Incidence and factors associated with postoperative headache among adult elective surgical patients at the university of gondar comprehensive specialized hospital, northwest Ethiopia, 2022: a prospective follow-up study

Background Postoperative headache is a medical condition that has a strong association with future recurrence and chronic headache, higher morbidity and mortality, extended hospital stays, poor quality of life and high financial burden. Despite, having these consequences, there are limited studies in the study area. Objective This study aimed to assess the incidence and associated factors of postoperative headache among adult elective surgical patients at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital Northwest Ethiopia, April 9 to 20 June 2022. Methods An institution -based follow- up study was conducted from April 9 to June 20, 2022, at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, after ethical approval and 424 patients were included. Postoperative headache was assessed with patient interview and the response was dichotomized as present or absent. Data was collected through chart review and patient interviews using a questionnaire. Data was entered into Epidata 4.6.0 and statistical analysis was performed using stata version 14.01. Descriptive statistics was conducted to summarize patient information and determine the outcome's incidence. Binary logistic regression was conducted to identify factors associated with postoperative headache. Variables with P-value < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results The overall incidence of postoperative headache in the first three postoperative days was 54.3% (228) and the response rate was 99%. Previous history of headache (AOR = 4.83, CI = 2.42 9.73), prolonged fasting (AOR = 2.28, CI = 1.44-3.60), general anesthesia (AOR = 1.96, CI = 1.25-3.07), intraoperative hypotension (AOR = 1.74,CI = 1.06-2.88), being female (AOR = 1.62,CI = 1.06-2.54) and caffeine consumption(AOR = 1.60,CI = 1.02-2.52) were significant factors associated with postoperative headache and most of patients 89(21.2%) had moderate headache. Conclusion and recommendations More than half of patients were suffered from postoperative headache. Use of general anesthesia, having prior history of headache, being female, intraoperative hypotension, caffeine consumption and prolonged preoperative fasting were strongly associated with postoperative headache. The problem needs regular assessment and treatment.