In cluster headaches, severe pain occurs on one side of the head, usually around or behind the eye. Cluster headaches are rare but very painful headaches that occur in cycles or clusters. Cluster headaches can be so intense that they are sometimes called suicide headaches. They affect 0.1% of the population, and they are more common in men than women.
In cluster headache, abnormal activity in the hypothalamus, a part of the brain that controls the body's biological clock, is believed to be the cause.
Alcohol consumption
Smoking
Changes in sleep patterns
Changes in seasons or daylight hours
High altitude
Certain medications or substances, such as nitroglycerin, histamine, or cocaine
Cluster headaches are characterized by sudden and excruciating pain on one side of the head, usually around or behind the eyes. A cluster period can last from 15 minutes to three hours, and the pain may occur several times every day. In addition to the pain, there may be other symptoms such as:
Redness, swelling, tearing, or drooping of the affected eye
On the affected side, a stuffy or runny nose
Face flushing or sweating on the affected side
Anxiety or restlessness
Light or sound sensitivity
There is usually a pattern of remission and recurrence with cluster headaches. The headaches often occur at the same time of day or night during a cluster period, lasting between weeks and months. There are some people who have chronic cluster headaches, which means they do not have remission periods or very short ones, and remission periods can last up to years.
An expert in treating nervous system disorders, a neurologist can diagnose cluster headaches based on the patient's medical history, symptoms, and physical examination. The doctor may order some tests to rule out other possible causes of the pain, such as a brain tumor, aneurysm, or infection.
Tests of the blood: To determine whether the brain or blood vessels are affected by inflammation, infection, or other conditions.
A magnetic field and radio waves are used in an MRI scan to produce detailed images of the brain and blood vessels.
Using X-rays, CT scans produce cross-sectional images of the brain.
An examination under a microscope of a small sample of tissue taken from the affected area is called a biopsy.
Despite the fact that cluster headache cannot be cured, there are treatments that can help reduce the pain, shorten the duration of the attacks, and prevent or decrease the frequency of attacks. Some of these treatments are:
For most people, breathing pure oxygen through a mask can provide relief within 15 minutes. Oxygen therapy has no side effects and is safe.
Injections, nasal sprays, or tablets can be used to administer triptans. They constrict blood vessels and block pain signals in the brain. The medications work quickly, but they may cause nausea, drowsiness, or chest tightness. People with heart disease or high blood pressure should avoid them.
This is an injection of a synthetic version of a hormone that regulates various bodily functions. Octreotide is used to relieve pain by reducing blood flow to the area. It may have some side effects, such as diarrhea and abdominal pain.
Anesthetics: These are medications that numb the nerves and block pain signals. They can be given in nasal sprays or drops. They work quickly, but may have some side effects, such as burning, dryness, or bleeding.
A medication called dihydroergotamine is an injection that constricts blood vessels and reduces inflammation. If given early enough, it may stop an attack. It can also have some side effects, including nausea, vomiting, or muscle cramps. It is not recommended for people with high blood pressure or heart disease.
Medications that prevent or reduce cluster periods are considered preventive medications. A few examples are calcium channel blockers (such as verapamil), lithium (a mood stabilizer), corticosteroids (anti-inflammatory medications), anticonvulsants (such as valproate), and melatonin (a sleep-regulating hormone). It is important to consult a doctor regularly if you experience any side effects, such as dizziness, weight gain, fatigue, or mood changes.
Cluster headaches are caused by nerves or blood vessels that are destroyed or blocked by surgical procedures. Infection, bleeding, or nerve damage can occur with occipital nerve stimulation, radiofrequency ablation, microvascular decompression, and deep brain stimulation. They are usually reserved for people who do not respond well to other treatments or have severe side effects from medications.
Cluster headache can be prevented by avoiding or managing the factors that trigger or worsen the condition. A few examples are:
Consumption of alcohol should be limited
Smoking cessation
Sleeping regularly
Air pressure changes or high altitudes should be avoided
Before taking any medications or substances that may affect the brain or blood vessels, consult your doctor
Monitoring the condition and the effects of the treatments through regular check-ups and blood tests
