Headaches in general medical practice

Abstract

The bulk of patients with primary headaches – HA (cephalalgias) are observed in primary care. The optimal diagnostic algorithm implies the exclusion of potentially dangerous causes of HA and secondary cephalalgias requiring specific treatment. Verification of the form of primary HA is carried out clinically, does not require additional diagnostic methods and is based on the use of the criteria of the International Classification of Headache Disorders. Among all cephalalgias in general clinical practice, the vast majority of cases are represented by four forms: migraine, tension type headache, cluster headache, and medication overuse headache. The complex application of modern methods of pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment with the use of preventive strategies ensures high efficiency in the management of patients with HA.