What are cluster headaches and how do they differ from migraines?
Cluster headaches are extremely painful headaches that come on suddenly and affect one side of the head, usually in or around one eye. They're different from migraines in several key ways:
Key differences
- Cluster headaches start suddenly, while migraines Show Full Answer
What are cluster headaches and how do they differ from migraines?
Cluster headaches are extremely painful headaches that come on suddenly and affect one side of the head, usually in or around one eye. They're different from migraines in several key ways:
Key differences:
- Cluster headaches start suddenly, while migraines build gradually
- They last 15 minutes to 3 hours (much shorter than migraines)
- Pain is typically around one eye, temple, or side of the head
- They come in groups or "clusters" - sometimes multiple times a day
Common symptoms include:
- Severe pain around one eye
- Tears and redness in the affected eye
- Nasal congestion or runny nose
- Restlessness or agitation
- Drooping eyelid
- Forehead or facial sweating
A MyMigraineTeam member might describe the intense, focused pain that makes it hard to stay still during an attack.
If you're experiencing these symptoms, it's important to contact your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment. Cluster headaches require different treatment approaches than migraines, including high-flow oxygen therapy and specific medications like injectable triptans.
January 6
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