Cluster Headaches

What is a cluster headache?

Cluster headaches are rare when compared to other types of headaches. The pain they produce is severe and tends to recur in the same way each time. They occur in groups, or clusters, and each attack lasts about 1 to 3 hours on average. The frequency of occurrence may range from every other day to multiple times a day. Cluster periods are followed by remissions that may last months or years.

Males are affected by cluster headaches more than females and they typically start around age 30.

What causes cluster headaches?

Researchers do not know exactly what causes cluster headaches. They seem to be related to the sudden release of histamine or serotonin in the body.

The following may trigger cluster headaches:

• Alcohol use or smoking cigarettes
• Change to a high altitude
• Bright light
• Exercise or exertion
• Heat, either weather or a bath
• Foods that contain nitrates, such as bacon or lunch meat
• Cocaine use

What are the symptoms of cluster headaches?

These are common symptoms of a cluster headache:

• Sudden onset of pain, generally around or behind the eye
• Pain builds to a peak in about 10 to 15 minutes
• Restlessness or agitation
• Red or watering eyes
• Nasal congestion
• Sweating on the forehead
• Eyelid drooping or swelling

The symptoms of a cluster headache may look like other conditions or medical problems. Always see your doctor for a diagnosis.

How are cluster headaches diagnosed?

Cluster headaches are diagnosed based on your history of a pattern of recurrent bouts of near-daily headache attacks lasting for days, weeks, or months.