Nokea
A 29-year-old computer programmer comes to the office for evaluation of a headache. The tightening sensation of moderate intensity is located all over the head. It used to last minutes, but this time it has lasted for 5 days. He denies photophobia and nausea. He spends several hours at a computer monitor/keyboard. He has tried over-the-counter medication; it has dulled the pain, but not taken it away. Based on this description, what is the most likely diagnosis?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Tension headache. The key features in the scenario are the bilateral location of the headache, duration of 5 days, absence of nausea and photophobia, and the patient's occupation as a computer programmer. Tension headaches are typically bilateral, mild to moderate in intensity, and often related to stress, posture, and prolonged screen time. The fact that over-the-counter medication only dulled the pain supports the diagnosis of tension headache.
Summary of other choices:
A: Cluster headaches typically have a unilateral location, severe intensity, and are associated with autonomic symptoms like tearing of the eye.
B: Analgesic rebound headaches occur due to overuse of pain medications, leading to worsening of headaches when the medication wears off.
D: Migraine headaches often present with unilateral throbbing pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound, which are not present in this case.