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Chronic Headaches

Editor: Sajid Hameed Updated: 7/31/2023 9:09:02 PM

Introduction

Chronic headache is not a single disease entity but an umbrella term that encompasses all chronic headaches. The International Headache Society defines chronic daily headaches (CDH) as "15 or more headache episodes per month for at least three months."[1] Chronic headaches are not an official class in the International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD).[2] 

CDH is rather a descriptive term that most encompasses five subtypes of primary and secondary headaches defined by ICHD-3:

  • Chronic migraine headache
  • Chronic tension-type headache
  • Medication overuse headache (MOH)
  • Hemicrania continua
  • New daily persistent headache

A chronic daily headache can be divided into primary and secondary headache disorders depending upon its etiology. Primary chronic headache disorders do not have secondary organic etiology. Within the primary headache categories, a headache duration of fewer than 4 hours is labeled as a 'short headache .' More than 4 hours is known as a 'long headache.' Long headaches more commonly include chronic migraine and chronic tension headaches.[1] Secondary headaches can occur due to secondary causes such as medication overuse, intracranial tumors, central nervous system (CNS) infections, raised intracranial pressure, metabolic abnormalities, post-traumatic, vascular, and structural pathologies.[3] It is important to realize that chronic headaches are often caused by a multifactorial combination of the causes mentioned above and can occur along a continuum.

Etiology

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Etiology

The International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD) recognizes over 200 headache disorders and divides them into three groups, which are primary, secondary, and painful cranial neuropathies.[4] The ICHD system is hierarchical, with multiple subtypes within each main headache type.

All chronic headaches meet the criteria of occurring at least 15 times a month for at least three months, but both primary and secondary chronic headaches have unique characteristics.

Primary headaches lasting more than four hours include chronic migraines, tension headaches, persistent daily headaches, and hemicrania continua. 

  • Chronic migraine has typical features of being unilateral, pulsatile, moderate to severe, and may or may not have an aura.[4] Episodic migraines may evolve into chronic migraines.
  • Chronic migraine in children and adolescents is often bilateral, and associated symptoms such as photophobia and phonophobia are often inferred from behavior.[5]
  • Chronic headaches, which are bilateral, non-pulsatile, and lack associated symptoms, are classified as chronic tension headaches.[4] Pericranial tenderness is often found on palpation.
  • A new persistent daily headache (NDPH) occurs suddenly and becomes unremitting within 24 hours of onset. Patients typically have no prior history of headaches. NDPH is rare and refractory to treatment.[6]
  • Hemicrania continua is unilateral, has autonomic symptoms, and is continuous with exacerbations. Responsiveness to indomethacin helps distinguish this form of headache.

Primary headaches lasting less than four hours include chronic cluster headaches, neuralgiform headache attacks, and primary stabbing headaches.

  • Chronic cluster headache varies from the acute form in that there are no remissions, and headaches must occur over at least one year. Headaches are unilateral in the trigeminal distribution and associated with unilateral autonomic symptoms. Patients often experience agitation during the headache.
  • The short-lasting neuralgiform headaches include short-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks with conjunctival injection and tearing (SUNCT) and short-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks with cranial autonomic symptoms (SUNA). Both types have severe, unilateral pain associated with autonomic symptoms. In addition, SUNCT has both lacrimation and conjunctival injection. SUNA may have either but not both of those features and may be accompanied by rhinorrhea or nasal congestion.
  • Primary stabbing headaches may frequently occur throughout the day. Sharp, sudden, jabbing pain occurs in the temporal or peri-orbital regions.

Secondary chronic daily headaches include medication overuse, CNS infection, CNS hematomas, intracranial tumor, raised intracranial pressure, low-pressure headache, vasculitis, aneurysms, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak.[2]

  • Chronic medication overuse headaches often overlap with other acute and chronic headache types. Analgesics are widely used for symptom control in migraine and tension headaches. Patients inadvertently increase headache frequency by overuse of analgesics. The ICHD further classifies this disorder based on the medications used, including NSAIDs, triptans, ergotamines, non-opioid, and opioid analgesics.[7] Withdrawal of analgesics typically worsens these headaches.
  • The remainder of the secondary chronic headache etiologies is beyond the scope of this article.

