Post-Traumatic Headache - Symptoms & Causes

What is a post-traumatic headache?

A post-traumatic headache is a type of headache that occurs after a head injury, which can range from mild to severe trauma.

These headaches can manifest immediately following the injury or develop days to weeks later. Post-traumatic headaches are a common consequence of head injuries, including concussions, and can significantly affect the quality of life if not managed properly.

Types of post-traumatic headaches

Post-traumatic headaches can be classified based on their characteristics and underlying mechanisms:

• Acute post-traumatic headache: Occurs within seven days of the head injury or regaining consciousness and typically resolves within three months.
• Chronic post-traumatic headache: Persists for more than three months after the injury and may continue for years.
• Migraine-like post-traumatic headache: Characterised by throbbing pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound, resembling a migraine.
• Tension-type post-traumatic headache: Presented as a dull, aching pain, often with a sensation of tightness or pressure around the forehead or back of the head and neck.

What are the symptoms of a post-traumatic headache?

Symptoms of post-traumatic headache can vary widely but commonly include:

• Persistent or intermittent head pain
• Throbbing or pulsating pain, similar to migraines
• Dull, aching pain, typical of tension-type headaches
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia) and sound (phonophobia)
• Dizziness or vertigo
• Fatigue and irritability
• Difficulty concentrating and memory problems
• Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep

When to seek medical attention?

You should seek medical attention if:

• You experience a new headache following a head injury
• The headache persists or worsens over time
• Over-the-counter medications do not relieve the headache
• The headache is accompanied by symptoms such as confusion, memory loss, or difficulty concentrating
• You experience visual disturbances, dizziness, or balance problems

When to visit an urgent care centre?

Visit an urgent care centre if:

• You experience a head injury resulting in loss of consciousness, confusion, slurred speech, vomiting, or seizures
• You have a sudden, severe headache that is different from your usual headaches
• The headache is accompanied by neurological symptoms such as weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking
• You experience a high fever, stiff neck, confusion, or seizures
• You have repeated vomiting or lose consciousness

What causes a post-traumatic headache?

Post-traumatic headaches are caused by head injuries that can result from various incidents, including:

• Falls
• Motor vehicle accidents
• Sports injuries
• Physical assaults
• Explosive blasts (common in military personnel)

The exact mechanisms underlying post-traumatic headaches are not fully understood, but they may involve changes in brain function, inflammation, muscle strain, or vascular changes following the injury.

What are the complications of a post-traumatic headache?

If left untreated, post-traumatic headaches can lead to several complications:

• Chronic daily headaches
• Persistent pain that affects daily functioning and quality of life
• Increased risk of depression and anxiety
• Sleep disturbances and fatigue
• Difficulty with cognitive functions such as memory and concentration

How do you prevent a post-traumatic headache?

Preventing post-traumatic headaches involves taking measures to avoid head injuries and managing any head trauma effectively:

• Use appropriate safety equipment such as helmets when participating in sports or riding bicycles and motorcycles.
• Implement measures to prevent falls, especially in the elderly, such as using handrails and removing tripping hazards.
• If you have young children, childproof your home to minimise the risk of falls and head bumps.
• Always wear seat belts and follow traffic safety rules to reduce the risk of motor vehicle accidents.
• Seek prompt medical care after any head injury to assess and manage potential complications.