Neuro Flashcards
(33 cards)
What are the diagnostic criteria for migraines?
Recurrent headaches lasting 4-72 hours, unilateral, pulsating, moderate-to-severe intensity, aggravated by activity, and associated with nausea/vomiting or photophobia/phonophobia.
How do you differentiate a migraine from a tension headache?
Migraines are unilateral, throbbing, and disabling, while tension headaches are bilateral and pressing/tightening without nausea.
What lifestyle modifications can help prevent migraines?
Identifying triggers (stress, diet, sleep deprivation), regular exercise, and stress management techniques.
What are the red flag symptoms that indicate a need for urgent imaging in TBI?
Loss of consciousness, worsening headache, vomiting, focal neurological deficits, and signs of skull fracture.
What is the recommended return-to-duty protocol following a concussion?
Stepwise return, starting with rest, then gradual activity resumption under medical supervision.
How would you address persistent post-concussive symptoms in a military setting?
Cognitive therapy, graded exercise, and treatment of associated mood or sleep disorders.
What are the hallmark features of a tension headache?
Bilateral, non-throbbing, band-like pressure with no associated nausea or photophobia.
What non-pharmacologic treatments are effective for tension headaches?
Stress reduction, physical therapy, relaxation techniques, posture correction.
When should imaging be considered for a patient with chronic headaches?
If red flag symptoms are present (sudden onset, neurological deficits, worsening pattern).
What are the key features of a cluster headache?
Unilateral, severe, sharp periorbital pain lasting 15-180 minutes, often with lacrimation and nasal congestion.
What is the acute abortive treatment for cluster headaches?
100% oxygen at 12-15 L/min and subcutaneous sumatriptan.
What lifestyle modifications can help prevent cluster headaches?
Avoid alcohol, smoking, and disrupted sleep schedules.
What is the first imaging study for suspected stroke?
Non-contrast CT of the head to rule out hemorrhagic stroke.
What is the time window for administering tPA in strokes?
Within 4.5 hours of symptom onset, if no contraindications.
What are the key components of post-stroke management?
Blood pressure control, statins, aspirin or clopidogrel, and physical rehabilitation.
What is the classic presentation of a subarachnoid hemorrhage?
Sudden onset “thunderclap” headache, nausea, nuchal rigidity, and possible altered mental status.
What is the first-line imaging modality for SAH?
Non-contrast CT head.
What additional test should be done if SAH is suspected but CT is negative?
Lumbar puncture to check for xanthochromia (blood in CSF).
What are common causes of new-onset seizures in adults?
Stroke, trauma, brain tumors, metabolic disturbances, and infections.
When should an anti-epileptic drug (AED) be initiated?
After two unprovoked seizures or a single seizure with high risk for recurrence.
What are the driving restrictions after a seizure?
Typically, no driving for 6 months and clearance by a neurologist.
What is the typical presentation of Guillain-Barré Syndrome?
Ascending, symmetric weakness with areflexia, often following a recent infection (e.g., Campylobacter jejuni).
What is the most serious complication of Guillain-Barré Syndrome?
Respiratory failure due to diaphragmatic muscle weakness.
What is the first-line treatment for Guillain-Barré Syndrome?
IV immunoglobulin (IVIG) or plasmapheresis.