Epidemiology

Headache disorders have a large global burden. Both acute and chronic headaches are most prevalent between the teenage years and the fifth decade.[8]

Chronic headaches occur in 1 to 4% of the entire population.[9] Approximately 39 million people in the United States and 1 billion people worldwide are affected. Of patients seen in a headache clinic, 40% are diagnosed with chronic headaches. Prevalence rates in women are 3 to 5 times higher than in men.[4]

Chronic migraines are associated with significant comorbidities, including obesity, obstructive sleep apnea, depression, chronic pain disorders, and cardiovascular disease.[10]

Chronic migraine headaches also have a prevalence of 7 to 17% in children and adolescents.[5] The prevalence is equal between boys and girls until age 12, when females predominate.

Hemicrania continua is less common than chronic migraine or tension headache. It has a 2 to 1 female to male incidence, with the peak diagnosis occurring in the third decade.

Chronic cluster headache occurs more often in men but is also experienced by women. Women often have nausea and vomiting associated with chronic cluster headaches and may be initially diagnosed with migraine headaches.[11]

Pathophysiology

Although the pathophysiology of each type of chronic headache varies, shared features include sensitization of the trigeminal system, alterations in brain structure and function, and environmental factors.[12] Most chronic headaches result from the transformation of an episodic headache disorder. 

Modifiable risk factors, including sleep disorders, obesity, and high caffeine consumption, increase the chance of headache transformation from episodic to chronic headaches.

Serotonin, which has vasoconstrictive and anti-inflammatory effects, is a therapeutic target of triptans in migraines.

Serotonin, released from the brainstem serotonergic nuclei, may play a role in migraine; however, the exact role of its mechanisms remains a matter of controversy. Most likely, serotonin levels are low between attacks because it may cause a deficiency in the serotonin pain inhibition system, therefore helping the activation of the trigeminal system. It could mediate by acting directly over the cranial vessels, in central pain control pathways, or by cortical projections of brainstem serotonergic nuclei.[13][14]

Calcitonin gene-related peptide is abundant in trigeminal ganglion neurons. It is released from the peripheral and central nerve terminals and secreted within the trigeminal ganglion. When released from the peripheral terminals, it initiates an increased synthesis of nitric oxide and later sensitization of trigeminal nerves.[15][16] It is a strong vasodilator of cerebral and dura mater vessels, therefore a component of neurogenic inflammation. It also mediates trigeminal pain transmission from vessels to the central nervous system.

Medication overuse headaches share much of the pathophysiology of migraine and tension headaches as functional and structural changes in the central nervous system. Changes in the serotonergic neuromodulatory system and upregulation of vasoactive and pro-inflammatory mediators also contribute.[7] The condition exhibits both functional and structural changes in the central nervous system (CNS), particularly the hippocampal periaqueductal gray area, posterior cingulate cortex thalamus, cerebellum, and orbitofrontal cortex (OFC), and the mesocorticolimbic reward system.[17][18] Also found were changes in the serotonergic neuromodulatory system, upregulation of vasoactive and pro-inflammatory mediators, increased susceptibility to cortical spreading depression, central sensitization, and an increase in nociceptive sensory fields.[19] Some studies have theorized a potential genetic risk as to the etiology of the development of MOH. One such model is the renin-angiotensin system, known to have an active role in regulating neural plasticity.[20]

Trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias, cluster headache, SUNCT, SUNA, and hemicrania continua, have complex pathogenesis. Severe pain and autonomic symptoms are attributed to the trigeminal autonomic reflex via pain-producing innervation and cranial parasympathetic activation.[21]

History and Physical

A thorough history and physical exam are indispensable in the diagnosis of chronic daily headaches. As noted above, a chronic headache should have 15 or more monthly episodes for at least three months. One should determine the frequency, intensity, and characteristics of the pain, as well as the aggravating and alleviating factors. Many headache types involve ipsilateral autonomic symptoms such as lacrimation, conjunctival injection, conjunctival edema, ptosis, miosis, nasal congestion, rhinorrhea, etc.

A thorough medication reconciliation, including over-the-counter analgesics, is essential. Patients with medication-overuse headaches often have a primary headache disorder, and they frequently use pain medications.[22] Medication classes may include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), triptans, ergotamines, opioids, or a combination of multiple analgesics. Key historical features include morning headaches, the onset of headaches when medication is delayed, and relief when medication is taken.[23]

Comorbidities, sleep history, and a family history of headaches should also be noted. A secondary headache disorder should be excluded from the history and examination. 

