Introduction
Cluster headaches are a rare form of primary headache. Cluster headaches do not respond to the usual opioid or barbiturate medications used for migraine and other headaches. The treatment of cluster headache is largely empirical, with the emphasis on drugs that have been shown to be effective in open trials. Understanding is the first step to getting help.
Cluster headaches are a rare form of primary headache.
- Cluster headaches are a rare form of primary headache.
- If you have cluster headaches, you do not have a migraine, tension headache or sinus headache. In fact, cluster headaches are not caused by stress or allergies.
Cluster headaches do not respond to the usual opioid or barbiturate medications used for migraine and other headaches.
Cluster headaches are different from other types of headaches in that they are not the same as migraines and do not respond to the usual opioid or barbiturate medications used for migraine and other headaches.
Migraine is a common chronic condition, but cluster headaches (also called “suicide headaches”) are rare. In fact, only about 1% of people get cluster headaches, making them far more rare than migraines or even epilepsy!
Cluster seizures can have many different symptoms depending on your age and health history. Some people may just have mild shaking or twitching; others may fall into unconsciousness with convulsions (a loss of consciousness combined with stiffening muscles). It’s important to note that cluster seizures do not usually cause breathing problems like those seen in status epilepticus (an ongoing seizure lasting longer than five minutes).
The treatment of cluster headache is largely empirical, with the emphasis on drugs that have been shown to be effective in open trials.
The treatment of cluster headache is largely empirical, with the emphasis on drugs that have been shown to be effective in open trials. The effectiveness of treatment is limited by the lack of understanding of the underlying mechanisms and by a lack of randomized controlled clinical trials. Many treatments for migraine and other primary headaches appear to be effective for cluster attacks, although it is not clear whether these are more effective than standard analgesics such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or opioids when used alone. There is no cure for cluster headaches; however, available medical therapies can reduce their frequency or severity, thereby improving quality of life.[7]
Understanding is the first step to getting help.
Cluster headaches are a rare and difficult to treat condition. A lack of understanding of the symptoms can make finding treatment even more difficult. It’s important that you understand what cluster headaches are, as well as their possible causes and treatments. If you suspect you have cluster headaches, refer to a specialist for diagnosis and treatment options.
Conclusion
With proper understanding and treatment, cluster headaches are manageable. You don’t have to live with this painful condition. Call today for your free consultation or visit our website and learn more about the treatment options available for you!