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Chronic Cluster Headache Symptoms

Cluster headaches have the reputation of being the most painful of all types of headaches. The pain can be so intense that they have been nicknamed "suicide headaches." Cluster headaches typically occur in obvious periodic cycles, or clusters, that are frequently seasonal. The regularity of cluster headache attacks has also earned them the nickname "alarm clock headaches." Most sufferers experience headache-free remission periods in between clusters. Cluster headaches are referred to as either episodic or chronic depending on the duration of the cluster and remission periods.

  1. Definition

    • Chronic cluster headaches involve headache attacks that occur regularly for over 1 year with pain-free remission periods lasting fewer than 30 days. Many individuals with chronic cluster headaches don't experience any remission period at all. About 10 to 20 percent of cluster headache patients suffer from chronic cluster headaches. For some unknown reason, those who are suffering from chronic headache attacks might see their condition change to episodic headache attacks, while others find their episodic cluster headaches become more chronic.

    Pain

    • Cluster headaches are characterized by an excruciating pain that typically remains on one side of the head and starts in or around one eye. This pain is continuous, sharp and penetrating. Many sufferers describe it as feeling like a rusty nail, sharp spike or hot poker is being stuck into the head or into the eyeball. This pain might radiate to the forehead, neck, shoulders, jaw, temple, upper teeth or nostrils. The duration of the pain ranges from 15 minutes to 3 hours if left untreated.

    Restlessness

    • Many individuals suffering from cluster headaches appear extremely restless or agitated. They typically prefer to pace the room or to sit and rock back and forth for the duration of the headache attack. This constant movement sometimes relieves some of the intense head and face pain. Unlike individuals who have a migraine, cluster headache sufferers typically won't lie down during an attack because a prone position can make the pain even more intense.

    Other Symptoms

    • During a cluster headache attack, sufferers can experience a drooping, red or teary eye on the affected side of the face. The pupil of the eye often contracts until it's as small as a pinpoint. Some individuals report having a stuffy or runny nostril on the affected side. A small percentage of cluster headache sufferers report experiencing migraine-like symptoms, such as sensitivity to light and sound, auras and nausea.

    Cause

    • Medical science has been unable to determine the exact cause of chronic cluster headaches. The most accepted theory involves an abnormality in the hypothalamus, which regulates the body's biological clock. Genetics is thought to be another factor, although no specific genes have been singled out. Common cluster headache triggers include alcoholic beverages, chocolate, perfume and hot temperatures. An afternoon nap can trigger a nighttime cluster headache for many people, while others find a nap keeps the headaches at bay.

    Treatment

    • Chronic cluster headaches are difficult to treat since they don't respond well to the usual pain medication. Many individuals find relief by applying ice to the affected side of the face, taking a hot shower, consuming caffeine or walking outside in cool, fresh air. Some people swear that exercising vigorously during the early stages of a cluster headache will stave off a full-blown attack. Still others are able to stop the pain early on in the attack by taking an antihistamine.

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