Recognition of headache "red flags" is critical in identifying secondary headaches and ordering additional diagnostic testing. Those "red flags" include:

  • Age above 50
  • A significant change in prior headache pattern
  • Severe, "thunderclap" headache
  • Systemic illness signs such as fever
  • Known illness which increases the risk for secondary headaches such as cancer or HIV
  • Neurologic symptoms 
  • Headaches associated with Valsalva maneuvers[24]

Physical exam findings concerning secondary headache causes include focal neurological deficits, papilledema, bitemporal hemianopia, homonymous hemianopia, decreased visual acuity, or increased pain with the Valsalva method.

Primary chronic headaches often lack physical findings but may have autonomic activation or muscle tenderness in the occipital or cervical regions.

Evaluation

Further evaluation may not be warranted in a straightforward chronic primary headache disorder. Still, many clinicians will advise baseline laboratory testing and brain imaging to exclude the secondary treatable causes.

The necessary information that has to be gathered consists of these simple questions:

  • Demographic features of the patient: age, gender, race, profession
  • When did the headache start?
  • Where does it hurt? Location, irradiation.
  • What is the intensity of the pain?
  • How is the pain? Which are the qualitative characteristics of the pain?
  • How long does the pain last?
  • At which moment of the day does the pain appear?
  • How has it evolved since it started?
  • What is the frequency of appearance?
  • What are the triggering situations?
  • Simultaneous symptoms?
  • Is it related to sleep?
  • How does it get better or worse?
  • Which medications do you take to make it better? What is the frequency of this medication?

Laboratory workup includes a complete blood count to look for infection. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is increased in giant cell arteritis and other vasculitides. A metabolic panel looks for metabolic causes of headaches and endocrine testings to look for pituitary gland abnormalities.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain is the imaging modality of choice.[25] A contrast study is often recommended to increase the sensitivity and specificity to detect structural abnormalities. A need for vascular imaging is based on the differential diagnosis. Further studies may be warranted depending upon the underlying cause. These may include positron emission tomography (PET) scan, magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), and/or biopsy. A lumbar puncture may be required if there is suspicion of a CNS infection or idiopathic intracranial hypertension.

Medication Overuse Headache by Drug Class and Duration of Headache

  • Ergotamine--> ten days/month for over three months
  • Triptan--> ten days/month for over three months
  • ASA-->15 days/month for over three months
  • NSAIDs-->15 days/month for >3 months
  • Acetaminophen/paracetamol-->15 days/month for over three months
  • Opioids--> ten days/month for over three months
  • Combination analgesics--> ten days/month for over three months
  • Multiple drug classes--> ten days/month for over three months[22]

Treatment / Management

Treatment and management of chronic headache disorders depend upon the underlying etiology and may require an interprofessional approach.

The patient should maintain a headache journal documenting their headache episodes and any accompanying triggers. If found, stressors should be avoided or minimized. 

Chronic Migraine

  • Chronic migraine treatment should begin with setting the expectation that headache frequency and severity will decrease, but headaches will not be eliminated.
  • The patient should be counseled that high caffeine intake, sleep deprivation, overuse of analgesics, and comorbid conditions can worsen chronic migraines.
  • Prophylactic pharmacologic treatment should be used. First-line therapy includes beta-blockers, anticonvulsants, and antidepressants. The most commonly used medications are propranolol, topiramate, and amitriptyline.[26]
  • Botulinum toxin A is a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved treatment for chronic migraines and is considered second-line therapy.
  • Monoclonal antibodies that target calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) are the newest development in chronic migraine treatment. Erenumab, fremanezumab, and galcanezumab are approved for chronic migraines, which have failed to respond to other treatments.[26]
  • Triptans, steroids, NSAIDs, and opioids are often used to abort acute episodes, but routine use of these medications increases the risk of developing a medication-overuse headache.
  • Patients may also benefit from psychological counseling if anxiety or depression is present.
  • Manual medicine, such as spinal manipulation and trigger point treatment, may be used as complementary or alternative therapy.[27]
  • In drug-resistant cases, invasive procedures such as sphenopalatine ganglion and occipital nerve blockades may be tried with variable results. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is also used in some treatment-resistant cases.[28][29] 
  • (B3)

