Cluster headache
About Cluster headache
Severe headaches characterized by pain on one side of the head, or around one eye. They often recur at the same time each day, and can last for several days or weeks, with weeks or months of remission. 90% of those affected are males. Some people who have cluster headaches are heavy smokers. Alcohol use, bright light, stress, or certain foods may trigger an attack.Symptoms
Severe headache, pain around or behind the eye, nausea, vomiting, photophobia (light increases the pain), eye redness, eye tearing, runny nose (rhinorrhea), facial redness.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. Additional tests may include: CT scan or MRI to rule out other causes of headaches.Common tests: CT Scan, MRI.
OTC sleep aids and supportive treatments
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
Avoidance of any headache triggers. Drugs to relieve the pain during an acute episode including: oxygen, triptan medications (such as sumatriptan or zolmitriptan), octreotide, intranasal lidocaine or an oral ergot medication (such as dihydroergotamine). Drugs to prevent recurrence of headaches include verapamil, glucocorticoids, lithium, topiramate, or methysergide.Medical specialties
Internal Medicine · Neurology · Pediatrics · Family Practice · Pediatric Neurology
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Cluster headache.