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Hemicrania continua

A continuous headache, that is usually felt on one side of the face or head.

a rare process that varies in severity.

Patients describe the presence of a dull ache or throb that is int2242upted by periods of pain that is sharper, stabbing and jolting.

Headache attacks usually happen three to five times a day.

Sometimes these headaches persist for months or years, but the pain may go away for weeks or months only to return.

For the diagnosis of hemicrania continua to be made the pain must be present, without switching sides or disappearing even briefly, for at least three months.

Cause isvunknown, and the process affects women more often than men.

Treatment consists of anti-inflammatory medications given on a daily basis and will provide marked relief.

May be associated with nausea, vomiting, noise or light aversion, throbbing headaches, epistaxis nasal congestion, tearing, eye irritation, small pupils, drooping eyelids, diaphoresis-many symptoms shared with migraine and cluster headaches making diagnosis difficult.

The process may be precipitated by physical exertion, fatigue, alcohol intake, caffeine, neck pressure, ne k rotation or flexing.

Treatment is with anti-inflammatory medications, and, indomethacin is particularly effective.

Tricyclic antidepressants are also useful as a preventive measure.

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