Acta Scientific Medical Sciences (ASMS)(ISSN: 2582-0931)

Review Article Volume 8 Issue 12

Headache Disorders: A Systematic Review of Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Therapeutic Approaches

Edwin Dias1,2* and Abd Al Rahman Ismail3

1HOD and Professor, Department of Paediatrics, Srinivas Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Mangalore, Karnataka State, India
2Adjunct Professor, Srinivas University, Director of Research and Publication, India
3Final Year Pharm D, Srinivas College of Pharmacy, Valachil, Mangalore, Karnataka State, India

*Corresponding Author: Edwin Dias, Department of Paediatrics, Srinivas Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, India.

Received: November 08, 2024; Published: November 19, 2024

Abstract

Headaches represent a prevalent and often debilitating health concern, classified primarily into migraines, tension-type headaches (TTH), and cluster headaches (CH). This review synthesizes current pharmacological and non-pharmacological management strategies tailored to these three headache types, highlighting the necessity of personalized treatment based on individual patient characteristics and comorbidities. In migraine management, preventive therapies, including anticonvulsants (such as topiramate), beta-blockers, and antidepressants (notably amitriptyline), are recommended for patients experiencing chronic migraines. Non-pharmacological approaches, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, biofeedback, and acupuncture, have demonstrated efficacy in reducing headache frequency and enhancing quality of life. Additionally, addressing medication overuse headache (MOH) through patient education and the careful tapering of overused medications is essential to optimize treatment outcomes. For TTH, acute treatments typically include simple analgesics like acetaminophen and NSAIDs, with amitriptyline recommended as a first-line preventive option for frequent episodic and chronic cases. Non-pharmacological interventions, such as physical therapy, stress management, and lifestyle modifications, play a crucial role in long-term headache management. CH is characterized by its acute attacks, effectively treated with triptans and high-flow oxygen therapy, while transitional management often employs corticosteroids like prednisone. Long-term preventive treatments primarily include verapamil and newer monoclonal antibodies. Emerging therapies, such as non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation and occipital nerve stimulation, are promising adjuncts for patients who do not respond to conventional therapies.

 Keywords: Migraine; Acupuncture; Medication Overuse; Vagus Nerve Stimulation

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Citation

Citation: Edwin Dias., et al. “Headache Disorders: A Systematic Review of Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Therapeutic Approaches”.Acta Scientific Medical Sciences 8.12 (2024): 65-81.

Copyright

Copyright: © 2024 Edwin Dias., et al. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.




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