Cluster headaches are severe and five times more common in men than women. They usually begin between the ages of 20 and 40 and affect only one side of the head. Cluster headaches typically occur multiple times a day at the same times every day—often an hour or two after going to sleep—for weeks or months. Then, the “cluster” ends, leaving you headache-free for weeks, months—even years.
What Are the Symptoms of Cluster Headaches?
Cluster headaches are characterized by severe, throbbing pain usually concentrated around an eye and temple that typically lasts for 15 minutes to three hours. During a cluster, the headaches tend to occur an average of twice a day over four to six weeks. Other symptoms may include nasal congestion on the affected side of the head and tearing and reddening of the eye on that side. The pupil may become smaller and the eyelid may droop. The forehead and face may sweat. The pain is often severe—people describe it as feeling like “a hot poker in the eye.”These headaches most often occur in spring and fall. They don’t run in families. Most affected men are heavy smokers. (Quitting smoking doesn’t stop the headaches immediately but may help over time.) Many patients also have sleep apnea. Drinking alcohol during a cluster period can set off an immediate attack, as can strong odors such as those from gasoline, paint, perfume, or bleach. Exercise or becoming overheated can also bring on attacks.
