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Cognitive symptoms in patients with posttraumatic headache
R C Packard1, R Weaver, L P Ham
1Headache Management and Neurology, Pensacola, FL 32503.
Headache
|July 1, 1993
Summary
Cognitive impairment, including memory and concentration difficulties, is a common but often underreported symptom after mild head injury. This study found 65% of patients experienced such issues, with females potentially more susceptible.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neuropsychology
- Trauma Care
Background:
- Mild head injuries frequently result in postconcussion symptoms.
- Cognitive impairment is a potentially underreported symptom following mild head trauma.
- Posttraumatic headache is a common sequela of mild head and neck injuries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of cognitive impairment following mild head injury.
- To identify specific cognitive symptoms experienced by patients with posttraumatic headache.
- To explore potential demographic differences in cognitive impairment after mild head injury.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study design.
- Inclusion of 100 patients evaluated for posttraumatic headache.
- Data collection on reported cognitive symptoms (memory, concentration, thinking).
Main Results:
- 65% of patients reported difficulties with memory, concentration, or thinking.
- Common symptoms included concentration and memory problems, and general thinking difficulties.
- Age was similar between groups with and without cognitive symptoms.
- Females appeared more predisposed to cognitive impairment than males.
Conclusions:
- Cognitive impairment is a significant and prevalent issue after mild head injury.
- Clinicians should routinely assess for cognitive symptoms in patients with posttraumatic headache.
- Further research into gender-based predispositions for cognitive impairment is warranted.