This headache comes on suddenly and happens daily. They generally occur in patients who haven’t had headaches before. They are unique as they are constant and persistent from onset. People often remember the exact onset of the headache. The average age of onset is around 35yrs of age. The cause is not fully understood, and there are some reports that it can be triggered by certain events, for example viral illness. There is also a potential link to mental health conditions such as anxiety.
They are described commonly as pressure-like or tightening and can fluctuate (improve or worsen) in intensities, duration and lasts longer than 3 months. They commonly also have features of chronic migraine or chronic tension type headaches. Other conditions can mimic NDPH, these include bleeding or brain tumours, and therefore these should be excluded before making a diagnosis. Investigations may include imaging of the brain and sometimes lumbar punctures.
This headache can be more resistant to treatment. There is no specific evidence-based treatment for NDPH and it is often treated like the headache it resembles. Nerve blocks can also be considered. Most adult patients will have persistent headaches, although abundant 15% will remit (improve) and 8% will have a type that comes and goes.
Most adult patients will have persistent headaches, although abundant 15% will remit (improve) and 8% will have a type that comes and goes.
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