[Headache and coronary disease].
Myocardial ischemia usually results in typical anginal chest pain, but cardiac pain can occasionally only be referred to regions outside the thorax. Headache, however, is a very unusual expression of myocardial ischemia. Thus, the correct diagnosis of "cardiac headache" is difficult and requires a high dose of suspicion, but it can be crucial to avoid possible life-threatening events. The type and site of headache are not specific, but an episodic occurrence. A short duration and a relationship with exercise or emotional triggers should alert physicians on the possible cardiac origin of headache. Paradoxical relief and prevention of headache by sublingual nitrates are a strong clue to the diagnosis.
Lanza
G A
GA
Sestito
A
A
D000286:Administration, Sublingual; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000787:Angina Pectoris / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology; D003327:Coronary Disease / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004562:Electrocardiography; D004644:Emotions; D005260:Female; D006261:Headache / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017202:Myocardial Ischemia / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology; D009566:Nitrates / Q000008:administration & dosage; D005082:Physical Exertion; D013997:Time Factors
D009566:Nitrates