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Headaches - cluster

Description

An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cluster headaches.


Highlights

FDA Warning: Serotonin Syndrome

In 2006, the FDA issued a warning against using triptan drugs and certain antidepressant medications at the same time. Combining a triptan with a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) or selective serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) can result in serotonin syndrome. Serotonin syndrome is a potentially life-threatening condition caused by excess levels of the brain chemical serotonin.

Characteristics of Cluster Headaches

Cluster headaches are the most painful of all headaches. According to a 2006 study in the journal Headache , patients with cluster headaches also experience during attacks:

Lifestyle Factors

Smoking and alcohol use are associated with cluster headaches. In the Headache study, 66% of patients were current smokers. About half reported that alcohol, usually red wine, was a trigger for the attacks.

Management of Cluster Headaches


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