Cluster headaches
When to see a doctor if you have cluster headaches?
The first time you experience what you think may be a cluster headache, then you should see a doctor as soon as possible. The doctor will ask you about your symptoms and may refer you for tests.
In some people, a brain scan is needed to exclude other conditions that can have similar symptoms to cluster headaches.
Typically, in cluster headaches the brain scan is normal and the diagnosis is made on the basis of your symptoms without the need for tests.
If you are diagnosed with cluster headaches, you will usually see a specialist such as a neurologist (a specialist in conditions affecting the brain and nerves) to talk about your treatment options.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 28 Nov 2016
Symptoms of cluster headaches
Cluster headaches begin suddenly and without warning. The pain is very severe and is often described as a sharp, burning or piercing sensation on one side of the head.
Treatment of cluster headaches
The headaches can't be treated with over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol, as these are too slow to take effect. You'll need to have one or more specialist treatments instead.
Preventing cluster headaches
Alternative treatments may be considered if verapamil is not effective. These may include corticosteroids , lithium medication and occipital nerve blocks (injections of a local anaesthetic into the back of the head).
When to see a doctor if you have cluster headaches?
The first time you experience what you think may be a cluster headache, then you should see a doctor as soon as possible. The doctor will ask you about your symptoms and may refer you for tests.
Introduction
Cluster headaches are excruciating attacks of pain in one side of the head, often felt around the eye. It's not clear exactly what causes cluster headaches, but they've been linked to activity in part of the brain called the hypothalamus.
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