emDocs - Nov 20, 2017 - Author: Long B - Edited by: Koyfman A
"Key Points:
- Headache is divided into benign, primary causes and dangerous, secondary etiologies. Focused history and examination are recommended.
- Benign headaches include migraine, tension, cluster, and several others, but a specific diagnosis is not required in the ED.
- Management should also focus on symptom treatment for pain and nausea.
- A combination of medications is advised.
- Antidopaminergics have the strongest literature support. These should be used with NSAIDs and/or acetaminophen.
- Steroids likely decrease headache recurrence.
- Other treatments include ketamine, propofol, and nerve blocks. These are options for refractory headaches to other treatments."