Cluster headache is a type of severe, recurring pain that is located on one side of the head. It received its name from the clustering or pattern of frequent headaches that usually occur.
There are two main types of cluster headaches:
Either type of headache may convert to the other type.
The cause of cluster headaches is unknown. It is thought that there is abnormal activation of the area of the brain responsible for regulating temperature, blood pressure, hormone release, and sleep The pain is caused by a combination of widening of the blood vessels and inflammation of the nerves of the face.
Other possible causes include:
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. Risk factors include:
During the headache other symptoms may occur on the affected side, including:
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical and neurological exam. A neurological exam tests the following:
The doctor will ask about the frequency and pattern of your headaches. To help provide answers, keep a diary of:
Tests are sometimes done to rule out other disorders. These tests may include:
Treatment aims to reduce the frequency of headaches and help relieve the pain.
Drugs used to treat migraines often relieve acute attack of cluster headaches. These drugs must be taken at the first sign of a headache.
Drugs used to treat cluster headaches include:
In some cases, the headache does not last long enough for drugs to be beneficial. Sometimes, the drugs just delay an attack, rather than stopping an attack.
Pain killers, especially narcotic drugs, should not be used during an acute attack.
Other medications (usually used in combination) are given on a regular basis to prevent or reduce the frequency of headaches. These drugs include:
Breathing 100% oxygen for 10-15 minutes often relieves cluster headache pain. The oxygen appears to decrease blood flow to the affected area of the brain. People under age 50 who have episodic cluster headaches seem to benefit most from oxygen therapy.
Oxygen therapy can be expensive, though, and there are risks with this therapy.
As a last resort, some doctors may recommend cutting or destroying a facial nerve to eliminate the pain.
To prevent cluster headaches from getting worse, preventive medication may be given. In addition:
RESOURCES:
American Council for Headache Education
http://www.achenet.org/
National Headache Foundation
http://www.headaches.org/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Headache Network
http://www.headachenetwork.ca/
Help for Headaches
http://www.headache-help.org/index.html/
References:
American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: http://www.aap.org .
American Medical Association website. Available at: http://www.ama-assn.org/ .
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Last reviewed January 2009 by J. Thomas Megerian, MD, PhD, FAAP
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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