Headache in adults : triage

Headache disorders encompass a range of conditions that can significantly impact the quality of life of sufferers. The prevalence and disability associated with headaches make them a critical concern for healthcare systems globally. Migraines, tension-type headaches, and cluster headaches represent the most common types, each with distinct clinical presentations. Chronic daily headaches, though not officially classified in the International Classification of Headache Disorders, are reported widely and contribute substantially to the global burden of headache disorders. Effective triage and assessment are paramount in managing these conditions, particularly in primary care settings where initial evaluations take place.

Epidemiological Insights:

• The global prevalence of headache disorders among adults is approximately 50%, with a significant proportion experiencing migraines.
• Headaches, including migraines, are most prevalent between the ages of 18 and 65, peaking in individuals aged 25 to 55 years.
• Migraine is notably more common in females, occurring three times as frequently as in males.
• Chronic daily headaches affect 3%-5% of the global population, with a significant portion likely representing chronic migraine cases.
• Cluster headaches, while less common than migraines and tension-type headaches, have a distinct male predominance.

When someone complains of a headache during a triage, especially in a primary care setting via...