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Cluster Headache

Medical Questions » 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.
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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