CLUSTER HEADACHE
A case of cluster headache can be excellently treated with the help of gentle homeopathic medicines which are prescribed to a patient on the basis of holistic and individualistic approach.
Homeopathic medicines being harmless, don’t cause any side effects to the health of an individual suffering from this condition, it rather aids healing that is permanent in nature. It works on the constitution of the patient and this is why it is considered to be effective one.
Brief
In cluster headache, patient experiences cycles of headache attacks, followed by headache free periods. A bout of regular attacks, known as cluster period can last for a few days, weeks, or months.
Pain from cluster headache can be extremely severe.
It mostly affects one side of the head and the area around the eyes.
Types of cluster headache
- Episodic
That occurs regularly between one week and 3 months, followed by a headache free period of one month or more than that.
- Chronic
That occurs regularly for longer than one year, followed by a headache free period which lasts less than one month.
Episodic cluster may develop into chronic clusters too.
Cluster period consists of
- Daily occurrence, with symptoms appearing frequently each day
- One attack lasting from 15 minutes to upto 3 hours
- Attacks that occur around the same time each day
- Attacks mostly occurring at night
Cause
According to the research studies, hyperactivity at the level of hypothalamus is the reason thought to be responsible for this condition. It releases certain chemicals which cause dilatation of blood vessels (which supply blood to the brain and face as well).
Which may be responsible for the pain in case of cluster headache.
The cyclical nature of the cluster headache suggests that they are linked with biological clock, which is greatly maintained by hypothalamus.
Triggers
- Alcohol consumption
- Smoking
- Disturbed sleep
- Disturbed body temperature
- Genetic predisposition/family history
Clinical features
- Intense pain that begins rapidly without warning
- Continuous, sharp, stabbing, penetrating type of pain around or in the eyes
- Pain radiating from eyes to other parts of head, face, neck. It may remain on one side of the head.
- Drooping of eyelids on affected side
- Constricted pupil
- Excessive lachrymation
- Redness
- Swelling under or around one or both the eyes
- Stuffy nose
- Nausea
- Sensitivity towards light (photophobia)
- Restlessness
Difference between migraine and cluster headache
- Duration of pain
A cluster headache lasts about 30 to 90/180 minutes. While migraine lasts longer often the entire day or may extend up to several days if not treated properly.
- Location of pain
Cluster headache involve only one side of the head, typically around the eyes.
While migraine pain vary in location, developing on just one side of the head, behind the eyes, in the back or front of the head, or pain may be felt throughout the entire head.
Homeopathic treatment
A consultant homeopath sees to the core part of the case. He/she understands the themes and with his nurtured and evolved skills, he uniquely perceives the case from deeper perspectives, and proceeds for case analysis and case evaluation which leads to finest prescription, capable of delivering healing to the patient.
Spigelia, sanguniaria, kali bich, lac fel, gelsemium, ignatia, nat mur, belladonna, cedron, etc are well indicated homeopathic remedies for cluster headache.
But, only an apt medicine is administered to the patient after a complete and thorough homeopathic case taking.
Integrated approach
Along with homeopathic medicines, we at DR MANKADS’ CLINIC equally emphasize on the importance of changes in the lifestyle and diet.
We guide the patient about introducing certain exercises in their routine, practicing yoga and meditation.
Reiki treatment can also be given in case of need.