CT before LP?

If you think CT will show a cause for the headache, do a CT If a CT is indicated for other reasons (depressed conscious level, focal neurology), do a CT If a GCS 15 patient is to undergo LP for suspected (or to rule out) meningitis, and they have a normal neurological exam (including fundi), […]

A systematic approach to the interpretation of Computed Tomography of the head

Meningitis

CNS infection should be considered in all patients with a headache, neck stiffness, fever, altered sensorium, or diffuse or focal neurological findings. pneumoniae is one of the two leading causes of bacterial meningitis in adults. Mortality from S. pneumoniae is 30%. pay close attention to cranial nerves 2, 3, 4, and 6 Altered mental status […]

Approach to Headaches

Bad Headaches

A thunderclap headache (TCH) has been defined as a “headache that reaches 7 (out of 10) or more in intensity within less than one minute.”

Acute Migraine Treatment

Headaches

The main goals of ED migraine therapy are (in order)…

The main goals of ED migraine therapy are (in order): Make the symptoms go away Restore normal function Align the patient for outpatient follow up Metoclopramide is quite effective at accomplishing these 3 goals.