Migraines can be very severe, but cluster headaches can make it worse. Cluster headaches can also be called “suicide headaches” due to their sudden, extremely painful attacks that can last anywhere from five minutes to three hours. Cluster headaches can also occur at night, waking you up with severe pain. The pain is usually unilateral behind or over the eye and can be accompanied by other symptoms such as a drop eyelid, pupil changes, and congestion.
Cluster headaches
These are not migraines, but both are vascular headaches. Other types of headaches include myogenic/musculare, traction, and inflammatory. These are less painful. Although the exact cause is unknown, it is believed that cluster headaches and migraines are caused by the dilation of blood vessels. Although the brain doesn’t feel pain, the swelling of the arteries can cause it.
The dilated blood vessels can cause pressure on the trigeminal nervous system. Cluster headaches are often experienced at the same time every day, so it is possible that they are caused a hypothalamus abnormality. The hypothalamus is responsible for controlling our biological clock.
Treatments
Cluster headaches can be stopped by inhaling pure oxygen right away. Strong exercise can have similar effects if oxygen is not available. There are other differences between migraines and cluster headaches. Cluster headaches are more common in women than men, while migraines are more common in women.
Migraines can also be accompanied by a so-called aura, which is a neurological disorder that precedes the migraine. This could include vision disturbances or a tickling sensation in the hands or arms. Sometimes, migraines can be caused by the aura alone. With migraines, relaxation can help. However, with cluster headaches, intensive exercise can bring relief. Relaxation can make the pain worse. Migraines can last for hours or days, while cluster headaches can be severe and can cause migraines that last for weeks or months. To find the best treatment, you should consult your doctor. Cluster headaches can be more difficult than migraines.
