Headache
from EM Clerkship Hosted by Zack Olson, MD and Michael Estephan, MD
With this complaint, it’s ALL about doing a good history and exam. Step 1: Write Out Your Differential Diagnosis * The KING* Subarachnoid hemorrhage* The QUEEN* Meningitis* 3 Killers in the BRAIN* Stroke* Hematomas* Elevated ICP/Tumors* 3 Killers in the VESSELS* Arterial dissection* Brain DVT (Dural Venous Sinus Thrombosis)* Giant cell/temporal arteritis* 3 MISCELLANEOUS killers* Preeclampsia* Carbon monoxide toxicity* Glaucoma Step 2: How Does This Compare to Previous Headaches? * Finding the answer to this question is not always easy! Step 3: Do a FULL Neuro Exam * Mental status* Neck stiffness* Extra-ocular movements* Visual fields* Cranial nerves* Speech* Motor* Sensation* Finger to Nose* Gait Step 4: Order Tests As Necessary * CT head without contrast* MRI brain* Lumbar puncture* ESR* Carbon monoxide level Step 5: Give “Headache Cocktail” * Mix and match based on personal and patient preferences* IV Dopamine antagonist* IV Antihistamine* IV Steroid* IV NSAIDS* IV Fluids* Tylenol* Triptans and opiates rarely indicated Additional Reading * Round 7 – Headache (EM Clerkship)* Round 11 – Headache (EM Clerkship)* Approach to Headache (SAEM)
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