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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
- Severe one-sided head pain around the eye
- A red or watering eye on the same side
- A blocked or runny nostril
- Restlessness or agitation during attacks
- A drooping eyelid
Tests & diagnosis
- Clinical diagnosis (history and exam)
- MRI brain (to exclude other causes)
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
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.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. 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.