Cluster headache is a rare but extremely painful type of headache characterized by severe, one-sided pain around or behind the eye. Attacks occur in clusters, meaning they happen repeatedly over weeks or months, followed by pain-free periods (remission).
Common symptoms include:
- Intense burning, stabbing, or sharp pain around one eye
- Red or watery eye on the affected side
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Drooping eyelid or swelling around the eye
- Facial sweating and restlessness during attacks
Individual attacks typically last 15 minutes to 3 hours and often occur at the same time each day, especially at night.
The exact cause is unknown, but abnormalities involving the hypothalamus and activation of the trigeminal nerve are believed to play a role. Potential triggers include alcohol, smoking, high altitudes, bright light, heat, and certain medications.
Although cluster headaches are not usually life-threatening, anyone experiencing a new, severe, or unusual headache should seek medical evaluation to rule out other serious conditions.
MBH/DB