Tips to get rid of those annoying cluster headaches

All you need to know about cluster headaches

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Written By: Aishwarya Vaidya | Published : April 26, 2018 11:37 AM IST

Is your important meeting or a presentation lined up? And do you suffer from cluster headache? Then, read on

Cluster headache is the worst form of headache. It is not the usual sort of headache. It is not migraine. Some call it a suicide headache because it has been known to drive people desperate to find treatment. Cluster Headache affects less than 1% of the population, predominantly middle aged men. The pain usually occurs around the eyes, temple or forehead; it remains fixed on the same side of head. It is generally accompanied by one or more of the following tearing of the eyes, drooping of the eyelid, nasal congestion, facial flushing and forehead sweating," says Dr Pawan Ojha, Neurologist and HOD- Headache and Vertigo Clinic, Hiranandani Hospital Vashi- A Fortis Network Hospital.

Read:Headache: 4 signs that indicate medical emergency

As per Dr Ojha, Attacks last from 15 minutes to three hours, or more; most typically they last 45-90 minutes. The attacks come on quickly, with warning signs appearing a few minutes before the severe attack strikes.

Below, Dr Ojha suggests treatment for cluster headache:

  • There's no cure for cluster headaches. Pain killers are usually ineffective and can be addictive.
  • Headache specialist will prescribe medications that are generally very effective in preventing or treating these attacks.

Read: 6 tips to prevent weekend migraines

Lifestyle and home remedies for cluster headaches:

  • Make some lifestyle modifications - stick to regular sleep schedule and avoid triggers like alcohol.
  • Avoid Tobacco smoking or chewing.
  • Keep your blood pressure under control.
  • Avoid consumption of chocolates, sausages, yogurt, tyramine rich food, food additives, overheated rooms, direct exposure to sun, sudden changes in atmospheric pressure and stress.
  • Don t self-medicate as it does not help in this type of headache.

Though, Dr Ojha advises to seek medical attention to tackle the same. As, it can hamper the quality of life of the person.

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