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Chapter 2, Episode 9: What is Post-Traumatic Headache?

Published: September 14, 2026

TRANSCRIPT

This content has been medically reviewed by Dr. Reena Rastogi.

Post-traumatic headache is a secondary headache that develops after an injury or trauma to the head. For some people, the headache goes away in a few days. For others, it can last for months or longer.

Post-traumatic headache is diagnosed using specific criteria.1 A new headache must start within seven days of the head or neck injury, or within seven days of when the person can report symptoms if they had been unconscious.1

Post-traumatic headache can be classified as acute, meaning it lasts less than three months, or persistent, meaning it lasts three months or longer.1 It often begins after a mild traumatic brain injury, also called a concussion, but can occur after a moderate or severe traumatic brain injury.

Post-traumatic headache most often resembles migraine or tension-type headache.1,2,3

People may experience symptoms similar to migraine, including:

  • Moderate to severe head pain, often on one side
  • Throbbing or pulsating pain
  • Pain that worsens with movement
  • Nausea and/or vomiting or
  • Sensitivity to light and sound

Others may experience symptoms similar to tension-type headache, such as:

  • Pain on both sides of the head
  • Pressing or tightening pain
  • Mild or moderate intensity or
  • Tenderness in the scalp, neck, or shoulders

Some people experience a combination of migraine and tension-type symptoms. 

People with a history of migraine or another headache disorder may experience a worsening of their pre-existing headaches after head trauma.4 A pre-existing headache disorder can also increase the risk of developing post-traumatic headache.5

While headache is common after a head injury, there are other symptoms that may indicate a more serious condition requiring immediate medical attention, such as:6

  • Worsening headache
  • Repeated vomiting
  • Weakness or numbness
  • Slurred speech
  • Increasing confusion or
  • Seizures

Currently, there are no FDA-approved treatments for post-traumatic headache. All treatments are considered “off-label,” and no single option works for everyone. Healthcare providers typically choose a treatment based on whether the symptoms are more similar to tension-type headache or migraine.7

Experts recommend an individualized approach, which may include:7,8,9,10,11

  • Acute treatments such as acetaminophen, NSAIDs, triptans, or anti-nausea medications such as metoclopramide. 
  • Preventive treatments such as vitamins or supplements, antidepressants, antihypertensives, antiseizure medications, CGRP monoclonal antibodies, gepants, onabotulinumtoxinA, neuromodulation devices, or behavioral therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy. 

Preventing medication overuse headache is important.* It can occur when pain relievers are used too frequently. Pain medications should be limited to 10 to 15 days per month unless otherwise recommended by a physician.12

Working with a multidisciplinary care team, often including neurology, physical therapy, psychology, and primary care, may be the most helpful approach for managing symptoms.

Recovery from post-traumatic headache can take time. Symptoms may gradually improve, but regular follow-up with your healthcare provider is important to adjust treatment as needed. With the right diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan, post-traumatic headache can often be managed effectively.

*Also known as medication adaptation headache or rebound headache.

References

  1. https://ichd-3.org/5-headache-attributed-to-trauma-or-injury-to-the-head-andor-neck/
  2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32102546/
  3. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s10194-020-01202-6
  4. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12535728/
  5. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10342432/
  6. https://www.cdc.gov/traumatic-brain-injury/signs-symptoms/index.html
  7. https://practicalneurology.com/diseases-diagnoses/headache-pain/posttraumatic-headache-a-comprehensive-approach/32130/
  8. https://headachejournal.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/head.14795
  9. https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2025.08.11.25332976v1.full
  10. https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/12/13/4233
  11. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11916-023-01199-y
  12. https://ichd-3.org/8-headache-attributed-to-a-substance-or-its-withdrawal/8-2-medication-overuse-headache-moh/

*The contents of this video are intended for general informational purposes only and do not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. AMD does not recommend or endorse any treatment, products, or procedures mentioned. Reliance on any information provided by this content is solely at your own risk.