of Secondary Cough Headache
What are the primary drugs for managing secondary cough headaches?
The primary drugs for managing secondary cough headaches include indomethacin, gabapentin, and topiramate. Indomethacin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is highly effective in managing secondary cough headaches. Gabapentin and topiramate are anticonvulsant drugs that have been found to be useful in preventing the recurrence of secondary cough headaches. However, the use of these drugs will depend on the underlying cause of the secondary cough headache.
Can non-pharmacologic interventions help in treating secondary cough headaches?
Non-pharmacologic intervention can help in treating secondary cough headaches. For instance, patients with secondary cough headaches should reduce their intake of caffeine and avoid taking stimulants such as amphetamines, nicotine, and cocaine. Additionally, patients should avoid participating in activities that can provoke headaches. These activities include heavy lifting or straining, sneezing, laughing, or coughing. Appropriate lifestyle changes such as reducing stress, getting adequate sleep, and practicing relaxation techniques such as yoga can also help reduce the frequency and severity of secondary cough headaches.
How does oxygen therapy relieve secondary cough headaches?
Oxygen therapy is believed to relieve secondary cough headaches by increasing arterial oxygen tension, which helps to reduce the dilation of intracranial vessels. This, in turn, reduces the pressure on the meninges and relieves the headache. According to research, oxygen therapy is effective in reducing the duration and severity of secondary cough headaches.
Is surgery a viable option in the management of secondary cough headaches?
Surgery is not a viable option for the management of secondary cough headaches. In most cases, secondary cough headaches are caused by an underlying medical condition such as a Chiari malformation, which can be effectively managed using medication and other non-invasive interventions. Surgical interventions are only considered in severe cases where there is compression of the cerebellum or brainstem.
Which specialists are best equipped for the management and treatment of secondary cough headaches?
The management and treatment of secondary cough headaches are best handled by multiple specialists working together. These specialists include neurologists, headache specialists, primary care physicians, and neurosurgeons. Collaboration between these specialists is essential in determining the underlying cause of the secondary cough headache and developing the most appropriate treatment plan for each patient. Based on the underlying cause, the patient may be referred to a specific specialist for further management, such as a neurosurgeon for Chiari malformations or a pulmonologist for respiratory disorders.
Prognosis of Secondary Cough Headache
What is the typical outcome for individuals with a secondary cough headache?
The typical outcome for individuals with a secondary cough headache depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, the headache may resolve on its own once the underlying condition is treated. However, in other cases, the headache may persist and require ongoing management.
Can a secondary cough headache lead to any long-term health complications?
While it is rare, a secondary cough headache can lead to long-term health complications, depending on the underlying cause. For example, in cases where the headache is caused by a brain tumor, the tumor may need to be surgically removed, which can come with risks and potential side effects.
Is the prognosis of secondary cough headache affected by the underlying condition causing it?
The prognosis of secondary cough headache is often influenced by the underlying condition causing it. If the underlying condition is easily treatable and resolves quickly, the headache may also go away quickly. However, if the underlying condition is more chronic or difficult to manage, the headache may persist or recur over time.
Is it common for individuals with a secondary cough headache to experience recurrence of symptoms?
Recurrence of symptoms is relatively common among individuals with a secondary cough headache, especially if the underlying condition is not fully resolved. Even after successful treatment, some patients may experience occasional headaches or flares of symptoms.
What factors may impact the prognosis of secondary cough headache?
Several factors may impact the prognosis of secondary cough headache, including the severity of the underlying condition, the age and general health of the patient, and the type of treatment received. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as stress, diet, and exercise may also play a role in the development and prognosis of secondary cough headache.
Prevention of Secondary Cough Headache
What steps can be taken to prevent Secondary Cough Headache?
Preventative measures for Secondary Cough Headache include addressing any underlying health conditions such as high blood pressure, taking medications as prescribed, and avoiding triggers such as excessive coughing, bending over, or straining during bowel movements. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise and a balanced diet can help prevent the development of Secondary Cough Headache.
Are there any preventative medications for Secondary Cough Headache?
While there are no specific medications for preventing Secondary Cough Headache, medications prescribed for underlying health conditions such as high blood pressure or migraines can help prevent the occurrence of Secondary Cough Headache.
Can lifestyle changes reduce the likelihood of experiencing Secondary Cough Headache?
Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, getting adequate sleep, and minimizing stress can help reduce the likelihood of experiencing Secondary Cough Headache. Engaging in regular exercise and avoiding triggers such as excessive coughing or bending over can also be helpful in preventing Secondary Cough Headache.
Is there an exercise regimen that can help prevent Secondary Cough Headache?
While there is no specific exercise regimen that can prevent Secondary Cough Headache, engaging in regular physical activity can help improve overall health and reduce the likelihood of experiencing Secondary Cough Headache. It is important to avoid overexertion and to listen to your body to prevent triggering a headache.
What role, if any, does hydration play in preventing Secondary Cough Headache?
Adequate hydration is important in preventing Secondary Cough Headache as dehydration can exacerbate headaches. It is recommended to drink at least 8 cups of water per day and to avoid excessive consumption of caffeinated or alcoholic beverages which can lead to dehydration. Drinking fluids before and after exercise or periods of excessive coughing can also help prevent dehydration and the development of Secondary Cough Headache.