Who gets cluster headaches?
Cluster headaches are uncommon. They affect about 1 in 1000 people. Men are five times more commonly affected than women. Anyone can be affected. The first cluster typically develops between the ages of 20-40 years, but it can start at any age.
What causes cluster headaches
Research suggests that a part of the brain called the hypothalamus becomes overactive during each attack. The hypothalamus is thought to release chemicals (neurotransmitters) that may stimulate nerves cells in the brain to cause the pain and other symptoms. However, it is not known what causes this overactivity. One feature of the hypothalamus is thought to be concerned with the 'body clock' or circadian rhythms. Something to do with this 'clock function' of the hypothalamus is possibly why in many cases the clusters tend to occur at the same time each year. And, also, why during a cluster each headache attack often occurs at about the same time each day.
There may be some genetic part as in about 1 in 20 cases the condition also occurs in some other close relative.
Most cluster headaches occur for no apparent reason. However, some people find that something may 'trigger' a headache. If you find that something triggers a headache, then it is best to avoid it for the duration of a cluster period (until you are in remission). For example:
* Alcohol. Some people find that a headache often occurs within an hour or so of having an alcoholic drink. It is usually advised to stop drinking alcohol for the duration of a cluster period.
* Hot temperatures may be a trigger (such as exercising in a hot room, or a hot bath).
* Strong smelling substances such as solvents, perfumes, petrol, etc.
How is cluster headaches diagnosed?
The diagnosis is based on the typical symptoms. There is no test that can prove the diagnosis. Tests are sometimes done if the diagnosis is not clear to rule out other causes of headache.
Average rating:
Wayne Rees, 17 days
Re: 19th October 2009 issue Dr Helen, cluster headaches, Hi i was reading my wifes issue of your womans own, not somthing i usually do, i came accross a section cluster headaches, i sufferd these for years, they came on about 2-3 times a week and the pain was blinding it made you feel sick, week, as if somebody had a drill in your head, they would last about 1-2 hrs at a time and once it started you could not function, as soon as one started friends could tell that it was starting, due to mood chages and i would just dissapear out of the way, it seamed to be more intense and regular when i had a drink, i have even been in meetings in work and have just got up and walked out, i used to get a feeling in my tummy area as one was about to start so i had a bit of a warning, as i said the pain is bad, i can imagine how this lad is feeling, the Doctor put me on ZOMIG and this helped a lot as you would take a pill as you felt one start and within about 20 mins it starts to go away, thankfully i dont get them anymore, touch wood, i think one of the reasons they stopped is that i gave up drinking 8 years ago and smoking 3 years ago, apart from a few other little health problems, i have never felt better, but i do feel sorry for people who suffer these headaches, they do really hurt a lot, and i know us lads dont take pain as good as you ladies, but it was bad. Thank you, Wayne Rees Cardiff South Wales
Report this comment