Cluster headache is a type of severe, recurring pain that is
located on one side of the head. It received its name from the
clustering, or pattern, of frequent headaches that usually
occur. There are two main types of cluster headaches: - Episodic
cluster headaches—These occur one or more times daily for
multiple weeks. The headaches then enter a period of remission
and come back months or years later. - Chronic cluster
headaches—These occur almost daily with headache-free periods
lasting less than one month. Either type of headache may convert
to the other type. The cause of cluster headaches is not known.
It is thought that there is abnormal activation of the area of
the brain that is responsible for regulating temperature, blood
pressure, hormone release, and sleep. The pain is thought to be
caused by a combination of widening of the blood vessels and
inflammation of the nerves of the face. possible causes include:
- Alcohol use - Changes in barometric pressure - Changes in
sleep pattern - Tobacco use Drug