Dr. M.J. Bazos, MD
Patient Handout
HEADACHE,
CLUSTER
About Your
Diagnosis
Cluster headaches, although uncommon, are one of
the more severe forms of head pain. They occur more commonly in men and are
characterized by severe and constant pain deep in and around the eye on the
affected side. The pain is generally intense and nonthrobbing, and often
radiates into the forehead, temple, and cheek. The pain may leave as rapidly as
it began or fade away gradually. Almost always the same eye is affected. The
exact cause of cluster headaches is
unknown.Living With Your
DiagnosisThese headaches occur in
“clusters.” The cluster usually begins in the spring or fall, and
each cluster lasts approximately 2–3 months. The headaches usually occur
nightly after 1–2 hours of sleep or several times during the day and
night. Each attack lasts nearly an hour. Often a distinct pattern is detectable,
with headaches recurring with remarkable accuracy at the same time each day for
a period of 6–12 weeks, followed by complete freedom from headaches for
many months or years. In addition to the headache, some individuals have
watering eyes, drooping eyelids, or visual problems on the side of the
headache.TreatmentThere
are many treatment options for cluster headaches. Once the disorder is
diagnosed, patients may be started on medication to prevent further headache
attacks. Calcium channel blocking medications and ergotamine tartrate are often
the firstline medications for prevention. Intranasal lidocaine or subcutaneous
sumatriptan can be used to abort an attack. Methysergide or predisone may also
be effective for cluster headaches. For breakthrough headaches, headaches that
occur despite being on a preventive medication, the most effective treatment is
inhaling pure oxygen. If breakthrough headaches are frequent, your doctor may
prescribe oxygen therapy for use at home. If attacks are less frequent, there
are oral medications that are also effective and more convenient than pure
oxygen.The
DOs• Maintain an adequate and
regular sleep schedule.• Take your
medications as prescribed.• If you
are taking a prescription drug, check with your doctor before using
over-the-counter pain relief
medications.• Keep your follow-up
appointments for reassessment.The
DON’Ts• Don’t use
alcohol and tobacco.• Avoid exposure
to oil-based solvents, high altitude, and strenuous exercise because they may
precipitate an attack.When to Call
Your Doctor• If you have a fever
with your headache.• If you have a
headache that is more severe than your usual headache and is resistant to the
medication that is normally effective for
you.• If you have any weakness,
numbness, or tingling in your arms or
legs.• If you have difficulty
walking or talking.• If you have
severe vomiting that cannot be controlled with your
medication.• If you have any
problems associated with your
medication.Websites:http://www.healthpartners.com/group/neuro/ghineuro.htmhttp://www.headaches.org