FP essentials
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Among patients in the emergency department (ED), most severe, sudden-onset headaches are primary, such as migraine or tension-type headache. Only 10% to 15% of patients have serious underlying pathology. However, guidelines for evaluation of patients with severe headache emphasize detection of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) and other cerebrovascular conditions. ⋯ CT or magnetic resonance angiography of the brain that shows multiple focal areas of vasoconstriction is diagnostic of RCVS. Lumbar puncture is indicated for patients with suspected meningitis. The management, follow-up, and prognosis of patients with severe headache depend on the etiology.