Incidence and Cause of Headache after Cesarean Section

Abstract

We analyzed a series of 657 parturients that had cesarean sections between January 2016 and April 2019 using data from electronic patient records. Of the 118 women who experienced headaches, 42％ had a primary headache, 42％ a post-dural puncture headache, and 15％ a headache due to gestational hypertension/preeclampsia. Contrary to popular belief, headaches other than post-dural puncture headaches may be experienced after cesarian section. Anesthetists should be aware of the importance of carefully observing these headache’s characteristics, associated symptoms, and elevated blood pressure in order to give differential diagnoses and provide appropriate treatment.