Learning how to treat cluster headaches is very important since they are very painful.These types of headaches are similar to migraines in that they can cause sudden pain.They aren't typically light sensitive and cause the person to feel restless, pace around, and act desperate for relief.There are ways to effectively treat cluster headaches.If you suffer from cluster headaches, it's a good idea to talk to your doctor about treatment options.
Step 1: Breathable oxygen.
If you are having a cluster headaches, inhaling 100% oxygen through a mask is one of the most effective methods of immediate relief.If you want to use this method correctly, you need to inhale pure oxygen at a rate of 7 liters per minute through a small oxygen mask attached to an oxygen tank that your doctor prescribes for you.Simply breathe through the mask.This method of treatment has very few side effects for those who use it.Getting access to oxygen in the first place is the most challenging aspect of using this method.You will need to discuss this option with your doctor so that they can prescribe a portable oxygen tank and mask for you.
Step 2: A triptan injection is recommended.
When used in moderation, triptans can help reduce the symptoms of migraines.A triptan injection is usually administered in the doctor's office.These drugs are available in pill and spray form, but are less effective for treating cluster headaches.If you have high blood pressure or heart disease, don't use sumatriptan.
Step 3: You can try a local anesthesia.
Local anesthetics like lidocaine have been effective in treating cluster headaches.The medication must be given through the nose by a doctor.If you are having chronic cluster headaches, talk to your doctor about this option.
Step 4: A calcium channel blocker is needed.
One of the most effective lines of defense against cluster headaches is the calcium channel blocker.It can be used for a long time in pill form.Discuss this solution with your doctor.Verapamil can be combined with other drugs.There are some side effects of this kind of medication.
Step 5: It is possible to try the drug corticosteroids.
If you are having trouble with long periods of headaches, your doctor may prescribe a steroid.These drugs can be very effective in reducing the effects of cluster headaches.Steroids can have serious side effects, so they may not be a good long-term solution for cluster headaches.Discuss these side effects with your doctor if you are interested.
Step 6: It's time to start a regimen.
When other methods have not worked, lith carbonate can be used to prevent and minimize cluster headaches.Discuss with your doctor whether or not the carbonate could work for you.Discuss the possible side effects of taking a drug with your doctor.
Step 7: Take melatonin every day.
Cluster headaches can be caused by bad sleep patterns.Taking a small dose of melatonin each day can help people with cluster headaches.Take melatonin at night.melatonin is a sleep aid and you should only take it at night.Discuss it with your doctor before you start taking it.
Step 8: Alcohol and nicotine should be stopped.
People who smoke a lot of cigarettes are more likely to have cluster headaches.If you consume either of these frequently, cutting back or stopping completely may prevent you from getting headaches.If your headaches tend to happen during a certain time of day, week, or year, you're more likely to get headaches if you consume alcohol or nicotine.
Step 9: Meditate.
Stress can be a cause of cluster headaches.Take a few minutes each day to clear your head if you think your stress level tends to be high.Your cluster headaches may be less frequent if you try this.Exercise can help you deal with stress.
Step 10: It's important to recognize the symptoms.
There is little advance warning of cluster headaches.They are called cluster headaches because they happen in a series, at the same time each day, or during a specific time of year.If you feel pain behind or around one eye, you may be suffering from a cluster headaches.There are a number of common symptoms, including excessive tearing, redness, and droopiness in your eye on the affected side.
Step 11: Make a record of your symptoms.
Write down what kind of pain you feel, how severe it is, and where the pain is located.You should note any other symptoms that may be related to your headaches.Recording your symptoms will allow you to discuss your condition with your doctor.
Step 12: Speak to your doctor.
A doctor can discuss your symptoms and make a plan for pain management.Identifying the cause will be something your doctor can help with.Your doctor may recommend that you have an exam.Your doctor can conduct a neurological examination to determine if or not you are having cluster headaches.The tests could include reflexes, nerves, or senses.