Full-blown agony: my battle against the mysterious pain of cluster headaches
The Guardian••health
Key Points:
- Cluster headaches are a rare but intensely painful condition affecting about 1 in 1,000 people, typically causing severe, recurring pain around one eye in seasonal bouts or chronically, often accompanied by symptoms like red eyes and drooping eyelids.
- Diagnosis is frequently delayed due to symptom overlap with other headaches and the episodic nature of attacks; detailed patient history and recognition of specific signs are crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
- Effective treatments include high-flow oxygen therapy and triptan injections, with preventive options like verapamil and nerve blocks; however, access to oxygen therapy remains limited despite its proven efficacy.
- Patient experiences highlight the profound impact on quality of life, including social and occupational challenges, and underscore the need for greater awareness among healthcare
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