Triggers of cluster headache

Cluster Headache

Cluster headache is a special type of headache. This neurological disease affects men more than women and features with extremely intensive pain. The pain may be so severe that patients bang their heads against the wall and do not know what medication to take to ease the pain. In all people who are suffering from cluster headaches the pain is localized on one half of the head and is accompanied by increased production of tears and runny nose on ispsilateral side.

The average year of patients ranges from 20 to 40. Cluster headache occurs from time to time and between two attacks there is remission of the disease. The actual cause of cluster headaches has not been found yet. The attacks most commonly occur in the spring or autumn. Today some people who are suffering from cluster headache say that they are aware of the potential triggers of the headache.

Triggers of Cluster Headaches

Definitely, the leading trigger of this type of headache is alcohol consumption. Beer and red wine can be powerful triggers of the headache in general and they most certainly can lead to cluster headache. Cluster headache can occur even a short period of time after a person has drunk alcoholic beverage.

Another trigger of cluster headache can be chocolate. Even other foods containing chocolate can lead to cluster headaches. Dark chocolate can be a trigger of even more intensive headaches.

In people suffering from cluster headaches an attack can be induced by consumption of processed meat. Products such as smoked sausages, wieners or cold cuts are an excellent source of certain substances which can initiate the headache.

The onset of cluster headache can be additionally caused by sudden and unexpected change in temperature. This occurs during cold months when people often come in and leave warm office and flats.

Cigars and cigarettes is another potential trigger of cluster headaches. The tobacco cannot actually initiate the attack. On the other hand, it may prolong the attack or even increase the intensity of the pain. This refers to smokers. People who do not smoke may experience cluster headache caused by the very odor of tobacco.

Even strong odors, perfumes and cologne can be a trigger of cluster headache.

And finally, stress is one of the extremely powerful triggers not only of cluster headache but also of so many other medical conditions. Reduction in everyday stress can actually reduce the frequency of the attacks.

Every person suffering from cluster headache will probably figure out what leads to the attack and just by avoiding potential triggers he/ she will successfully decrease the frequency of the attacks.