Cluster Headache
Medical Questions » Illnesses » Cluster Headache
| Name: Cluster Headache |
| Also known as: |
| Severe, intermittent one-sided headaches that occur in clusters lasting from days to weeks. |
Causes of Cluster Headache
Attacks may be triggered by alcohol, stress, exercise, certain foods and glare. More common in middle-aged men. |
Symptoms of Cluster Headache
Severe, one-sided pain around the eye that occurs daily for weeks and then subsides, only to flare again months later. May be quite disabling, and are often accompanied by a congested nostril on the same side as the headache, a watery red eye and weakness on the affected side of the face. |
Tests for Cluster Headache
No specific diagnostic tests available. |
Treatment for Cluster Headache
Once present, these headaches are very difficult to control. Normally a matter of trial and error to determine the most effective regime in any individual. The inhalation of pure oxygen may settle an otherwise intractable attack in a few minutes. Prevention is far better than cure, and medications such as propranolol, ergotamine, lithium and amitriptyline can be used on a regular basis to prevent further attacks. In severe cases prednisone is prescribed.
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Complications of Cluster Headache of its treatment
None significant. |
Likely Outcome of Cluster Headache
Prevention is reasonably successful, but treatment is difficult. |
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