Secondary Cough Headache: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of a secondary cough headache?

A secondary cough headache, also known as a cough headache, typically occurs in response to coughing or straining. The symptoms include:

• Headache Onset with Coughing: The headache usually begins suddenly during or immediately after coughing, sneezing, or other activities that involve straining.
• Sharp or Stabbing Pain: The pain is often described as sharp, stabbing, or throbbing and is typically located in the back of the head or neck. It can sometimes radiate to other areas, such as the forehead or temples.
• Brief Duration: The headache typically lasts for a short period, often less than 30 minutes. It usually resolves once the coughing or straining stops.
• Bilateral Pain: The pain is often felt on both sides of the head but can be unilateral (on one side).
• Possible Nausea: Some individuals may experience mild nausea along with the headache, though this is less common.
• No Neurological Symptoms: Secondary cough headaches do not usually cause other neurological symptoms such as visual disturbances, weakness, or numbness.

Secondary cough headaches are generally benign but can be concerning if they are persistent, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms. In such cases, it’s important to seek medical evaluation to rule out any underlying conditions or more serious issues.

What are the causes of a secondary cough headache?

A secondary cough headache occurs due to increased pressure in the head and neck caused by coughing or straining. The primary causes include:

• Increased Intracranial Pressure: The pressure from severe or prolonged coughing can increase the pressure within the skull, leading to a headache.
• Intracranial Structural Abnormalities: In some cases, structural abnormalities in the brain, such as a brain tumor, aneurysm, or arteriovenous malformation, can contribute to cough headaches by causing increased intracranial pressure or irritation.
• Cervical Spine Issues: Problems with the cervical spine, such as degenerative disc disease or cervical spondylosis, can lead to tension and pain in the neck and head, exacerbated by coughing or straining.
• Sinusitis: Inflammation or infection of the sinuses can cause headache pain that is triggered or worsened by coughing.
• Increased Abdominal Pressure: Activities that increase abdominal pressure, such as heavy lifting or straining, can contribute to secondary cough headaches by transmitting pressure to the head and neck.
• Head and Neck Disorders: Conditions like temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) or other musculoskeletal issues in the head and neck can be aggravated by coughing, leading to headache pain.
• Primary Headache Disorders: Some people with pre-existing headache disorders, such as migraine headaches or cluster headaches, may find that coughing triggers or exacerbates their headache symptoms.

While secondary cough headaches are often benign, if they are frequent, severe, or associated with other symptoms like visual disturbances, neurological deficits, or persistent symptoms, it’s important to seek medical evaluation to rule out serious underlying conditions.

What is the treatment for a secondary cough headache?

The treatment for a secondary cough headache focuses on managing the underlying cause and alleviating symptoms. Here are some approaches:

• Addressing Underlying Conditions: Treating any underlying medical conditions that contribute to the headache, such as sinusitis or cervical spine issues, is crucial. This may involve medication, physical therapy, or other interventions specific to the condition.
• Managing Coughing: Reducing the frequency and intensity of coughing can help alleviate secondary cough headaches. This might involve treating the cause of the cough, such as a respiratory infection or allergies, with appropriate medications like cough suppressants or expectorants.
• Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or aspirin can help manage headache pain. It’s important to use these medications as directed and to avoid overuse.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Making changes to avoid activities that trigger coughing or straining can help prevent headaches. This might include avoiding heavy lifting, managing stress, and preventing dehydration.
• Physical Therapy: For individuals with cervical spine issues or musculoskeletal problems contributing to headaches, physical therapy may help improve neck posture and reduce tension.
• Headache Management: For those with pre-existing headache disorders, managing these conditions with prescribed medications or lifestyle changes can help reduce the frequency and severity of secondary cough headaches.
• Consultation with a Specialist: If the secondary cough headaches are persistent, severe, or associated with other symptoms, consulting with a healthcare provider or specialist, such as a neurologist, may be necessary to identify and address any serious underlying conditions.

Effective treatment involves a combination of addressing the specific cause of the headache and managing the symptoms to improve quality of life.