What should you know about cluster headache WikEM?

Pain is often centred around one eye or the temple. The painful side may tear, redden, swell or develop a drooping eyelid, while the nostril can become blocked or run. Restlessness is common during an attack, unlike the wish to lie still that some people experience with other headaches. Attacks may arrive in clusters over a spell and can recur at similar times, but symptoms vary between people.

A symptom list from an online reference cannot diagnose you. Eye problems, migraine, sinus conditions and other causes can overlap with parts of this pattern. Diagnosis depends on the history and, when indicated, examination or further tests.

Book a GP assessment for repeated severe attacks or a first episode with this pattern. Record the pain side, onset, duration, frequency, tearing, nasal changes, eyelid changes, possible triggers and all medicines used. Follow prescribed instructions for acute relief and prevention. Avoid alcohol during a suspected active spell if it reliably brings on your attacks, and avoid self-treating with someone else’s prescription.

Emergency assessment is required for a sudden explosive headache, weakness, confusion, fainting, seizure, fever with neck stiffness, or new vision loss. Seek prompt review when pain follows injury, changes substantially, or comes with a painful red eye and reduced vision. Do not assume a new severe headache is cluster headache until other urgent causes have been considered.

Ask what features support cluster headache, what alternatives should be considered, which treatment should start an attack plan, and how prevention will be reviewed if episodes continue.