Cluster Headache
Cluster headache causes severe pain around one eye, coming in bouts (clusters) over weeks with attacks that often strike at the same time each day. It is one of the most painful headache types.
Causes & risk factors
- Thought to involve part of the brain that controls body clocks
- Attacks often triggered during a cluster period
- Alcohol during a bout
- Strong smells or high altitude
- More common in men and often in smokers
Common symptoms
Tests & diagnosis
Treatment & management
- High-flow oxygen to stop an attack
- Fast-acting migraine-type medicines for acute attacks
- Preventive medicines during a cluster period
- Avoiding alcohol and known triggers during bouts
- Specialist review, as these headaches are hard to manage alone
When to see a doctor urgently
- A sudden "worst-ever" headache — call your local emergency number now
- Headache with fever, stiff neck, weakness or confusion
- A first severe one-sided headache that needs diagnosis
- Attacks not controlled by current treatment
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about cluster headache. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
How is cluster headache different from migraine?
Cluster headaches are shorter but extremely severe, centred around one eye with a watering eye or blocked nose, and people feel restless. Migraine tends to last longer and people prefer to lie still.
Does oxygen really help?
Yes. Breathing high-flow oxygen can stop many cluster attacks quickly and is a recognised treatment arranged through a specialist.
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MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.