Cluster Headaches

Question 1

What are risk factors for cluster headaches?

Answer 1

Smoking, male, alcohol, lack of sleep

Question 2

What are the clinical features of cluster headaches?

Answer 2

• Pain typical occurs once or twice a day, each episode lasting 15 mins - 2 hours.
• Occurs in clusters of 4-12 weeks followed by remission for months to years.
• Intense sharp, stabbing pain around one eye (recurrent attacks ‘always’ affect same side).
• Patient restless and agitated
• accompanied by lacrimation, lid swelling, redness
• nasal stuffiness

Question 3

How is it managed acutely?

Answer 3

100% O2 and SC triptan

Question 4

How is managed prophylactically?

Answer 4

Avoid triggers, Verapamil or sodium valproate