Headache and head trauma.

ABSTRACT

Headache is a common symptom following head trauma and not related to the degree of trauma. The term post-head-trauma syndrome is used to denote a group of symptoms following head trauma. Dizziness, vertigo, perceptual changes, memory loss, paresthesias, and tinnitus have been reported as well as psychological disturbances. Pathophysiology of headache and other symptoms in the syndrome are believed to relate to vascular and neuronal disturbances. Imaging techniques may provide objective evidence of changes in the brain. Often diagnostic studies do not reveal an abnormality. Treatment consists of diagnosing the type of headache and targeting appropriate therapy. Long-term prognosis is good, the majority of patients recovering after 1 year.