In the context of acute severe headaches, what distinguishes the headache in temporal arteritis from other types?
Group of answer choices
- It occurs suddenly and is the worst headache of the patient’s life.
- It is associated with fever, stiff neck, and a decreased level of consciousness.
- It is typically throbbing, initially unilateral in the temporal area, and may become bilateral.
- It is often associated with neurological deficits and an altered level of consciousness.
The correct answer is:
It is typically throbbing, initially unilateral in the temporal area, and may become bilateral.
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Explanation:
Temporal arteritis (also known as giant cell arteritis) is a vasculitis that affects medium and large arteries, typically in older adults (usually over age 50). The classic presentation includes:
- Throbbing headache localized to the temporal region
- Unilateral onset, often becoming bilateral
- Scalp tenderness (especially when combing hair)
- Jaw claudication (pain while chewing)
- Visual disturbances (e.g., transient or permanent vision loss)
- Elevated ESR/CRP
Why the other options are incorrect:
“Suddenly and worst headache of life” → Suggests subarachnoid hemorrhage
“Associated with fever, stiff neck, decreased consciousness” → Suggests meningitis
“Neurological deficits and altered consciousness” → Suggests stroke or mass lesion
Would you like a quick comparison chart of headache types and their key distinguishing features?
