Cluster headaches are thought to be one of the most painful types of headaches, and can affect anyone, regardless of gender, race or age. These headaches may occur at any time of the day and are often described as feeling like “searing” or “boring” pain in one eye or the upper part of the face. Cluster headaches may appear suddenly, and the person affected has no control over when they occur or how long they last. These headaches are called “cluster” because they five to six keep recurrent headaches over several weeks to several months, followed by periods of remission where they have no symptoms.
People who suffer from cluster headaches must understand what they are and how they are caused in order to properly manage the condition. Below, we will discuss what cluster headaches are, their symptoms, and the triggers that cause these headaches, so that sufferers can better manage and even prevent them.
Causes of Cluster Headaches
It is still not entirely clear why some people get cluster headaches and others don’t. However, medicine experts believe that these headaches may be linked to the size of certain blood vessels in the head. When these vessels expand or become swollen, they may put pressure on the cavernous sinus, which is located behind the eye. As a result, the part of the head where the sinus is located begins to throb, leading to the classic symptoms of a cluster headache.
In certain cases, cluster headaches may be due to a family history of headaches, and they may also be associated with particular events, such as exposure to prescribed medications, to chemical compounds, or to some illegal drugs. In rare cases, they may stem from the type of pain syndromes or other chronic pain conditions.
Symptoms of Cluster Headaches
Cluster headaches usually develop rather quickly, often starting within 5-10 minutes of the attack. These headaches are often centered around one eye, or on one side of the face; one person may feel like they are hovering over a searing pain, or a sharp stabbing pain may occur. Typically, cluster headaches last from 15 minutes to as long as two hours; in some cases, these headaches may last up to 3 days. People who suffer from cluster headaches may have altered vision in the affected eye, as well as tenderness and redness in the area of the head. Some people may also have other symptoms, like a stuffy nose, a droopy eyelid, and difficulty moving the eye fully.
Triggers of Cluster Headaches
Cluster headaches may be triggered by a variety of different things. Depending on the individual, cluster headache triggers might include:
Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol and beer can be a major trigger for some people with cluster headaches.
Smoking
Cigarette smoking may also trigger cluster headaches in some cases.
Strong Olfactory Stimulation
Strong smells like perfume, cologne, and flowers can also trigger cluster headaches for some individuals.
Sleep Patterns
Sometimes, changes in a person’s sleep pattern can trigger a cluster headache. Unfortunately, it can be very difficult for individuals to track this particular trigger.
Pain Triggering Activities
Some activities that cause pain, such as sex, can be another trigger of cluster headaches.
Illness
Certain colds and other viral infections may bring on cluster headaches, but this is rare.
It is important for people suffering from cluster headaches to avoid their known triggers in order to reduce the likelihood of getting a headache. Those who can identify their triggers and stay away from them may be able to significantly decrease the frequency and severity of their headaches, making it easier for them to lead a normal life.
Conclusion
Cluster headaches are one of the most painful types of headaches, but they can be managed with proper understanding of their underlying causes and triggers. One must remember that triggers can vary from person to person, and that people who suffer from cluster headaches may experience different symptoms during an attack. By understanding the triggers and identifying the symptoms of cluster headaches, a person can better manage the condition and even prevent attacks in some instances. If a person is experiencing frequent and severe headaches, they should speak with a doctor.
