Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 5, 2026

A Research Method For Detecting Transient Myocardial Ischemia In Patients With Suspected Acute Coronary Syndrome Using Continuous ST-segment Analysis
18:11

A Research Method For Detecting Transient Myocardial Ischemia In Patients With Suspected Acute Coronary Syndrome Using Continuous ST-segment Analysis

Published on: December 28, 2012

Cardiac cephalalgia: case reports and review

J-H Wei1, H-F Wang

  • 1Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Tungs' Taichung Metro Harbor Hospital, WuChi, Taichung, Taiwan. jaccwei@yahoo.com.tw

Cephalalgia : an International Journal of Headache
|May 29, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Headaches, particularly exertional headaches, can be the sole symptom of acute cardiac ischemia. Prompt diagnosis of cardiac cephalalgia is crucial, especially in patients with atherosclerosis risk factors, to prevent adverse outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Neurology

Background:

  • Diagnosing myocardial infarction and acute coronary syndrome can be challenging, particularly with atypical presentations in emergency departments.
  • Atypical symptoms include shortness of breath, exertional dyspnea, toothache, abdominal pain, back pain, and throat pain.

Observation:

  • Headache, especially exertional headache, as the sole presentation of acute cardiac ischemia is rare, with limited case reports.
  • This study analyzed two patients with cardiac-related headaches and reviewed 32 similar cases from 1966 to the present.

Findings:

  • Cardiac cephalalgia is generally benign but carries potential risks of mortality.
  • Exertional headaches in patients with atherosclerosis risk factors warrant high suspicion for anginal headache.

Implications:

  • Recognizing cardiac cephalalgia is vital for accurate diagnosis and timely intervention in emergency settings.
  • Further investigation for coronary artery disease is recommended for patients presenting with exertional headaches and cardiovascular risk factors.

More Related Videos

Intracoronary Acetylcholine Provocation Testing for Assessment of Coronary Vasomotor Disorders06:39

Intracoronary Acetylcholine Provocation Testing for Assessment of Coronary Vasomotor Disorders

Published on: August 18, 2016

Related Concept Videos

Angina III: Clinical Manifestations and Assessment01:29

Angina III: Clinical Manifestations and Assessment

Angina manifests as chest pain, tightness, or squeezing discomfort typically located behind the breastbone. It can radiate to the neck, jaw, shoulders, and inner aspects of the upper arms, most commonly the left arm. Patients may experience shortness of breath, fatigue, profuse sweating, dizziness, indigestion, heartburn, palpitations, anxiety, and vomiting as accompanying symptoms. This pain often lasts a few minutes and is triggered by physical exertion, emotional stress, heavy meals, or cold...
Angina V: Nursing Management01:20

Angina V: Nursing Management

Angina, a symptom of myocardial ischemia, requires a structured nursing management approach to ensure effective care and prevent complications like myocardial infarction. Comprehensive nursing care involves assessing, diagnosing, planning, implementing interventions, and evaluating outcomes, all tailored to the individual patient's needs.Patient AssessmentNursing assessment begins with a detailed subjective evaluation of symptoms, which typically include chest pain or pressure radiating to the...
Introduction Cardiac Emergencies01:30

Introduction Cardiac Emergencies

Cardiac emergencies are critical situations involving the heart that require immediate medical intervention to prevent severe complications or death. These emergencies often arise from underlying heart conditions that impair the heart's ability to function correctly.Types of Cardiac EmergenciesThe most common types of cardiac emergencies include Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS), myocardial infarction (MI), cardiac arrest, and heart failure.Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)...
Coronary Artery Disease III: Clinical Manifestations01:30

Coronary Artery Disease III: Clinical Manifestations

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is a primary health risk worldwide, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. The condition arises from the buildup of atherosclerotic plaques within the coronary arteries, resulting in diminished blood supply to the heart muscle.The clinical manifestations of CAD vary widely, from asymptomatic stages to severe, life-threatening conditions. Understanding these manifestations is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management.Angina Pectoris: The Warning...
Pericarditis III: Medical Management01:17

Pericarditis III: Medical Management

The primary objectives of managing pericarditis are to determine the underlying cause, provide effective therapy for treatment and symptom relief, and promptly detect signs and symptoms of cardiac tamponade. The following outlines the essential aspects of medical management for pericarditis:ObjectivesDetermine the Cause: Identifying the underlying cause of pericarditis is crucial for targeted treatment. Causes include viral infections, autoimmune diseases, post-cardiac injury syndrome, and...
Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies01:21

Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies

Thoracic, aortic arch and abdominal aneurysms are significant vascular conditions that can present with various clinical manifestations and lead to serious complications. Understanding these manifestations and the appropriate diagnostic studies is essential for effective management and treatment.Thoracic Aortic AneurysmsThoracic aortic aneurysms often remain asymptomatic until they reach a size that impinges on adjacent structures. They typically cause deep, diffuse chest pain that radiates to...