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$Title{How is a Cluster Headache Different from a Migraine?}
$Subject{headaches cluster migraine Circulatory System headache migraines
vascular frontotemporal throbbing head ache aches cerebrovascular brain}
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Cluster Headaches*0003905.scf
Classic Migraine Headaches*0003902.scf
Common Migraine Headaches*0003903.scf
Where Headaches Originate II*0004002.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


How is a Cluster Headache Different from a Migraine?


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QUESTION:  I am a chronic headache sufferer and they come frequently and are
very severe.  My girlfriend read an article, that she said sounded like me,
about cluster headaches.  What makes a cluster headache different from
migraines?

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ANSWER:  Cluster headaches can be distinguished from migraines by their
duration, the location of the pain, associated symptoms, precipitating
factors, and the behavior of the patient during an attack.  Though confused
with migraines, cluster headaches are uncommon vascular headaches which occur
in episodes or "clusters" that last from six to twelve weeks.  The pain,
lasting from 30 minutes to two hours, tends to be excruciating.  Though the
origin of the condition is not certain, studies suggest a possible link to
alcohol since attacks frequently follow its consumption.  Peptic ulcer disease
and a high sensitivity to histamine are also common among patients, indicating
a possible connection there as well.
     To avoid confusion between cluster headaches and migraines, various
distinguishing factors have been observed.  Cluster headaches usually effect
young men, with one to three painfully intense episodes a day which last up to
two hours.  The pain is drilling in nature, most intense behind the eyes and
temples, and is usually accompanied by nasal congestion.  Attacks occur most
frequently at night and the intensity usually causes the patient to pace
during the attack.
     Migraines, on the other hand, occur more frequently amongst women and
affect a larger age span.  The attacks are less frequent, and the pain, which
is frontotemporal and throbbing in nature, is somewhat less severe.  The
duration, however, is longer, lasting from four hours to two days.  As a rule,
no nasal congestion is present, and patients are more likely to lie down or
sleep during an attack.
     While this may help you understand the difference between the two, it
will take a personal visit to your family doctor to help clarify your
diagnosis and establish the proper course of treatment in your case.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.