Cluster headache

Cluster Headache

Description of cluster headache

Cluster headache – one of the types of heavy, recurrent pain, which occurs on one side of the head. Cluster pain occurs series (clusters, hence the name) attacks several times a day for several weeks, or even months, then suddenly it goes and says months, and even years.

There are two basic types of headaches:

• Episodic cluster headaches – there are one or more times a day for several weeks. Then the headaches come in remission and can return months or years later;
• Chronic cluster headaches – there are almost daily without periods of less than one month.

Any type of cluster headaches may go into another type.

The causes of cluster headache

Reason for cluster headaches is unknown. It is believed, that it can cause abnormal activation of the area of ​​the brain, which is responsible for regulating the temperature, blood pressure, hormone secretion and sleep. Pain, The researchers believe, It caused by a combination of expansion of blood vessels and inflammation of the nerves of the face.

Other possible causes of cluster headache include:

• Alcohol consumption;
• Changes in atmospheric pressure;
• Changes in sleep patterns;
• Tobacco;
• Medication, such as nitroglycerin.

Risk factors cluster headache

Factors, that may increase the risk of cluster headache include:

• Paul: male;
• Age: 20-50 years;
• Operations of the head or the presence of traumatic brain injury;
• A family history of cluster headache.

Symptoms of cluster headache

Cluster headache symptoms include:

• Cutting, penetration, burning pain in the head, that:
  • It starts suddenly;
  • There is only one side of the head;
  • Often it starts around the eye and spreads to the same side of the head;
  • It leads to facial flushing;
  • It can occur on a daily or almost daily for several weeks;
  • It can be observed 1-8 once a day;
  • It lasts from 15 minutes before 3 hours;
  • Often it occurs at about the same time each day;
  • The intensity of the pain increases over time;
  • It may begin for two hours before bedtime;
  • Can awaken the patient;
  • It may include blurred vision, spots before the eyes, or the inability to move one side of the body. It most often occurs during migraine;
• Restlessness and agitation;
• Nausea.

During a headache on the affected side may arise other symptoms, including:

• Cold;
• Redness or release of moisture from the eye to the side, where there are pains;
• Fallen eyelid;
• The narrowing of the pupil;
• Swelling of the face and the tides, Sweating;
• Sensitivity to light and noise.

Diagnosis cluster headache

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical and neurological examination. Neurological examination examines the following functions:

• Mental status;
• The functioning of the cranial nerves;
• Motor and sensory functions;
• Reflexes;
• Coordination;
• Walking.

The doctor will ask about the frequency and structure of headaches. For these purposes, it is recommended to keep a diary, where to write:

• When the headaches started and ended;
• Then, What were you doing at this time;
• Then, how you tried to relieve the pain.

To rule out other diseases, They may be made of brain images, Why use:

• MRT;
• CT scan.

Treatment of cluster headache

Treatment is directed at reducing the incidence of headache and its relief.

Changing lifestyles and self-care

• Keep sleep. Avoid afternoon naps or sleeping, which can cause headaches;
• Do not drink alcoholic beverages. Even a small amount of alcohol can trigger a headache during an exacerbation;
• Learn how to manage stress. Stress can cause headaches;
• Do not smoke. Tobacco may affect the medication;
• Find Out, which is the trigger of headaches and take measures, to avoid.

Medication in Cluster Headache

Preparations, used to treat migraines can often relieve sudden attacks of cluster headache. These drugs should be taken at the first sign of headache.

Preparations, used to treat cluster headaches:

• Triptans in the form of tablets, injection or nasal spray;
• Octreotide by injection;
• Corticosteroids, such as prednisone;
• Lidocaine as drops or spray;
• Digidroergotamin;
• Ergotamin;
• Painkillers with caffeine;
• Glycerin as an injection into the nerve – used, when other treatments do not help.

In some cases, the headache lasts long enough to, the drug had to act. Sometimes drugs just delay an attack, and not cropped it.

Painkillers, especially drugs, It can not be used during an acute attack.

To prevent or reduce the incidence of headaches can be assigned to other medications:

• Intranasal – zukapsaicin (Tsyvamyd) and capsaicin;
• Steroids – orally or by injection;
• Verapamil;
• Preparations lithium;
• Melatonin;
• Valproate or gabapentin;
• Metilzergid
• Dihydroergotamine or a triptan;
• Topiramate;
• Baklofen;
• Beta Blockers;
• Clonidine;
• Amitriptyline;
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

Oxygen therapy for cluster headache

Breathing 100% oxygen for 10-15 minutes often relieves cluster headache attack. The procedure is often seen as the main therapy for cluster headache. Oxygen reduces blood flow to the affected area of ​​the brain. In people under the age of 50 years, which have episodic cluster headaches, oxygen therapy is the most effective treatment for cluster headache.

Oxygen therapy can be quite an expensive procedure, There are also certain risks in its use.

Surgery for cluster headache

As a last resort, some doctors may recommend cutting off or destruction of the facial nerve, to eliminate pain.

Prophylaxis of cluster headache

To prevent deterioration of cluster headache prophylactically prescribe medication. Besides:

• Maintain a regular sleep;
• Avoid smoking;
• Avoid alcohol, narcotic analgesics, bright sunlight and stress;
• Perform moderate exercise;
• Practice relaxation techniques;
• Take your medicines, as indicated by a physician.