Signs of Cluster headache

Description

Severe headaches characterized by pain on one side of the head, or around one eye. They often recur at the same time each day, and can last for several days or weeks, with weeks or months of remission. 90% of those affected are males. Some people who have cluster headaches are heavy smokers. Alcohol use, bright light, stress, or certain foods may trigger an attack.

Symptoms

Severe headache, pain around or behind the eye, nausea, vomiting, photophobia (light increases the pain), eye redness, eye tearing, runny nose (rhinorrhea), facial redness.

Tests

A history and physical exam will be performed. Additional tests include: CT scan or MRI to rule out other causes of headaches.

Standard Workup

CT Scan
MRI

Treatment

Avoidance of any headache triggers. Drugs to relieve the pain during an acute episode including: pain medications, steroids, ergot preparations (Cafergot, DHE), and/or triptans (Imitrex, Amerge). Drugs to prevent recurrence of headaches including: antihistamines, indomethacin, lithium carbonate, calcium channel blockers, propranolol, amitriptyline, verapamil, and/or cyproheptadine.