hodesmerter

Hodesmerter (Norwegian for "headaches") refer to pain anywhere in the region of the head or upper neck. They range from mild and transient discomfort to severe, disabling attacks. Headaches are classified as primary (occurring as the main disorder) or secondary (caused by another condition).

Common primary types include tension-type headache, migraine, and cluster headache. Tension-type headache typically causes bilateral, pressing pain of mild to moderate intensity. Migraine involves recurrent, often unilateral throbbing pain with nausea, photophobia or phonophobia, and sometimes aura. Cluster headache produces severe, strictly unilateral pain around the eye with autonomic symptoms. Secondary headaches can result from infection, head injury, vascular disorders, medication overuse, dental or sinus disease, and systemic illness.

Diagnosis is based on medical history and physical and neurological examination. Red flags prompting urgent evaluation include sudden “worst-ever” headache, focal neurological deficits, altered consciousness, fever with neck stiffness, recent head trauma, or a history of cancer or immunosuppression. Imaging or laboratory tests are used selectively to investigate suspected secondary causes.

Management depends on type and severity. Acute treatment may include analgesics, antiemetics, triptans or oxygen for cluster episodes. Preventive strategies involve medications for frequent or severe attacks, lifestyle changes (sleep, hydration, diet, stress management), and addressing medication overuse. Prognosis varies with cause; many primary headaches can be managed effectively but may recur. Medical consultation is recommended for new, severe, or changing headache patterns.