Syncope & Headaches

What is syncope?

Sudden, temporary loss of consciousness caused by insufficient blood flow to the brain

When does a syncope patient typically regain consciousness?

When lying supine

What can cause syncope?

Cardiovascular conditions, hypovolemia, non-cardiovascular disease, or idiopathic causes

How are headaches classified?

Acute or chronic, generalized or localized

What is an acute headache?

Sudden headache

What is a chronic headache?

Constant or recurring headache

What is a generalized headache?

Headache occurring all over

What is a localized headache?

Headache occurring in a specific area

How severe can headaches be?

Range from mild to severe and may become generalized

What are examples of vascular headaches?

Migraines and cluster headaches

What percentage of headaches are tension headaches?

Significant percentage

What should be suspected with a continuous throbbing headache, fever, confusion, and/or nuchal rigidity?

Meningitis

How long can a migraine last?

Minutes, hours, or days

How is migraine pain typically described?

Very intense and throbbing

What light-related symptom is common with migraines?

Photosensitivity

What gastrointestinal symptoms are common with migraines?

Nausea and vomiting

Are migraines typically unilateral or bilateral?

Unilateral

In what population are migraines commonly seen?

Women

What causes syncope?

Insufficient blood flow to the brain

What type of headache is sudden in onset?

Acute headache

What type of headache is constant or recurring?

Chronic headache

What type of headache affects the entire head?

Generalized headache

What type of headache affects a specific area?

Localized headache

What combination of symptoms should make you think meningitis?

Continuous throbbing headache, fever, confusion, and/or nuchal rigidity

What are the hallmark features of migraines?

Intense throbbing pain, photosensitivity, nausea/vomiting, and often unilateral pain