Chronic Tension Headache

  • Amitriptyline, a tricyclic antidepressant, is recommended as the first-line treatment for chronic tension headaches.
  • Amitriptyline, in addition to inhibiting serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake, also reduces tenderness in pericranial muscles.
  • Tricyclic antidepressants increase the risk for cardiac arrhythmia, and patients should be screened for cardiovascular disorders before initiating therapy. In addition, patients over 40 should undergo an ECG.
  • Anticonvulsants, such as topiramate and gabapentin, can be considered second-line treatment.
  • Addressing the potential musculoskeletal causes of tension headaches, treatment with physical therapy, acupuncture, trigger point injections, spinal manipulation, or muscle relaxants may be beneficial.[30]
  • Behavioral therapy, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, biofeedback, and relaxation techniques, is particularly helpful for patients with coexisting anxiety or depression.
  • (A1)

Medication Overuse Headache

  • Patient education about the potential for overuse of analgesic medication to lead to headache progression is key. Include the use of over-the-counter analgesics in the discussion.
  • The physician initiates a preventative medication while simultaneously assisting the patient in discontinuing the causative drug.
  • Patients may experience withdrawal symptoms of nausea and anxiety for 2 to 10 days when the analgesic medication is discontinued.
  • There is no consensus on the most appropriate medication for bridge therapy following discontinuation of the offending drug. Long-acting NSAIDs, prednisone, dihydroergotamine, and antiemetics are options.[31] The medication should not be from the same class as the offending medication.
  • Medications that may be effective for prophylaxis include topiramate, amitryptiline, valproic acid, and beta-blockers. The choice of medication should be based upon comorbidities and the primary headache disorder.[32]
  • (B3)

Chronic Autonomic Cephalgia

  • Indomethacin is the drug of choice for paroxysmal hemicrania, hemicrania continua, primary stabbing headache, hypnic headache, and Valsalva-induced headaches (e.g., cough headache, exercise headache).
  • Verapamil is the drug of choice for the prevention of chronic cluster headaches. However, Verapamil requires titration to become effective, and glucocorticoids or dihydroergotamine can be used for exacerbations.
  • Chronic cluster headaches not responsive to pharmacologic therapy can be treated with a non-invasive vagus nerve stimulator or sphenopalatine ganglion microstimulator.[11]
  • First-line prophylactic therapy for chronic SUNCT and SUNA is lamotrigine. Topiramate and gabapentin are alternatives.[33]

Differential Diagnosis

  • Medication-overuse headache 
  • Brain neoplasm 
  • Chronic infections (e.g., CNS tuberculosis)
  • Chronic sinusitis
  • Cervical spine-related pain
  • CNS vasculitis
  • Temporomandibular joint pathologies
  • Idiopathic intracranial hypertension
  • Chronic hydrocephalus
  • Cerebral aneurysms
  • Chronic paroxysmal hemicrania
  • Dissection syndromes
  • Encephalitis
  • Subarachnoid/intracranial hemorrhage
  • Meningitis
  • Temporal/giant cell arteritis

Treatment Planning

Table 1. Acute therapy for migraine *Adverse effects in this section pertain to all triptans unless specified

Drug class/Drug Drug Dose range Notes
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
  • Aspirin[34]
  • Ibuprofen
  • Naproxen
  • Diclofenac
  • Diclofenac epolamine
  • Tolfemanic acid
  • Celecoxib[35]
  • Dexletoprofen
  • 900-100 mg
  • 400-600 mg
  • 275-825 mg
  • 50-100 mg
  • 65 mg
  • 200 mg
  • 120 mg
  • 50 mg
All NSAIDs have similar efficacy 
Non-opioid analgesic
  • 1000-3000 g
Acute-life threatening hepatotoxicity at > 4 g/d

Serotonin 1b/1d agonists (triptans)

(Sumatriptan)*[37]

  • Sumatriptan (oral)

 

 

 

  • Sumatriptan (intranasal solution)[38]

 

 

 

  • Sumatriptan (intranasal powder)

 

 

 

  • Sumatriptan (spray)

 

 

 

