Diagnosing and Managing Headaches

Given the common and difficult diagnoses associated with headaches, the purpose of this course is to educate the healthcare professional about the epidemiology and treatment of the various types of headaches so they may make early and accurate diagnoses, begin effective treatment, and/or refer patients to a specialist when necessary. In addition, members of the public may use this course to enhance their personal knowledge of the subject matter presented.


Upon completion of this course, you should be able to:


1. Illustrate the epidemiology and economic impact of headaches.

2. Demonstrate the pathophysiology of headaches.

3. Recognize the signs and symptoms of headaches, focusing on history and physical exam, and discuss the role of an interpreter in assessing non-English-proficient patients.

4. Identify the appropriate imaging modalities for headaches and their specific indications.

5. Describe the epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of migraine headaches.

6. Differentiate the signs and treatments for cluster and tension headaches.

7. Identify the secondary causes of headaches.

8. Compare and contrast the differences between acute and chronic headaches.

9. Recognize indications for specialist referral.

10. Analyze medico-legal issues surrounding headache diagnosis and management.


This 10-hour continuing education course is available for download for professional development; if continuing education credit is desired, please see instructions included in eBook.