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If you have cluster headaches, Bend’s winters can be an especially difficult time. The combination of cold air, dry air and changes in barometric pressure can easily trigger a cluster headache, causing it to last between 15 minutes and three hours. The pain and discomfort associated with these headaches can be unbearable, and can make even the simplest of daily activities difficult.

While there are several different types of treatments available to help manage the symptoms of cluster headaches, finding something that works best for you can be tricky. However, there are several tips and strategies that can help you better manage your cluster headaches during Bend’s winter months.

Understand Your Triggers

The first step to effectively managing cluster headaches during Bend’s winter months is to understand your triggers. Triggers can vary from person to person, so it is important to keep a diary of your symptoms and the things that you do or consume in the hours leading up to the onset of a headache. By identifying your unique triggers, you can reduce your exposure to them and hopefully prevent a headache from occurring.

Stay Warm

Bend can get very cold during the winter months, so it is important to layer up in an effort to stay warm. In addition to staying warm, pay close attention to the humidity levels in your home. When the air is dry, it can exacerbate the symptoms of a cluster headache. By using a humidifier in your home or office, you can help keep the air a little bit more moist and reduce the risk of a headache.

Follow a Regular Sleep Schedule

As with other types of headaches, a regular sleep schedule can be a helpful strategy for managing the symptoms of cluster headaches. Aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day in order to regulate your body’s internal clock. Try to get between seven and nine hours of sleep each night, but be cautious of oversleeping, as sleeping too long can also be a trigger for cluster headaches.

Watch Your Diet

During the winter months, it can be tempting to indulge in comfort foods and snacks, but it is important to be mindful of the things that you eat and drink as they can also be a trigger for cluster headaches. Keep a food diary to help you identify which foods are most closely associated with the onset of a headache. Some of the most common foods that are associated with cluster headaches include processed meats, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol and aged cheeses.

Exercise Regularly

Regular physical activity can help boost your mood and reduce stress, which can both be helpful for managing cluster headaches. Aim to get at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise on most days, being sure to incorporate aerobic exercise, strength training and stretching exercises for best results.

Medications and Treatments

There are several different types of medications that can be used to help prevent or treat cluster headaches. Talk to your doctor to determine which medication might be best for you. In addition to medications, there are several different treatments that can help manage the symptoms of cluster headaches, including oxygen therapy, relaxation techniques and biofeedback. These treatment options can help reduce the intensity and duration of the headache.

Conclusion

If you suffer from cluster headaches, Bend’s winter months can be especially tough. However, by taking the time to identify your triggers, staying warm, keeping a regular sleep schedule, watching your diet and getting regular exercise, you can greatly reduce your risk of a cluster headache. Additionally, there are several different medications and treatments available that can help manage the symptoms of a cluster headache. Don’t let cluster headaches ruin your winter; use these tips and strategies to help stay headache-free.