  • Sumatriptan (subcutaneous)
  • 50-100 mg as a single dose, maximum dose: 200 mg/d

 

  • 20 mg as a single dose in 1 nostril; if symptoms persist, may repeat dose after ≥2 hours, maximum dose: 40 mg/d

 

  • 22 mg as a single dose, may repeat dose after ≥2 hours if symptoms persist or return, maximum dose: 44 mg/d

 

  • 10 mg as a single dose in 1 nostril. Repeat dose after ≥1 hour if symptoms persist or return; maximum dose: 30 mg/d

 

  • 6 mg as a single dose, may repeat dose (usually same as the first dose) after ≥1 hour if symptoms persist or return, or lesser dosage if 6 mg was not tolerated, maximum dose: 6 mg/dose; 12 mg/d

All formulations of triptans are contraindicated in severe hepatic impairment.

Contraindicated in patients with cardiovascular illness as prolonged QT interval on ECG and subsequent ventricular arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes (TdP) and ventricular fibrillation, are reported.

It may also cause dizziness, lethargy, tremor, vertigo, akathisia, dystonia, and pathological laughter.

Other vasospasm-related events include peripheral ischemia, ischemic colitis, splenic infarction, and Raynaud disease.

It should be avoided in patients with uncontrolled hypertension and pregnancy.

There are ocular side effects like transient and permanent blindness and significant partial vision loss.

The use of concomitant serotonergic drugs may cause serotonin syndrome.

Unpleasant taste is lower with intranasal zolmitriptan as compared to intranasal sumatriptan.

Patients who do not respond to one triptan may respond to another.

Naratriptan and frovatriptan have a slower onset and lower efficacy.

Serotonin 1b/1d agonists (triptans)

(Naratriptan) 

 
  • 2.5 mg as a single dose; may repeat dose after ≥4 hours; maximum dose: 2.5 mg/dose; 5 mg/d.

Use within 24 hours of an ergotamine preparation or a different triptan is not advised.

Contraindicated with severe renal impairment (CrCl <15 mL/minute).

Serotonin 1b/1d agonists (triptans)

(Zolmitriptan)

  • Zolmitriptan (oral)

 

 

  • Zolmitriptan (intranasal)
  •  2.5 mg as a single dose; may repeat dose after ≥2 hours; maximum dose: 5 mg/dose; 10 mg/d[40]

 

  • 2.5 to 5 mg as a single dose; may repeat dose after ≥2 hours; maximum: 5 mg/dose; 10 mg/d
Refer to the section on sumatriptan above for the side effects of triptans.

Serotonin 1b/1d agonists (triptans)

(Frovatriptan)

  • Frovatriptan
  • 2.5 mg as a single dose; may repeat dose after ≥2 hours if needed; maximum dose: 2.5 mg/dose; 5 mg/d  
Slower onset 

Serotonin 1b/1d agonists (triptans)

(Almotriptan) 

  • Almotriptan 
  • 12.5 mg as a single dose; may repeat dose after ≥2 hours when needed; maximum dose: 12.5 mg/dose; 25 mg/d[41]
Reduce dose to half with hepatic impairment 

Serotonin 1b/1d agonists (triptans)

(Rizatriptan)

  • Rizatriptan

 

  • 5 to 10 mg as a single dose; may repeat dose after ≥2 hours if needed; maximum dose: 20-30 mg/d
Propranolol increases rizatriptan levels by 70%. So the dose of rizatriptan must be adjusted downward in these patients.

Serotonin 1b/1d agonists (triptans)

(Eletriptan)

  • 40 mg as a single dose; may repeat dose after ≥2 hours if needed; maximum dose: 40 mg/dose; 80 mg/d
Primarily metabolized by cytochrome P-450 enzyme CYP3A4. Not advised within at least 72 hours of treatment with other drugs that are potent CYP3A4 inhibitors: itraconazole, ketoconazole, clarithromycin, nefazodone, troleandomycin, ritonavir, and nelfinavir.

