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What Causes Cluster Headaches?
Question: I suffer from cluster headaches. Usual bouts last a few days to a week. I take midrin to get rid of them this sometimes works well along with oxygen therapy to get rid of the headaches sometimes I will need Methylprednisolone when they persist pass a week. This has always worked for me. The current bout has lasted 3 weeks, I have tried those three things and still my headaches have persisted. I have pressure now in my forehead and back of my head near my neck that has lasted the three weeks. What else can I do to relieve my pain.
Brief Answer:
Triptans if you do not have high BP or previous heart disease
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
I understand how irritating would be an episode of cluster headache. This was always challenging for neurologist to treat an acute episode.
The literature is clear about the use of following for quick relief:
1) Injectable zolmitriptan (any triptan), the dose can depend up on various triptans (rizatriptan or sumatriptan). You can ask your doctor/ ER what is their view about injectables. Please use caution if you are under treatment for high BP or previous history of angina. These are prescription medications, so your doctor has to be involved.
2) Sometimes I have seen a few neurologist using local lidocaine sprays in the nostrils if this does not relieve.
A mild massage with tips of fingers over the neck muscles may help.
Shall keep you posted if I know any.
Triptans if you do not have high BP or previous heart disease
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
I understand how irritating would be an episode of cluster headache. This was always challenging for neurologist to treat an acute episode.
The literature is clear about the use of following for quick relief:
1) Injectable zolmitriptan (any triptan), the dose can depend up on various triptans (rizatriptan or sumatriptan). You can ask your doctor/ ER what is their view about injectables. Please use caution if you are under treatment for high BP or previous history of angina. These are prescription medications, so your doctor has to be involved.
2) Sometimes I have seen a few neurologist using local lidocaine sprays in the nostrils if this does not relieve.
A mild massage with tips of fingers over the neck muscles may help.
Shall keep you posted if I know any.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj
Answered by
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