This device or software is intended for use only for general wellbeing purposes or to encourage or maintain a healthy lifestyle, and is not intended to be used for any medical purpose (such as the detection, diagnosis, monitoring, management or treatment of any medical condition or disease or contraception. Any health-related information provided by this device or software should not be treated as medical advice. Please consult a physician for any medical advice required.
In a medical emergency call 995 or visit the nearest Accident & Emergency department. Use of this symptom checker shall be at your sole discretion and risk. Parkway Group Healthcare Pte Ltd and its affiliates (including Parkway Shenton Pte Ltd) do not accept any responsibility for any reliance by you on the information provided.
A post-traumatic headache is a type of headache that occurs after a head injury, which can range from mild to severe trauma.
These headaches can manifest immediately following the injury or develop days to weeks later. Post-traumatic headaches are a common consequence of head injuries, including concussions, and can significantly affect the quality of life if not managed properly.
Types of post-traumatic headaches
Post-traumatic headaches can be classified based on their characteristics and underlying mechanisms:
Acute post-traumatic headache: Occurs within seven days of the head injury or regaining consciousness and typically resolves within three months.
Chronic post-traumatic headache: Persists for more than three months after the injury and may continue for years.
Migraine-like post-traumatic headache: Characterised by throbbing pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound, resembling a migraine.
Tension-type post-traumatic headache: Presented as a dull, aching pain, often with a sensation of tightness or pressure around the forehead or back of the head and neck.
What are the symptoms of a post-traumatic headache?
Symptoms of post-traumatic headache can vary widely but commonly include:
Persistent or intermittent head pain
Throbbing or pulsating pain, similar to migraines
Dull, aching pain, typical of tension-type headaches
Nausea or vomiting
Sensitivity to light (photophobia) and sound (phonophobia)
Dizziness or vertigo
Fatigue and irritability
Difficulty concentrating and memory problems
Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
When to seek medical attention?
You should seek medical attention if:
You experience a new headache following a head injury
The headache persists or worsens over time
Over-the-counter medications do not relieve the headache
The headache is accompanied by symptoms such as confusion, memory loss, or difficulty concentrating
You experience visual disturbances, dizziness, or balance problems
When to visit an urgent care centre?
Visit an urgent care centre if:
You experience a head injury resulting in loss of consciousness, confusion, slurred speech, vomiting, or seizures
You have a sudden, severe headache that is different from your usual headaches
The headache is accompanied by neurological symptoms such as weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking
You experience a high fever, stiff neck, confusion, or seizures
You have repeated vomiting or lose consciousness
What causes a post-traumatic headache?
Post-traumatic headaches are caused by head injuries that can result from various incidents, including:
Falls
Motor vehicle accidents
Sports injuries
Physical assaults
Explosive blasts (common in military personnel)
The exact mechanisms underlying post-traumatic headaches are not fully understood, but they may involve changes in brain function, inflammation, muscle strain, or vascular changes following the injury.
What are the complications of a post-traumatic headache?
If left untreated, post-traumatic headaches can lead to several complications:
Chronic daily headaches
Persistent pain that affects daily functioning and quality of life
Increased risk of depression and anxiety
Sleep disturbances and fatigue
Difficulty with cognitive functions such as memory and concentration
How do you prevent a post-traumatic headache?
Preventing post-traumatic headaches involves taking measures to avoid head injuries and managing any head trauma effectively:
Use appropriate safety equipment such as helmets when participating in sports or riding bicycles and motorcycles.
Implement measures to prevent falls, especially in the elderly, such as using handrails and removing tripping hazards.
If you have young children, childproof your home to minimise the risk of falls and head bumps.
Always wear seat belts and follow traffic safety rules to reduce the risk of motor vehicle accidents.
Seek prompt medical care after any head injury to assess and manage potential complications.
Always forgetting things, like your colleagues’ names, your best friend’s birthday or where you left your house keys? Combat forgetfulness with our list of things that help and hurt your memory.