 Antiemetics

  • Metoclopramide (IV, IM, oral)[43]

 

  • Prochlorperazine (IV, IM)
  • 10-20 mg as a single dose

 

  • 10 mg as a single dose
IV route is preferred for metoclopramide. Pretreat with diphenhydramine to prevent akathisia and other acute dystonic reactions.
Calcitonin-gene-related peptide (CGRP) antagonists

 

 

  • 75 mg every other day; maximum dose: 75 mg/d

 

  • 50 to 100 mg as a single dose; may repeat dose after ≥2 hours if needed; maximum dose: 200 mg/d

Administration early in the course of a migraine attack may improve response to treatment.

Second-line therapy when triptans are contraindicated, poorly tolerated, or ineffective.

More studies are needed to establish efficacy and safety.

 Serotonin 5-HT1F receptor agonist
  • 50 to 100 mg as a single dose; may increase to 100 or 200 mg as a single dose if needed; repeat doses have not established efficacy.

Administration early in the course of a migraine attack may improve response to treatment.

Second-line therapy when triptans are contraindicated, poorly tolerated, or ineffective.

A major side effect is dizziness (9% to 17%). Wait for at least 8 hours between dosing and driving or operating heavy machinery.

May enhance the CNS depressant effect of alcohol.

 Ergot derivative
  •  Dihydroergotamine[47]
  • IM: 1 mg as a single dose; may repeat hourly as required; maximum dose: 3 mg/d, 6 mg/week
  • IV: 1 mg as a single dose; may repeat hourly as required; maximum dose: 2 mg/d, 6 mg/week
  • SUBQUT: 1 mg as a single dose; may repeat every 2 hours as required; maximum dose: 3 mg/d, 6 mg/week
  • Intranasal : 0.5 mg per spray: 1 spray (0.5 mg) into each nostril; repeat after 15 minutes (total of 4 sprays per dose); maximum dose: 4 sprays (1 dose)/d

 

Use is contraindicated in severe hepatic or renal impairment as well as pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Also contraindicated in patients with hypertension or ischemic heart disease.

Should not be used within 24 hours of triptans or ergot-like agents.

Use with potent inhibitors of CYP3A4 (including azole antifungals, protease inhibitors, and some macrolide antibiotics) is also avoided.

Table 2. Preventive therapy for migraine[48]

Drug Class Drug Dose Range Adverse Effects/Contraindications
Beta-adrenoceptor blockers[49]
  • Propranolol
  • Metoprolol
  • Timolol
  • 80-240 mg
  • 50-150 mg
  • 10-20 mg
  • Contraindicated in asthma, syncope, heart block
Antidepressants
  • Amitriptyline
  • Nortriptyline
  • Venlafaxine
  • 10-150 mg
  • 25-100 mg
  • 37.5-150 mg
  • Somnolence
  • Insomnia, hypertension
Calcium-channel blockers
  • 180-480 mg
  • Constipation, hypotension, edema
Antiepileptic drugs[49]
  • Divalproex sodium
  • Topiramate
  • Gabapentin
  • 200-1500 mg
  • 25-150 mg
  • 300-1800 mg
  • Weight gain, thrombocytopenia, tremor
  • Renal calculi, amnesia, glaucoma, dysequilibrium, weight loss
CGRP monoclonal antibodies
  • Erenumab
  • Galcanezumab
  • 70 to 140 mg every four weeks, subcutaneously
  • 120 mg monthly subcut
  • Injection site reactions, muscle spasm, hypersensitivity reaction
  • Injection site reactions, vertigo, pruritus, constipation

Prognosis

The prognosis of chronic headaches is variable. Anxiety and mood disorders, elevated stress levels, insufficient sleep, poor headache management, and low socioeconomic status are the primary prognostic characteristics—patients with higher expectations for treatment display a better prognosis for decreased headache intensity and frequency. No specific age group has an improved response to treatment. Incidence at an older age generally correlates to less severe symptoms. Employed patients responded better to treatment than those patients on medical leave.[9] Exercise, prophylactic medication regimen compliance, and cessation of overused medications tend to lead to a favorable prognosis.[1]

Complications

  • Mood disorders
  • Decreased quality of life
  • Suicide
  • Unemployment
  • Progressive neurological deficits
  • Vision loss
  • Seizures
  • Drowsiness
  • Medication adverse effects

Deterrence and Patient Education

Patients should be educated to become more aware of their headache symptoms and triggers. Interventions should be clearly explained to patients.  

