Cluster headaches take their name from the fact that they usually occur in "clusters," or in a series, during a specific period that can last a few weeks, explains the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Sufferers then enjoy a period of remission free of any cluster headache symptoms until the next series of headaches begins. Approximately 1 million Americans suffer from cluster headaches, according to the American College of Physicians, and these headaches occur more frequently in men, especially among smokers.
"Alarm Clock" Symptoms
Cluster headache symptoms usually appear with a certain regularity, with onset occurring at or near the same time on successive days. For this reason, some refer to cluster headaches as "alarm clock" headaches, explain Dr. Ellen Beck and her colleagues in an article published in "American Family Physician" in February 2005. While cluster headaches may occur at any time during the day, they usually begin between two and three hours after a person falls asleep during the rapid eye movement (REM), or dreaming, phase of sleep. Cluster headache symptoms often reappear several times during the course of a day, according to the American College of Physicians, with one to four attacks occurring.
Pain Symptoms
Some describe the excruciating pain symptoms associated with cluster headaches as "stabbing" or "hot poker" sensations, note Dr. Beck and colleagues. The pain symptoms begin suddenly and frequently awaken those who might be asleep at the time. The pain occurs on one side of the head and may extend to the jaw or even as far as the neck. Some people experience pain symptoms in the area behind or around one eye. In most cases, the pain associated with a cluster headache increases to its maximum intensity within five to 10 minutes, then remains at this threshold for as long as three hours before subsiding.
Eye, Nose and Skin Symptoms
Cluster headache symptoms may include redness in the eye on the same side as the pain or swelling around or under one or both eyes. The eyes may produce an excessive amount of tears. A person may experience nasal congestion or a stuffy nose on the same side as the pain, or he might have a runny nose. Some people become flushed in the face during a cluster headache attack, and some may sweat from the forehead or face.
