Chronic Tension Headaches

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How does the FAA address chronic tension headaches?

I have had mild CTTH (self diagnosed) for about 6 months but haven't consulted a neurologist or other health professional. Although there is no medical record of my condition, I would like to honestly fill out my next medical app (class 1).

My headaches are mostly an annoyance, I don't take any OTC/prescription medicine for them. No migraines, vertigo, nausea, et cetera. But they do exist and the "have you ever in you life" statement is on the form.

If I see a neurologist to rule out some unknown illness, then am I consequently shooting myself in the foot with the medical process?

I looked at the AME CACI form but it seems to contradict itself, how can someone have chronic headaches with only one episode per month? So does that lead to a special issuance route and what does that entail?

Thanks in advance.
 
Chronic headaches not in need of treatment, and nonvisual and not interfering with flying duties are not a “condition” :)
 
@bbchein Thanks for the response.

IF I consult a health care provider for the headaches then does it become a condition. I’ve never had headaches so even though they aren’t too bothersome they are different than my status quo.

So if I see a neurologist and get an MRI then does the FAA see it asa condition. I’m not a hypochondriac but I usually see a doctor for most changes in my health.
 
See a doctor and get the tests you need. If prescribed medicines, take only FAA approved ones. Seeing a doctor does not change definition of headaches. Report all to your AME.
 
I let it slip during a recent flight physical that I had been experiencing chronic but mild headaches (they went away shortly after). The AME was overly concerned about it. The AME was overly concerned about the scar on my back from a removed cyst. I didn't go back to that AME. Trust Dr. Chien. :)
 
jstro said:
I let it slip during a recent flight physical that I had been experiencing chronic but mild headaches (they went away shortly after). The AME was overly concerned about it. The AME was overly concerned about the scar on my back from a removed cyst. I didn't go back to that AME. Trust Dr. Chien. :)
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Indeed trust dr. chen, but you need a regular AME to trust to do the routine exams.
 
I’m puzzled by the fact that you consider the headaches to be chronic and are considering seeing a neurologist but don’t even take any OTC meds for them. I’d think you’d at least be taking Tylenol or something similar.

I’m also puzzled by the fact that you seem to worry more about your FAA medical than your health.
 
New User said:
How does the FAA address chronic tension headaches?

I have had mild CTTH (self diagnosed) for about 6 months but haven't consulted a neurologist or other health professional. Although there is no medical record of my condition, I would like to honestly fill out my next medical app (class 1).

My headaches are mostly an annoyance, I don't take any OTC/prescription medicine for them. No migraines, vertigo, nausea, et cetera. But they do exist and the "have you ever in you life" statement is on the form.

If I see a neurologist to rule out some unknown illness, then am I consequently shooting myself in the foot with the medical process?

I looked at the AME CACI form but it seems to contradict itself, how can someone have chronic headaches with only one episode per month? So does that lead to a special issuance route and what does that entail?

Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...


Hey go see a doctor who can give you a nerve block shot along the occipital nerves. I had this done and was headache free for nearly 6 months. They don't last forever so I just had mine done again this week. The type of doctor I saw was a Physiatrist.

Tension along the neck and back of head causes headaches, and this type of treatment is very effective.
 
SkyDog58 said:
I’m puzzled by the fact that you consider the headaches to be chronic and are considering seeing a neurologist but don’t even take any OTC meds for them. I’d think you’d at least be taking Tylenol or something similar.

I’m also puzzled by the fact that you seem to worry more about your FAA medical than your health.
Click to expand...

I don't take OTC meds because its bad for you health. The cost/benefit of taking tylenol 2-3 times per week isn't there for me. I'll take the small headache over kidney damage.

I use my medical certificate to support my family. I'll keep the headaches and my 6 figure income vs seeking attention and losing my house.
 
New User said:
I don't take OTC meds because its bad for you health. The cost/benefit of taking tylenol 2-3 times per week isn't there for me. I'll take the small headache over kidney damage.

I use my medical certificate to support my family. I'll keep the headaches and my 6 figure income vs seeking attention and losing my house.
Click to expand...

Yo, New User, I just gave you a potentially life changing suggestion. You’re welcome.
 
New User said:
I don't take OTC meds because its bad for you health. The cost/benefit of taking tylenol 2-3 times per week isn't there for me. I'll take the small headache over kidney damage.

I use my medical certificate to support my family. I'll keep the headaches and my 6 figure income vs seeking attention and losing my house.
Click to expand...

Taking Tylenol or ibuprofen 2-3 times a week will have NO ill affect on your health or wellbeing..
 
FWIW... Many years ago during a routine physical with my PCP I mentioned sometimes getting headaches after running in the heat of the day. He said it was probably due to dehydration (as I suspected) and that was the last time it was ever discussed. Several years later I found out my headache question went into my medical record and was used by a pulmonologist to support an OSA diagnosis.
 
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