Cluster Headaches

Cluster headaches occur predominantly in men, affecting them by a six to one ration. Many men who experience cluster headaches are heavy smokers or drinkers. These headaches come in groups lasting weeks or months, then the victim may go for months or years without pain. The pain is extremely severe, but each attack is relatively short - generally lasting no more than an hour or two. The pain is generally centered around one eye. The affected eye may water or become red and the nose may run. The headache may occur at roughly the same time every day. Attacks will often awaken the sufferer 1 to 2 hours after falling asleep. Alcohol can often trigger these attacks.