Cluster Headaches Are a Very Painful Type of Headache and Are Treated By Several Kinds of Medications

In the past, there have been several approaches to treating cluster headaches. A mild electrical stimulator, an implanted vagal nerve stimulator, and an injectable antibody that targets the calcitonin gene-related peptide are all options approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, many patients have had difficulty accessing these treatments due to insurance. To overcome this challenge, providers must educate both their patients and their insurance companies about cluster headaches and provide the best possible care.

To diagnose cluster headaches, doctors must conduct a thorough physical exam and a comprehensive history of the patient's symptoms. If the pain is intense, a CT scan or MRI may be necessary to rule out other causes. When these tests are negative, a doctor will most likely refer the patient to a headache specialist. Although cluster head pain is rare, it is important to understand that it is hereditary. In fact, as with many types of headaches, cluster headache is much more common in men than in women.

If the headache persists, a doctor may prescribe a medicine to treat it. While there are no medications specifically designed for cluster headaches, a face mask with high-flow oxygen can help end the attack and help the patient sleep. In severe cases, a physician may use an injection of dihydroergotamine to combat the pain. Fortunately, most sufferers can tolerate the treatment without significant side effects. The treatment for cluster headache can include a combination of different approaches, so it is important to understand the options that are available.

In severe cases, treatment for cluster headaches may be effective. A preventative regimen can reduce the frequency and severity of cluster attacks. New drugs are currently in development that targets the underlying causes of this condition. In the meantime, verapamil, a drug prescribed for migraine, can be useful for reducing the intensity and frequency of cluster headaches. This treatment may have risks for the heart, so patients with underlying conditions need to be monitored closely.

The main symptom of cluster headache is a sharp, piercing pain that spreads from the eye to the temple and may last 15 to 20 minutes. Some people experience general allodynia, which is an increase in the feeling of general sensitivity. These people should not be rushed or ignored. A good way to treat cluster headaches is to lay flat and rest. The patient should be aware of any pain and avoid straining their eyes.

Medications for cluster headaches are not effective in all cases. Symptoms can occur in any part of the brain, and they can be severe. In some cases, a cluster headache can last up to 180 minutes, but other treatments may be more effective. The pain can also last for longer than one hour. In addition to medication, some people may experience a remission of pain after several weeks of treatment. These medications can help alleviate the pain and prevent it from returning.