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Idiopathic intracranial hypertension headache

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Abstract

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is a disorder of increased intracranial pressure that may have papilledema with normal imaging study results. Headache is the most frequent symptom. Although the headache characteristics are indistinguishable from the symptoms of migraine headache, accompanying symptoms of increased intracranial pressure, such as pulsatile tinnitus, transient visual obscurations, and radicular neck pain, may aid in the diagnosis. Magnetic resonance imaging, including venography, is essential for the diagnosis of the primary idiopathic intracranial hypertension. Medical treatment for the headache includes weight loss for obese patients, diuretic therapy, and migraine preventive medications. If medical therapy does not abolish the headache, surgical options should be considered. Because patients with IIH have a poor quality of life, patient education and supportive materials are important.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Neurology, Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Science, John Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, 50 North Medical Drive, 84132, Salt Lake City, UT, USA

    Kathleen B. Digre MD

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  1. Kathleen B. Digre MD
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Digre, K.B. Idiopathic intracranial hypertension headache. Current Science Inc 6, 217–225 (2002). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11916-002-0038-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11916-002-0038-1

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