Neurologic Function Case Study

Pain and Neurologic Syndromes

Instructions 
For this case study, you will create a case related to the Neurological Functions.

Download this document, type your answers, and include references (including in-text citations per item). Then, upload it to this assignment page. 

Neurological Function

Part 1:
Compare and contrast the 3 conditions in one of the charts below:

PAIN SYNDROME
Migraine Headaches Tension Headaches Meningitis
Risk Factors
Pathophysiology
Clinical Manifestations

OR

NEUROLOGIC SYNDROME
Dementia Depression Anxiety
Risk Factors
Pathophysiology
Clinical Manifestations

Part 2:
Choose a pain or neurologic syndrome to explore. You can also choose a diagnosis not listed (that coincides with your advanced practice specialty) as long as it relates to the neurological function.

Present a hypothetical case that includes the following:

  1. Vital information about a person who might be predisposed to this condition (I.e., a person who may have risk factors for this condition).
  2. The pathophysiology of the disease, including clinical manifestations.
  3. Which diagnostic tests you’d recommend and a rationale for the one(s) you choose.
  4. How this condition compares to other differentials.
  5. The evidence-based recommendations from the AHRQ Guidelines or guidelines recommended from a professional organization. Based on these recommendations, discuss how to manage the condition best.
  6. A patient safety issue that could be associated with the condition presented in this case.

Full Answer Section

    Treatment Treatment for migraine headaches, tension headaches, and meningitis varies depending on the specific condition and its severity. Migraine Headaches Treatment for migraine headaches typically involves a combination of over-the-counter and prescription medications. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, can be used to relieve mild to moderate migraine pain. Prescription medications, such as triptans and ergotamines, can be used to treat more severe migraine pain. Tension Headaches Treatment for tension headaches typically involves over-the-counter pain relievers and relaxation techniques. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, can be used to relieve tension headache pain. Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation, can help to reduce stress and muscle tension. Meningitis Treatment for meningitis typically involves hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics. The specific type of antibiotic used depends on the type of infectious agent that is causing the meningitis. Prevention There is no cure for migraine headaches, but there are things that people can do to help prevent them. These things include avoiding triggers, getting regular exercise, and getting enough sleep. There is no cure for tension headaches, but there are things that people can do to help prevent them. These things include reducing stress, maintaining good posture, and avoiding caffeine withdrawal. There are vaccines available that can help to prevent some types of meningitis, such as bacterial meningitis. It is important to talk to your doctor about which vaccines are recommended for you and your family.  

Sample Answer

   
Characteristic Migraine Headache Tension Headache Meningitis
Risk Factors Family history of migraines, female, certain foods and drinks (e.g., chocolate, alcohol, caffeine), stress, lack of sleep, hormonal changes (e.g., menstruation, menopause) Stress, muscle tension, anxiety, depression, caffeine withdrawal, poor posture Viral infection (e.g., enteroviruses, mumps virus), bacterial infection (e.g., Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis), head trauma
Pathophysiology The exact pathophysiology of migraines is not fully understood, but it is thought to involve a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and neurovascular factors. Migraine headaches are often triggered by a combination of factors, such as stress, lack of sleep, and certain foods and drinks. These triggers are thought to set off a cascade of events that leads to the release of inflammatory chemicals in the brain. These chemicals can cause a number of changes in the brain, including vasodilation (widening of blood vessels), increased blood flow, and activation of pain-sensitive neurons. Tension headaches are thought to be caused by muscle tension in the head and neck. This tension can be caused by a number of factors, such as stress, anxiety, and poor posture. Meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges, the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis can be caused by a variety of infectious agents, including viruses and bacteria. The most common type of meningitis in children and adolescents is viral meningitis, which is usually caused by enteroviruses. Bacterial meningitis is less common, but it is more serious and can be fatal if not treated promptly.
Clinical Manifestations Migraine headaches are typically characterized by a throbbing or pounding headache on one or both sides of the head. The headache may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, and blurred vision. Migraine headaches can last for hours or even days. Tension headaches are typically characterized by a dull, aching pain on both sides of the head. The pain is often described as a "tight band" around the forehead. Tension headaches can be accompanied by other symptoms, such as neck pain, shoulder pain, and fatigue. Tension headaches can last for minutes, hours, or even days. Meningitis can cause a variety of symptoms, including headache, fever, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. In severe cases, meningitis can lead to seizures, coma, and death.