Cluster headaches cause pain on one side of the head, behind or around one eye. The pain usually starts near one eye and shoots up to the top of the head on that side. These headaches frequently occur in ""clusters,'' often starting at the same time each day over a period of time. They may also come and go for several days, weeks, or months. Each headache can last from 15 minutes to 2 hours. Cluster headaches occur most often in the spring and fall. They are more common among men than among women.
Causes
The cause is not known.
Signs/Symptoms
The headaches are typically sudden and severe, and may be accompanied by watery eyes or a runny nose. You may feel sweaty, restless, or nauseated. The headaches often start at night and may wake you up.
Care
There is no cure for cluster headaches, but there are ways to help relieve the pain. Prescription medications are available. Some must be taken in a shot, breathed in by mouth, or put in the rectum to get them into the bloodstream quickly.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
If your doctor has prescribed any medicine, take it exactly as directed. Ask your doctor whether it is safe to drive or operate heavy machinery while you are taking this medication.
An attack may be triggered by:
Smoking or drinking alcohol.
Napping in the daytime.
Breathing in solvents, gasoline, or oil-based paints for long periods of time.
Traveling to high-altitude areas (above 5,000 feet) or in airplanes.
When you have a headache, avoid bright lights, alcohol, and stressful situations that cause you to become angry or excited; they can worsen the pain.
Your doctor can recommend preventive medication to take before airplane travel. Using oxygen during the flight may help relieve a headache.
A cold pack to your head may bring relief.
Supervised exercise often helps prevent cluster headaches. Be sure to talk to your doctor, however, before starting an exercise program.
Biofeedback therapy may help reduce the pain. Ask your doctor about this type of program.
Call Your Doctor If...
You have any problem that may be related to the medicine you are taking.
Seek Care Immediately If...
You have a headache that gets worse or lasts more than 2 hours despite treatment.
You develop a high temperature.
You faint or develop weakness, numbness, double vision, difficulty with talking, or neck pain or stiffness.