It is worthwhile to understand about cluster headaches since they are one of the primary headache types. They can be so painful that cluster headaches are sometimes referred to as "suicide headaches." Any head pain with a nickname that severe deserves our attention.
What Are Cluster Headaches?
Cluster headaches are rare but severely painful headaches that occur repeatedly over a long period of time. So-called "cluster periods" typically last from 4 to 8 weeks, but can persist for up to 12 weeks. They are one of the few headache types that affect men more than women, and can be brought on by a variety of triggers, including certain medications, smoking, alcohol, and changes in sleep patterns.
Symptoms of Cluster Headaches
The symptoms of cluster headaches appear abruptly and are quite severe. The pain is located behind or around one of the eyes, and may affect the temple on that same side as well. The pain will last between 15 minutes and 3 hours and may be accompanied by redness of the eye or tearing, nasal congestion or runny nose, swelling of the eyelid, forehead or facial sweating, or restlessness or agitation. Pain and other symptoms occur on the same side of the head or face.
Treating and Preventing Cluster Headaches
The basic treatment of an acute cluster headache involves high doses of oxygen administered through a tube in the nose. Imitrex (sumatriptan) may be used in addition to or in place of oxygen in some cases.
In people that are candidates for preventative treatment, verapamil is the treatment of choice. Your health care provider may elect to use a different medication depending upon your individual symptoms and health conditions.
Although the exact triggers for cluster headaches aren't completely known, avoiding potential triggers may prove to be beneficial. Strategies include quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, and learning to relax as a way to reduce stress.
As always, discuss your questions and concerns with your health care provider before initiating treatment or lifestyle changes.
Sources:
Beck E, Sieber WJ, Trejo R. "Management of cluster headache." Am Fam Physician. 2005 Feb 15;71(4):717-24.
"Cluster Headaches." American Academy of Family Physicians, Familydoctor.org. Accessed January 25, 2010. http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/common/brain/disorders/035.html
