Bend, Oregon is widely known as an outdoor mecca—and also the source of a unique concern for some residents: cluster headaches. These extremely painful headaches are often called “suicide headaches” due to the sheer level of agony they cause, and they are thought to be tightly linked to Bend’s extreme climate.
Although cluster headaches can afflict an individual anywhere around the world, there is overwhelming anecdotal evidence that those who move to Bend from another region—where climate is more temperate—soon develop them. It’s not an easy connection to erradicate; especially when such a high percentage of Bend’s residents are new transplants, looking for the lifestyle that this picturesque Oregon landscape offers. But it’s also not an easy condition to live with. The question persist: is there truly a connection between Bend’s climate and the development of these awful headaches?
What is a Cluster Headache?
Before delving into the possible connection between Bend, Oregon’s climate and cluster headaches, it’s important to first understand exactly what a cluster headache is.
Cluster headaches are widely-regarded as the most painful type of headache. These episodes typically come on with little to no warning, usually described as a sharp, stabbing, and burning cranial pain focused near one eye and lasting from 15 to 180 minutes. Those that suffer with cluster headaches nearly always have a cluster of headaches in close succession; they can occur every day up to eight times a day. The attacks can last for weeks or months at a time, with then months or years of remission, before beginning all over again.
The exact cause of cluster headaches is not well-understood; as of now, no clear medical explanation is known. However, medical researchers have found several potential triggers for these headaches, including tobacco and alcohol use, strong scents, and emotional stress. Some sufferers report feeling the underlying symptoms before an attack occurs, like an agitation, light-headedness, or inability to concentrate, however others say that their cluster headaches just seem to come on from nowhere.
Climate and Cluster Headaches
Bend, Oregon is an outdoor-lover’s paradise, sandwiched between the Cascade Mountains and the high desert of Eastern Oregon. However, the region is also known for being prone to extreme weather—which could potentially be linked to the increased diagnosis of cluster headaches among the local population.
Many comment that the region’s cold, dry climate and rapidly changing winds can be a trigger for headaches, and climatological studies support this assertion. The region experiences more precipitation during the fall and winter months, and the cold, dry conditions can be hard on someone without a prior history of cluster headaches. The low humidity can dry out the nasal membranes, which can lead to sinus congestion and potentially a headache. Furthermore, the drastic temperature fluctuations Bend is known for—often going from warm to cold in a matter of hours—can put further stress on the body and potentially lead to an increased chance of cluster headaches.
Additionally, the transition period from one season to the next can be an extra challenging time. Both the home and the workplace usually need to be heated as the days go from being significantly warm to considerably cold, and these rapid fluctuations can be an added trigger for those suffering from cluster headaches.
Addressing Cluster Headaches in Bend
Due to the increased incidence of cluster headaches in Bend, medical professionals have been exploring new ways to help those affected. Unfortunately, no clear-cut solution has been found; however, the majority of people report that a combination of home treatments and preventative medications and procedures can help reduce the frequency and intensity of attacks.
Although it’s unclear whether or not Bend’s rugged climate is truly playing a major role in the development of cluster headaches among its residents, it’s certainly important for each person to take steps to manage their risk for headache. Practice sound sleep and eat well to combat stress, and make sure to maintain an appropriate and consistent amount of physical activity. Also, keep a record of when headaches typically happen and what activities are being performed right before to help identify potential triggers. Most importantly, make an appointment with a headache specialist to discuss treatment options.
Conclusion
Cluster headaches are undoubtedly some of the most painful ailments a person can endure, and medical professionals are still working to understand this condition and to find options to be able to relief it. While many anecdotal reports from Bend, Oregon suggest an increase of cluster headaches among its residents, no conclusive association link has yet been discovered. However, it’s still extremely important to be aware of the potentially triggering climatological conditions in the region and to employ strategies to help minimize the likelihood of these headaches occurring.
