cluster headaches
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Cluster headaches are characterized by intense, excruciating pain that tends to be unilateral and deep, often starting behind the eye or in the orbit area. According to , these headaches are linked to neural inflammation, particularly involving the trigeminal nerve, which can lead to symptoms such as a drooping eyelid, constricted pupils, tearing, and nasal discharge. The pain can last from 30 minutes to three hours and can occur at any time, often even waking individuals during sleep. Interestingly, cluster headaches occur more frequently in men than women, possibly due to circadian mechanisms 1 2.
The trigeminal nerve, which has three branches extending to the eye, nose, and lip, plays a crucial role in these headaches. This nerve can become inflamed or hyperactivated, causing the severe pain that defines cluster headaches. Standard anti-inflammatory treatments might not effectively address this type of headache since it's more of a neural issue. It's important to consult a physician if you experience symptoms consistent with cluster headaches, as they require specialized treatment approaches 2.
Some effective treatments for cluster headaches focus on addressing these neural issues rather than only managing inflammation or blood vessel dilation. The exact causes behind cluster headaches, such as the role of infections like the herpes virus, are complex and involve detailed physiological responses in the nerves 3.
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