Differential Diagnosis for Ed Cocktail Migraine
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Migraine with aura: This is the most likely diagnosis given the term "migraine" in the question. The presence of an "ed cocktail" may imply a treatment approach, but the primary condition being treated appears to be migraine.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Tension headache: Although less specific, tension headaches are common and could be considered if the "ed cocktail" refers to a treatment that might be used for various headache types.
- Cluster headache: Given the severity and potential for specific treatments, cluster headaches could be a consideration, especially if the "ed cocktail" implies an emergency department (ED) treatment protocol.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Subarachnoid hemorrhage: This is a critical diagnosis to consider in any patient presenting with a severe headache, as it is a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention.
- Cervical artery dissection: This condition can present with headache and is a significant cause of stroke in younger patients, making it crucial not to miss.
- Temporal arteritis: Particularly in older adults, temporal arteritis can cause severe headaches and requires prompt treatment to prevent complications like vision loss.
- Rare diagnoses
- Hemicrania continua: A rare headache disorder characterized by continuous, one-sided headache with episodes of increased severity.
- Trigeminal neuralgia: While not typically described as a migraine, it can cause severe, sudden pain and might be considered in a differential for severe headache disorders.
- Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH): Also known as pseudotumor cerebri, this condition can cause headaches and requires specific diagnostic tests for identification.