Easing Cluster Headaches through Distinctive Approach

Cluster headaches are classified into the following different types:

Episodic Cluster Headaches:

• Duration: Last anywhere between a week and a year
• Remission period: Followed by a remission period of a month or more

Chronic Cluster Headaches:

• Duration: Last persistently for more than a year
• Remission period: Followed by a shorter remission period of less than a month

Cluster headaches symptoms can be mistaken for regular headaches or migraines.

• They are abrupt and may be accompanied by visual disturbances & increased light sensitivity.
• In the majority of cases, the onsets occur a few hours after falling asleep, but they can also happen while awake.
• The pain is localized to one side of the head and described as burning or piercing, worsening within 5 to 10 minutes.

Other associated symptoms include:

• Drooped eyelids
• Teary and red eyes
• Swollen bags under the eyes
• Runny/stuffy nose
• Feeling nauseated
• Restlessness
   

Cluster headaches occur due to the dilation of blood vessels supplying oxygenated blood to the face and brain. This puts strain on the trigeminal nerve, responsible for transmitting signals from the face to the brain. The exact cause of the dilation is unknown but may be linked to hypothalamus abnormalities. Additionally, the sudden secretion of chemicals like serotonin and histamine is also believed to contribute to cluster headaches.

Cluster headaches do not have a specific diagnostic test. Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive physical and neurological examination to assess symptoms. Doctors may use brain imaging, such as MRI or CT scans, to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms.

At IBS Hospital, we consider surgery as a last resort and recommend it only when patients do not respond to medication. Our treatment approach for cluster headaches focuses on relieving pain and reducing associated symptoms. This includes:

• Pain medication, such as Triptan medications, DHE, and Capsaicin cream, to help manage pain.
• Inhalation of 100 percent pure oxygen to provide relief during cluster headache attacks.
• Preventive medication, like blood pressure medication and steroids, to control risk factors and reduce nerve-related symptoms.

Our team is dedicated to providing personalized care and finding the most effective treatment options for cluster headaches to improve patients’ quality of life.