Headaches due to neurologic infections and trauma

Headaches due to neurologic infections

Infections of the Central Nervous System (CNS) are extremely serious, many resulting in lifetime reductions in cognitive abilities or neurologic functions. Most demand immediate treatment to minimize the risk of permanent consequences or death. Infections of the brain itself are termed "encephalitis" and infections of the protective covering of the brain and spinal cord are termed "meningitis."

In general, infections caused by bacteria progress more rapidly, are more often fatal and have more long term complications than viral infections. Bacterial meningitis is treated with antibiotics given intravenously, or even into the fluid filled space around the brain. Viral meningitis often does not require treatment directly against the virus, but only medication to relieve the symptoms. Two exceptions are encephalitis caused by Herpes and HIV, which are treated with antiviral agents.

The major symptoms of a CNS infection headache are an increasingly intense global headache and a stiffness of the neck with forward flexion. Fever, confusion and possibly loss of consciousness often accompany CNS infections.

Post-traumatic headaches

Headaches may occur for a prolonged period following head trauma. The trauma may seem very minor, and not be associated with loss of consciousness. The headaches may even begin several days after the head trauma. Associated symptoms include fatigue, decreased concentration or mental ability, sleep disturbances, nausea and many other non-specific complaints. This complex is often termed a "post-concussive syndrome." Symptoms may last days, weeks or even months after a relatively minor trauma.