Cluster Headache
Introduction
Anatomy
Causes
Symptoms
A single cluster headache may last from 5 minutes to several hours. They frequently begin at the same time and are more common between 9 PM and 9 AM. They may disrupt sleep as they are more likely to occur during Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep. Episodes of cluster headaches may last from 2 to 12 weeks. Episodic cluster headaches are followed by a headache-free period of at least one month. Chronic cluster headaches can last for years without a headache-free month.
Diagnosis
Treatment
Prevention
• Maintain a regular sleep schedule. Avoid napping.
• Do not smoke or use alcohol.
• Avoid solvents, such as gasoline or oil-based paints. These products can trigger a headache.
• Avoid glare and bright lights.
• Avoid or be cautious of high altitudes, the reduced oxygen can trigger cluster headaches.
Am I at Risk
Cluster headaches occur more frequently in men than in women. They most commonly occur between the ages of 20 and 40.
Risk factors or triggers for cluster headache:
• Heavy alcohol drinking
• Smoking
• Poor sleep patterns or sleep apnea
• Hormonal changes
Advancements

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This information is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be used in place of an individual consultation or examination or replace the advice of your health care professional and should not be relied upon to determine diagnosis or course of treatment.
The iHealthSpot patient education library was written collaboratively by the iHealthSpot editorial team which includes Senior Medical Authors Dr. Mary Car-Blanchard, OTD/OTR/L and Valerie K. Clark, and the following editorial advisors: Steve Meadows, MD, Ernie F. Soto, DDS, Ronald J. Glatzer, MD, Jonathan Rosenberg, MD, Christopher M. Nolte, MD, David Applebaum, MD, Jonathan M. Tarrash, MD, and Paula Soto, RN/BSN. This content complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information. The library commenced development on September 1, 2005 with the latest update/addition on February 16, 2022. For information on iHealthSpot’s other services including medical website design, visit www.iHealthSpot.com.
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