Cluster Headache

Also known as:  Migrainous Neuralgia

Cluster Headache is a type of Headache that persists for several minutes to several hours each episode.  They return regularly for weeks or months.  The Pain associated with Cluster Headaches is intense and searing and can cause some patients to become breathless.  They only affect one side of the head (i.e. they are unilateral) and are described as feeling like a "hot poker" being driven through the Eye.  Eye redness, tearing and nasal drainage often accompany the Pain.

 Cluster Headaches afflict approximately 0.07% of the population.

 Cluster Headaches are more prevalent in males than in females (males have six times the incidence of Cluster Headaches compared with females).

 Cluster Headaches are particularly prevalent in people who consume Alcohol or who smoke Tobacco.

 The Pain of Cluster Headaches commences rapidly, without warning, and reaches its peak within two to 15 minutes.