Cluster Headache Treatment - Natural Remedies for Relief

Are you seeking natural cluster headache treatment and remedies?

First and foremost, what are cluster headaches?

About Cluster Headaches

Cluster headaches are a type of vascular headache that actually consist of several pain points in a cluster. Considered rare, the root of cluster headaches is still unclear. Though it is believed there are abnormalities concerning the autonomic nervous system, it is also believed it could be a disturbance with the neurotransmitter serotonin.

Cluster headaches generally come on suddenly, giving no warning other than a slight discomfort lasting approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Some complain of a burning sensation on the side of the head before the headache, usually occurring at the same time every day. Many suffer during the night or early in the morning; some are even awakened by it.

The pain of cluster headaches are often described as being severe, intense and / or piercing, and either constant or throbbing with an in and out intensity. It is said cluster headaches are so intense, even to touch the scalp can be painful and sufferers find it hard to sit still. The pain can come from one side of the head, and then change to the other side with a new series of attacks, though it is often a pain localized behind the eye or surrounding area.

A cluster headache is called 'suicide headache' due to its severe intensity and 'alarm clock headache' because of its punctuality. Cluster headache pain often radiates from the upper teeth, through the jaw and down the neck. Drink water - hydration is essential as part of cluster headache treatment and prevention.

Remedies and Treatment for Cluster Headaches

Cluster headache treatment requires all of one's effort. It must start in an attempt to get the situation under control with the first attack - getting as much relief as you can in the least amount of time. This is called an abortive measure and needs to take place in less than 15 minutes. One of the best ways to accomplish this is with pure oxygen. Many find that the rapid inhalation for 10 to 20 minutes gives them this edge.

Periods of cluster headaches often begin when there has been a change in pattern, particularly the regularity of the sleep schedule. Be sure to follow normal routines during cluster headache periods. As part of cluster headache treatment for relief, avoid such things as alcohol - beer and wine, which tends to trigger headaches, quickly, actually.

Take care to limit your exposure to substances like oil-based paints, solvents or gasoline. This goes for tobacco products as well, particularly during periods when headaches are clustering. Certain medicines can trigger headaches, as can nitrates found in smoked or processed meats.

Because the clusters can be so intense, many physicians do not recommend alternative methods such as chiropractic therapy, acupressure, acupuncture or homeopathy for cluster headache treatment. However, there are some supplements that do seem to make a difference. Melatonin (a neurotransmitter) is one of them, as it seems to be lacking in those suffering the headaches.

Researchers believe magnesium helps, as this mineral seems to be low in sufferers of cluster headaches. Cluster headache patients also find relief through a reduction in a chemical known as substance P. The presence of the chemical capsaicin (found in chilies such as cayenne pepper) can help in this area.

One of the main active ingredients of ginkgo biloba is terpenoid, which works with the body to improve blood flow, particularly to the brain, by maintaining dilation in the vessels. For this reason, it is thought to be beneficial for headaches, including for cluster headache treatment.

Kudzu has also been used for its ability to improve blood flow, though it targets the cerebral part of the brain and can help with the severity as well as the duration of a cluster period.

For more ideas on headache remedies which can be used as part of cluster headache treatment, read the other related headache articles and pages.

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