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Cluster headache - Overview

Alternative Names

Histamine headache; Headache - histamine; Migrainous neuralgia; Headache - cluster

Definition of Cluster headache:

A cluster headache is one-sided head pain that may involve tearing of the eyes and a stuffy nose. The headaches occur repeatedly every day at the same time for several weeks and then go away.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Cluster headaches are a fairly common form of chronic, repeated headaches. They are more common in men than women. The headaches can occur at any age but are most common in adolescence and middle age.

Scientists do not know exactly what causes cluster headaches, but they appear to be related to the body's sudden release of histamine or serotonin. Family history does not appear to play a role.

Some people who have cluster headaches are heavy smokers. Alcohol use may trigger attacks. Bright light (glare), stress, or certain foods may trigger an attack.

Brain

Hypothalamus

Cause of headaches

Pain of cluster headache

Reviewed last on: 6/19/2008
Daniel B. Hoch, PhD, MD, Assistant Professor of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Silberstein SD, Young WB. Headache and Facial Pain. In: Goetz, CG. Textbook of Clinical Neurology. 3nd ed. St. Louis, Mo: WB Saunders; 2007: chap. 53.

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