Coiatal headache

This article discusses the relatively uncommon syndrome of headaches associated with sexual activity, encompassing various types such as sexual headache, benign vascular sexual headache, and (pre)orgasmic headache. It emphasizes the importance of evaluating for potential underlying malignant causes. The article describes the characteristics of these headaches and outlines both acute and preventive treatment strategies.

Clinical Characteristics of Headaches Related to Sexual Activity

These headaches can be primary or secondary to a serious condition. They are often bilateral and located in the occipital or diffuse areas. Importantly, subarachnoid hemorrhage must be ruled out using head CT and lumbar puncture.

Treatment Approaches

For acute therapy of recurrent headaches associated with sexual activity, triptans like sumatriptan or zolmitriptan are advised. Preventive measures include indomethacin taken before sexual activity or daily propranolol.

References

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5. Frese A, et al. Triptans in orgasmic headache. Cephalalgia 2006; 26:1458.