Cluster headaches, also known as suicide headaches, are a severe and excruciating type of headache that typically occur in groups. These attacks are often accompanied by red, watery eyes and a runny nose, and are more common in men than in women. While there’s no cure for the disorder, there are several ways to manage it. This article takes a closer look at the role of diet and nutrition in managing cluster headaches in Bend.
What Are Cluster Headaches?
Cluster headaches are a type of headache that is characterized by intense, stabbing pains that typically occur on one side of the head. In most cases, these attacks come on suddenly and only last between 15 minutes and three hours. They are often preceded by a sense of restlessness or agitation, and various physical symptoms such as droopy eyelids and a drooping jaw.
These episodes of pain occur in clusters because they typically happen at the same time of day for several weeks, and then stop for a period of several months to several years before reoccurring. Sometimes they are accompanied by a series of symptoms known as autonomic symptoms – these can include a corneal tearing reflex, which causes the eye to become excessively watery and red, and a persistent runny nose.
What Are the Causes of Cluster Headaches?
It is thought that the root cause of cluster headaches is due to an imbalance in the part of the brain responsible for regulating the body’s sleep-wake cycle. This leads to constriction of the blood vessels in the brain, as well as a release of the hormones adenosine and serotonin, which are believed to be responsible for triggering the intense pain of a cluster headache.
While the exact reasons for an imbalance in the sleep-wake cycle are not well understood, there are certain things that can increase the risk of developing cluster headaches. These include excessive alcohol consumption, cigarette use, exposure to cigarette smoke, sleep disturbances, dehydration, certain medications, and heavy physical exertion.
Diet and Nutrition: An Important Factor in Managing Cluster Headaches
The role of diet and nutrition in managing cluster headaches is largely underestimated. It is thought that certain foods and nutrients can help reduce the frequency and severity of cluster headaches. For example, magnesium is a mineral that is known for its ability to relieve muscle tension and increase the flow of blood to the brain, while tryptophan is an amino acid that has been shown to increase the production of serotonin, a hormone that helps regulate mood and sleep.
Certain foods may be particularly beneficial for people suffering from cluster headaches. For example, foods that are high in magnesium, such as nuts, seeds, whole grains, and legumes, can help to reduce the symptoms of cluster headaches. Similarly, foods that are high in tryptophan, such as turkey, chicken, lentils, and beans, may be particularly helpful. Additionally, foods that are high in essential fatty acids, such as fatty fish and walnuts, can help to reduce inflammation in the brain and may help to reduce the intensity of a cluster headache.
Conclusion
While the condition of cluster headaches is complex and difficult to treat, the role of diet and nutrition in managing cluster headaches is an important factor. The presence of certain nutrients, such as magnesium and tryptophan, can help to reduce the frequency and intensity of cluster headaches. Additionally, foods that are high in essential fatty acids, such as fatty fish and walnuts, can help to reduce inflammation in the brain and may help to alleviate the symptoms of a cluster headache. Therefore, if you are living in Bend and are suffering from cluster headaches, it is a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional about incorporating a healthy diet and nutrition regime as part of your management plan.
