Non-traumatic Acute Headaches Flashcards

1
Q

what is the goal when a patient presents with an acute headache?

A

identify potentially life-threatening conditions

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
2
Q

what are the red flags? (5)

A

Systemic symptoms

Neurological symptoms

Onset is new (esp. over 50 yo)

Other conditions/features

Previous headache history is progressing or changing

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
3
Q

in which cases of acute headache onset are we concerned for increased ICP? (4)

A

after:
valsalva/cough
position change
exertion
sexual activity

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
4
Q

what is the preferred imaging? (2)

A

CT head
OR
MRI head

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
5
Q

in which 3 cases is imaging emergent?

A

abnormal neuro exam
AMS
thunderclap headache (SAH)

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
6
Q

in which 2 cases is imaging urgent (must be done within 48 hours)?

A

HIV positive
over 50 years old

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
7
Q

what vital sign should we get to determine if patient has carbon monoxide poisoning?

A

co-oximeter reading

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
8
Q

what part of the physical exam is important in patients older than 60?

A

palpate for scalp/temporal artery tenderness

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly