Cluster headaches

are a painful condition characterized by recurrent, short-lasting headaches that occur daily for a period of days or weeks. These headaches often occur at the same time each year, such as during spring or fall, leading to misconceptions that they may be related to seasonal allergies or work-related stress.

The exact causes of cluster headaches are unknown, but they are believed to involve a facial nerve, resulting in severe pain around one or both eyes during an attack. The intensity of the pain can exceed that of migraines, causing individuals to feel restless and unable to remain still, often pacing back and forth.

Cluster headaches are relatively uncommon, affecting approximately 1 out of 1,000 people, with a higher prevalence among men compared to women.

Symptoms of Cluster Headaches include:

• Rapid escalation of intensity within 5 to 10 minutes of the headache’s onset.
• Usually one-sided pain, consistently affecting the same side of the head but occasionally switching sides on different days.
• Pain localized behind or around one eye, potentially spreading to the forehead, temple, cheek, and nose. Some individuals may experience a pulsating sensation.
• Duration of 30-90 minutes, with variations from as short as 15 minutes to as long as 3 hours.
• Frequency of one to three headaches per day, typically lasting for two to three months. However, periods of no headaches may occur intermittently, followed by a possible return of symptoms at any time.

Treatment options for Cluster Headaches include:

• Induced shots, breathing treatments, prescription medications, nasal sprays, or a combination of these approaches to alleviate pain.
• A thorough examination by a Texas Pain Physician to explore appropriate treatment options.
• In cases where other treatments have been unsuccessful, surgical procedures that target the trigeminal nerve may be considered.

If you or someone you know is experiencing back pain or cluster headaches, we recommend scheduling an appointment with Texas Pain Physicians to receive proper evaluation and guidance.