Effect of episodic tension-type headache on the health-related quality of life in employees of a Brazilian public hospital

Quality of life in primary headache disorders: A review

BACKGROUND

Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is emerging as an important element of clinical research in primary headache disorders, allowing a measure of the impact of headache on patients' well-being and daily life. A better understanding of this may contribute to improved resource allocations and treatment approaches.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study is to review available data on HRQoL in primary headache disorders and identify any influencing factors.

METHODS

Database searches including MEDLINE, PsycINFO and EMBASE were performed. Studies that investigated HRQoL in patients with primary headache disorders were included and reviewed. Trials that evaluated the efficacy of medications or interventions were excluded.

RESULTS

A total of 80 articles were included in the review. Both physical and emotional/mental aspects of HRQoL were impaired across headache subtypes, although the extent varied depending on headache type. A number of factors influencing HRQoL were also identified.

CONCLUSION

This narrative review suggests that headache, particularly in its chronic form, has a great impact on HRQoL. Clinical practice should not solely focus on pain alleviation but rather adopt routine assessment of HRQoL. Furthermore, identification and management of associated psychological comorbidities, which can significantly influence HRQoL in headache sufferers, are essential for optimal clinical management.

Cefaléia do tipo tensional episódica: avaliação clínica de 50 pacientes

Com o objetivo de estudar os aspectos clínicos, a história familiar e o impacto da dor nas atividades laborativas, foi conduzido estudo de série de casos de 50 pacientes portadores de cefaléia do tipo tensional episódica (CTTE). Foram avaliados 40 mulheres e 10 homens, com idade média de 30 (±12) anos. Dor constrictiva esteve presente em 40 pacientes (80%). O enjôo foi o principal fenômeno acompanhante (20%). A dor bilateral predominou; entretanto, a localização unilateral também esteve presente (10%). Embora classicamente descrita como uma dor leve, observou-se que a CTTE pode se manifestar como crises de forte intensidade (16%). A história familiar foi positiva em 12 pacientes (24%). O impacto nas atividades laborativas foi detectado em 14% da amostra. Os achados a respeito das características da dor estão de acordo com a literatura. O impacto representado pela CTTE a nível individual e na sociedade deve, entretanto, ser reconsiderado.

Tension-type headache: Classification and diagnosis

Tension-type headache (TTH) is the most prevalent form of primary headache in the general population. In this article, the diagnostic challenges of TTH are discussed. The classification of these headaches according to the second edition of the International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD-2) and the main differences between the ICHD-2 and the first edition of the classification (ICHD-1, 1988) are discussed. The typical features of TTH also are highlighted. Finally, the differential diagnosis of episodic and chronic TTH, emphasizing the situations more likely to raise doubts, is discussed. The wide clinical spectrum of TTH frequently challenges the physician's diagnostic acumen. A structured approach to the patient and a better comprehension of this variability of presentation should translate into better quality of care and a more specific diagnosis for TTH sufferers.