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Cough Headaches

Diseases and Conditions Cough Headaches
Overview Types Causes & Risk Factors Symptoms Preventions Treatment
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Overview

Cough headaches are an unusual type of head pain triggered by coughing or other forms of straining. These may include sneezing, laughing, crying, singing, bending over, or even having a bowel movement. There are two main types of cough headaches:

Types of Cough Headaches

  1. Primary Cough Headaches:
    • Usually harmless and caused solely by coughing.
    • Typically resolve quickly without treatment.
    • Diagnosed after ruling out other potential causes.
  2. Secondary Cough Headaches:
    • Triggered by a cough but caused by brain or spinal issues.
    • May require more serious treatment, including surgery.

Causes of Cough Headaches

The exact cause of primary cough headaches remains unclear. However, secondary cough headaches are associated with structural problems in the brain or nearby structures. These might include issues like cerebrospinal fluid leaks or tumors.

Risk Factors of Cough Headaches

Risk factors for cough headaches include:

  • Age: More common in older adults.
  • Gender: Slightly more prevalent in men.
  • Other Conditions: People with conditions like migraines or Chiari malformation may be at higher risk.

Symptoms of Cough Headaches

Symptoms of cough headaches include:
1. Sudden Onset: Pain begins abruptly during or after coughing.
2. Duration: Lasts from a few seconds to a few minutes (some cases up to two hours).
3. Pain Type: Sharp, stabbing, or bursting pain.
4. Location: Affects both sides of the head, often worse at the back.
5. Follow-Up: May be followed by dull, aching pain for hours.

Preventions of Cough Headaches

While prevention strategies are limited, consider:

  • Avoiding Triggers: Minimize activities that lead to coughing.
  • Hydration: Stay well-hydrated.
  • Rest: Get adequate rest during illness.

Diagnosis of Cough Headaches

A healthcare provider will assess your symptoms, perform a physical examination, and may order imaging tests (such as MRI or CT scans) to rule out underlying issues.

Treatment for Cough Headaches

Treatment options include:

  • Addressing Underlying Causes: For secondary cough headaches, addressing the underlying condition is crucial.
  • Lifestyle Modifications: Avoid triggers and maintain good hydration.

When to seek medical attention ?

Consult your doctor if you experience sudden headaches after coughing, especially if they are new, frequent, severe, or accompanied by other troubling signs (imbalance, blurred vision, etc.).

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