The role of over-the-counter analgesics in medication overuse headaches must be explained to patients. Patients with all types of primary headaches have the potential to overuse analgesics. They should be counseled on the potential for frequent use of these medications to worsen the intensity and frequency of headaches.

Enhancing Healthcare Team Outcomes

Management of patients with chronic headaches will require the efforts of an interprofessional healthcare team. The interprofessional care provided to the patient must use an integrated care pathway combined with an evidence-based approach to planning and evaluating all joint activities. Primary care clinicians (MDs, DOs, NPs, and PAs) obtain the assistance of an internist, a neurologist, or a headache specialist if there's any doubt about the diagnosis. Nurses and psychologists can assist team management by teaching lifestyle changes, mental health supervision, drug overuse detoxification, and medication use recommendations.

Pharmacists can aid the team in checking for appropriate dosing and determining drug interactions, especially if the patient is treated for chronic migraines. Nursing must coordinate activities between the various disciplines and often serve as initial contact points for patients and other team members. All interprofessional team members must document any changes in patient status as they observe them and notify the appropriate other parties on the healthcare team so additional diagnostic and/or therapeutic measures can occur if necessary. Open communication among team members is crucial to optimal patient care.

An interprofessional team that provides an integrated approach to patient care can help achieve the best possible outcomes. Collaboration, shared decision-making, and communication are crucial for a good result. [Level 5]

References


[1]

Murinova N, Krashin D. Chronic daily headache. Physical medicine and rehabilitation clinics of North America. 2015 May:26(2):375-89. doi: 10.1016/j.pmr.2015.01.001. Epub 2015 Mar 6     [PubMed PMID: 25952071]


[2]

Sheeler RD, Garza I, Vargas BB, O'Neil AE. Chronic Daily Headache: Ten Steps for Primary Care Providers to Regain Control. Headache. 2016 Nov:56(10):1675-1684. doi: 10.1111/head.12881. Epub 2016 Aug 23     [PubMed PMID: 27552176]


[3]

Yancey JR, Sheridan R, Koren KG. Chronic daily headache: diagnosis and management. American family physician. 2014 Apr 15:89(8):642-8     [PubMed PMID: 24784123]


[4]

. Headache Classification Committee of the International Headache Society (IHS) The International Classification of Headache Disorders, 3rd edition. Cephalalgia : an international journal of headache. 2018 Jan:38(1):1-211. doi: 10.1177/0333102417738202. Epub     [PubMed PMID: 29368949]


[5]

Özge A, Faedda N, Abu-Arafeh I, Gelfand AA, Goadsby PJ, Cuvellier JC, Valeriani M, Sergeev A, Barlow K, Uludüz D, Yalın OÖ, Lipton RB, Rapoport A, Guidetti V. Experts' opinion about the primary headache diagnostic criteria of the ICHD-3rd edition beta in children and adolescents. The journal of headache and pain. 2017 Nov 23:18(1):109. doi: 10.1186/s10194-017-0818-y. Epub 2017 Nov 23     [PubMed PMID: 29285570]

Level 3 (low-level) evidence

[6]

Yamani N, Olesen J. New daily persistent headache: a systematic review on an enigmatic disorder. The journal of headache and pain. 2019 Jul 15:20(1):80. doi: 10.1186/s10194-019-1022-z. Epub 2019 Jul 15     [PubMed PMID: 31307396]

Level 1 (high-level) evidence

[7]

Vandenbussche N, Laterza D, Lisicki M, Lloyd J, Lupi C, Tischler H, Toom K, Vandervorst F, Quintana S, Paemeleire K, Katsarava Z. Medication-overuse headache: a widely recognized entity amidst ongoing debate. The journal of headache and pain. 2018 Jul 13:19(1):50. doi: 10.1186/s10194-018-0875-x. Epub 2018 Jul 13     [PubMed PMID: 30003412]


[8]

Stovner LJ, Al Jumah M, Birbeck GL, Gururaj G, Jensen R, Katsarava Z, Queiroz LP, Scher AI, Tekle-Haimanot R, Wang SJ, Steiner TJ. The methodology of population surveys of headache prevalence, burden and cost: principles and recommendations from the Global Campaign against Headache. The journal of headache and pain. 2014 Jan 27:15(1):5. doi: 10.1186/1129-2377-15-5. Epub 2014 Jan 27     [PubMed PMID: 24467862]

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