Cluster Headaches: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Some people claim that the excruciating agony of a cluster headache attack is worse than giving birth or even passing a kidney stone. Cluster headache is a very rare condition that affects approximately 1 in 1,000 to 1 in 5,000 persons. It is generally mistaken for migraine, a form of headache disorder that can result in similar severe pain. 

The hallmark of this condition is a very intense type of headache that may occur several times during the day. Some individuals experience attacks all year long (this condition known as chronic cluster headache) while others experience attacks for a few weeks to months (this condition known as episodic cluster headache). The disorder is named so because the headache attacks appear in clusters of time, often at the same time(s) of day. Attacks also happen at the same time every year for people who have episodic cluster headaches.

Such headaches are more common among men than women. They normally appear before the age of 30. Cluster headaches may completely disappear for months or years (a condition known as remission), but they may recur suddenly. Unfortunately, cluster headaches are not accurately diagnosed in many patients. Therefore, the people are left with few and ineffective therapeutic choices. Let’s have a deeper insight into methods to manage the cluster headache at home.

Read Also: How to Cure Headache: Effective Remedies and Prevention Tips

What is Cluster Headache?

Cluster headaches are among the most excruciating headache types. It typically happens in "clusters," which are times when attacks happen frequently. People may be awakened from sleep by cluster headaches. On one side of the head, these headaches induce excruciating pain in or around one eye. The duration of cluster periods might range from a few weeks to several months. After that, the headaches typically go away for a while, perhaps for months or even years.

Cluster headaches are quite uncommon. Pain can be reduced and cluster headache attacks can be shortened with treatment. Additionally, certain medications can lessen cluster headaches.

Read Also: Understanding Cervicogenic Headaches: Symptoms, Causes, And Treatment Options

What are the Causes of Cluster Headache?

The specific cause of cluster headaches is still unknown to doctors. According to research, these might have something to do with your body producing the following substances close to the trigeminal nerve, which transmits sensations from your face to your brain:

• Histamine: A chemical that helps in generating allergic reactions..
• Serotonin: A chemical that carries impulse messages between nerve cells.

Moreover, research has shown that cluster headaches can occur when the hypothalamus, a region of the brain, starts malfunctioning. Studies indicate that up to 5% of people may have cluster headaches due to genetic link.

Read Also: Tips On How To Manage And Prevent Frequent Headaches

What are the Types of Cluster Headache?

Cluster headaches can be classified into two categories. The duration of your attacks determines how they vary.

• Episodic cluster headaches: Remission, or a time without pain, usually lasts three months or longer, and such attacks occur over a period of weeks to months.
• Chronic cluster headaches: These attacks have been ongoing for more than a year, with no interruption.

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5 Effective Home Remedies for Cluster Headaches Relief

Currently, there are few practical home therapies for managing cluster headaches and no known cures. There is some limited scientific evidence on home treatments for cluster headaches that may be useful, but they have not been proven in studies. Below, we will have a look at some of the remedies that can help you in managing cluster headaches.

1. Melatonin

Melatonin supplements in dosages ranging from 10 to 25 milligrammes may help in preventing cluster headaches when taken before bedtime. In those with chronic cluster headaches, melatonin therapy may be less helpful.

2. Capsaicin cream

Topical capsaicin cream can help to manage cluster headaches. This analgesic can be gently placed to the inside of your nose with a cotton swab.

3. Deep breathing exercises

Oxygen therapy is a common treatment for cluster headaches. Getting more oxygen into your system can help you relax and manage pain.

4. Magnesium

Low magnesium levels are associated with certain headaches. Therefore, one should consider taking magnesium supplements or integrating foods high in magnesium into your diet.

5. Kudzu extract

Kudzu extract is a herbal supplement derived from the kudzu vine. Some studies suggest that kudzu can help to alleviate cluster headaches.

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Best Treatment Options for Cluster Headaches

Following are the treatments that can help in managing cluster headaches:

• Medications: Medications are prescribed for two purposes. One for preventing the attacks and second for limiting pain during the attacks. 
• Surgery: If medications do not work, the doctor may recommend surgery. To treat your symptoms, your surgeon may implant a neurostimulator device, which sends electrical signals to specific nerves in your head. Your doctor will tell you if surgery is a good option.
• Acupuncture: Acupuncture makes use of tiny needles for pain management. The doctor inserts needles into your skin at numerous spots to alleviate discomfort.
• Physiotherapy: The treatment includes stretching, joint movement, and massage treatments.
• Spinal manipulation: This chiropractic treatment realigns the spine.
• GammaCore: An external vagus nerve stimulator (a portable, noninvasive neurostimulator) is used to mitigate the triggers causing headaches.

Conclusion

Everyone experiences headaches from time to time for numerous reasons. However, cluster headaches are not like other types of headaches. If you get recurring severe headaches, consult your doctor. There are treatments available to help reduce the severity and frequency of severe headaches. If you observe any worsening changes in how you feel while taking medicines, particularly if you experience side effects, contact your doctor.

Discover effective home remedies and treatments for cluster headaches, including tips to manage symptoms and find relief from our experts. Contact IBS Hospital for right guidance from our neurologists today!

People Also Ask

Q1: Can dietary changes help with cluster headaches?

A: Yes, avoiding trigger foods such as processed foods, caffeine, and alcohol may help reduce episodes.

Q2: Are cluster headaches alarming?

A: They are not life-threatening but can significantly impact quality of life. Proper treatment can help manage the condition effectively.

Q3: When should I see a doctor for cluster headaches?

A: If you experience severe, recurring headaches or symptoms that interfere with your daily life, visit a specialist immediately.

Q4: How can cluster headaches be prevented?

A: Cluster headaches are not completely preventable. You can identify and eliminate triggers that cause symptoms, such as smoking or drinking alcohol, to lower your risk of an attack. Triggers vary from person to person, so what you should avoid may not be the same for someone else. If your headaches are caused by sleep apnoea, speak with your doctor about how to manage it or any other underlying health concerns.

By -Dr Aaksha Shukla | January 29, 2025 | 9 Min Read