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Cluster Headache

Also called: Horton's Headache, Migrainous Neuralgia, Sphenopalatine Neuralgia, Red Migraine, Cephalalgia Neuralgia

- Summary
- About cluster headaches
- Types and differences
- Risk factors and causes
- Signs and symptoms
- Diagnosis methods
- Treatment and prevention
- Ongoing research
- Questions for your doctor

Reviewed By:
Vikas Garg, M.D., MSA

Ongoing research regarding cluster headaches

A number of studies on cluster headache are being conducted. Medications being studied include:

  • Triptans, including nasal sprays

  • Melatonin, a hormone

  • Capsaicin, a cream used to deplete the neurotransmitters that help emit pain

  • Anti-seizure medications

  • Botulinum toxin type A, a drug used primarily to reduce the appearance of wrinkles

  • LSD (d-lysergic acid diethylamide) and psilocybin, an ingredient in hallucinogenic mushrooms

An occipital nerve block may abort an acute attack, but research is still exploring the mechanism of this.

Researchers are also investigating the use of electrical stimulation to treat cluster headaches. A number of studies are focused on testing a pacemaker-sized stimulator. When implanted over the occipital nerve, the device sends impulses that influence the trigeminal nerve. Experts believe the stimulator may cause the headaches to subside, allowing a patient to be free of pain for months. Additional research is examining the effect of placing a stimulator in the hypothalamus. This method is believed to produce long-term pain relief in people with severe, chronic cluster headaches.

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Review Date: 01-12-2007

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