HEADACHE — CLUSTER – DIAGNOSIS
As well, the eye may water and the nostril on that side become blocked, then run with discharge.
The pain rarely lasts beyond three hours and is often as short as 30 minutes. Attacks may occur several times a day and often go on for days or weeks, then disappear.
During an attack, alcohol seems to precipitate the headache, or make it worse. In between attacks, alcohol has no effect.
Many sufferers seem to share a characteristic appearance. Their facial features are described as leonine (lionlike).
Once diagnosed, treatment lies more in prevention than using drugs to relieve the acute pain.
Drugs used in the management of migraine such as methysergide, pizotifen and ergotamine taken regularly, singly or in combination, can abort and prevent attacks.
Cortisone, used in a short burst, is also of considerable value. The betablocker drugs, originally introduced for use in treating heart disorders and high blood pressure, can be of benefit in preventing these attacks.
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