Headaches and Traumatic Brain Injury

De Caro & Kaplen partner Michael V. Kaplen, a three-term president of the Brain Injury Association of New York State, and professorial lecturer at law, teaching a course in brain injury law at the George Washington University Law School, discusses the relationship between headaches and traumatic brain injury.

What is the relationship between headaches and traumatic brain injury?

• Headaches are a common issue, often after traumatic brain injuries, known as "post-traumatic headaches."
• Headaches are the most reported symptom following concussions, affecting over 80% of concussion victims.
• Over 30% of individuals who have experienced brain trauma report long-lasting headaches that can persist for years.

What signs and symptoms develop because of headaches?

Headaches can severely affect individuals, leading to throbbing pain, nausea, vomiting, light sensitivity (photophobia), and sensitivity to loud noises.

What are the types of headaches?

• There are over 150 types of headaches, with tension headaches, migraines, and sinus headaches being the most common.
• Headaches can indicate life-threatening brain conditions such as brain bleeds, arterial dissections, venous sinus thrombosis during pregnancy, or brain tumors.
• Sudden and severe headaches, often called a "thunderclap headache," should not be taken lightly and require immediate medical attention. It is important to go to the nearest emergency room or call 911.

What can trigger a headache?

Factors including diet, weather changes, hormonal shifts, vision problems, and mental health issues like anxiety can all be triggers for a headache.

Is there any treatment for headaches?

Medications are now available for treating headache disorders. Seeking the guidance of a medical professional is advisable for those experiencing persistent headaches.

About The Author

Michael V. Kaplen represents victims of vehicle collisions, unsafe buildings and construction sites, and medical malpractice, and is a preferred attorney of The Brain Injury Association of America.

Michael is board certified as a Civil Trial Advocate and board certified in medical malpractice litigation. He is a Professorial Lecturer in Law, The George Washington University Law School, The Legal Aspects of Traumatic Brain Injury.

Michael is past chairman of the American Association for Justice (AAJ) Automobile, Highway and Premise Liability Section, past chairman of the AAJ Traumatic Brain Injury Litigation Group, three term president of the Brain Injury Association of New York State served two terms as chair of the New York State Traumatic Brain Injury Services Coordinating Council and vice-president, New York State Academy of Trial Lawyers.

He was invited by President Obama to participate in the White House Healthy Kids & Safe Sports Concussion Summit.

He is admitted to courts in New York, Florida, and Washington, DC. He has been selected as a New York Super Lawyer and recognized by Best Lawyers of America and U.S. News and World Report in personal injury law.