Headache after a head injury: Symptoms, persistence, and remedies
Post-concussion headaches are a common symptom of a concussion, with 95% of people developing a headache following a concussion, according to the American Headache Society (AHS). These headaches can range from migraine-like to tension-type, and understanding the differences in treatment options is crucial for effective management.
Migraine-like Post-Concussion Headaches
For those experiencing migraine-like post-concussion headaches, treatment may include pain medications, often starting with over-the-counter analgesics. If these prove ineffective, doctors may prescribe stronger or specific migraine medications. In some cases, Botox injections, intravenous (IV) therapies, and lifestyle modifications targeted at stress management, nutrition, and sleep hygiene may be recommended. It is important to note that medication attention is necessary to avoid medication-overuse headaches, particularly in adolescents.
Tension-type or Cervicogenic Headaches
On the other hand, tension-type or cervicogenic headaches, which are common after concussion due to neck involvement, are best managed through physical therapy. This therapy addresses cervical spine dysfunction, neuromuscular imbalances, and myofascial restrictions to relieve pain and improve mechanics contributing to headaches. Techniques like fascial counterstrain, manual therapy, vestibular therapy (if balance is affected), and neuromuscular re-education form the core of physical therapy interventions.
Additional Interventions
Both migraine-like and tension-type headaches may benefit from additional interventions such as addressing sleep problems with supplements like melatonin and complementary treatments, such as acupuncture. Acupuncture has shown promising reductions in post-concussion symptom severity, potentially by influencing brain microstructure and symptomatology.
It is essential to follow up with a doctor after experiencing a concussion and continue to do so if recurring headaches persist for months or years following the concussion. The pain from post-concussion headaches can present in various locations, including the front of the head or around the temples, and may be throbbing or pounding. Additionally, symptoms such as sensitivity to light, nausea, insomnia, fatigue, dizziness, poor concentration, and personality changes such as depression or nervousness may occur.
In some cases, post-concussion headaches can mimic various types of headaches, such as migraine or tension headaches. However, it is crucial to distinguish between these conditions to provide the most effective treatment. Some people may benefit from therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy and other non-pharmaceutical approaches.
Postconcussion syndrome, a condition characterized by prolonged symptoms, can occur due to damage to nerves in the brain. Symptoms of postconcussion syndrome include fatigue, difficulty balancing, confusion, vision changes, insomnia, dizziness, trouble concentrating, and more.
In summary, migraine-like headaches after a concussion respond better to pharmacological and lifestyle-focused interventions, while tension-type and cervicogenic headaches benefit more from targeted physical therapy addressing neck and muscular dysfunction. Both types may benefit from complementary approaches such as acupuncture and sleep management. If you have experienced a concussion and are experiencing recurring headaches, it is recommended to seek medical attention to determine the best course of treatment.
- A significant number of people (95%) who suffer from a concussion develop headaches, according to the American Headache Society (AHS).
- Understanding the differences in treatment options for post-concussion headaches is important for effective management.
- Those experiencing migraine-like post-concussion headaches may turn to pain medications, with over-the-counter analgesics often the first step.
- If over-the-counter solutions are ineffective, doctors may prescribe stronger or specific migraine medications.
- In some cases, Botox injections, intravenous (IV) therapies, and lifestyle modifications focused on stress management, nutrition, and sleep hygiene may be recommended.
- Tension-type or cervicogenic headaches, common after concussions due to neck involvement, are best managed through physical therapy.
- Physical therapy addresses cervical spine dysfunction, neuromuscular imbalances, and myofascial restrictions to relieve pain and improve mechanics contributing to headaches.
- Acupuncture has shown promising reductions in post-concussion symptom severity and may be used as a complementary treatment.
- If you've suffered a concussion, it is essential to follow up with a doctor if recurring headaches persist for months or years following the concussion.
- Symptoms such as sensitivity to light, nausea, insomnia, fatigue, dizziness, poor concentration, and personality changes such as depression or nervousness may occur.
- Postconcussion syndrome, a condition characterized by prolonged symptoms, can occur due to damage to nerves in the brain.
- This condition leads to symptoms like fatigue, difficulty balancing, confusion, vision changes, insomnia, dizziness, trouble concentrating, and more.
- After a concussion, it is recommended to seek medical attention if recurring headaches are experienced to determine the best course of treatment. This could involve a variety of interventions, such as pain medications, physical therapy, complementary treatments like acupuncture, and lifestyle modifications.
