Cluster headaches are very painful headaches that come and go in a group pattern. They may dissipate and reappear for hours at a time, or in some cases weeks to months at a time, but they are always reoccurring. These headaches are rare in teens and children, but can sometimes be misdiagnosed as a migraine due to the similar symptoms.
Causes
Cluster headaches are normally diagnosed in patients in middle age, but according to Oregon Health and Science University, teens who exhibit signs of cluster headaches are usually adolescent males. While the exact cause of cluster headaches are unknown, Mayo Clinic reveals that hypothalamus abnormalities may be the culprit. Genetics may also play a role as cluster headaches seem to effect families.
Symptoms
Cluster headaches are usually rapid on their onset and strike without warning. The sharp pain is usually on one side of the head and commonly affects an eye. It is not uncommon to see the affected side swollen and the eye droopy. Cluster headaches can mimic migraine headaches with their ability to cause visual disturbances, nausea and vomiting. The most important symptom is the "cluster" period where you have many headaches during one session followed by a period free from attacks. Teens who have cluster headaches are usually restless during the attacks and exhausted when they are over.
Diagnosis
It can be tricky to diagnose a cluster headache, but if your teen is having multiple headaches concentrated during certain times, you should notify a physician. Neurological tests as well as imaging tests may be done. A computed tomography (CT) scan or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan are two of the regular imaging tests ordered for headaches. Headaches can indicate serious problems, so it is important that you know your symptoms well so that the correct diagnosis is reached.
Treatment
Unfortunately, if your teen is diagnosed with cluster headaches, there is no treatment. A physician can provide oxygen or drugs to help manage the pain during a session of headaches, but due to the frequency and quickness of onset, this is usually not very helpful. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke states that in extreme cases the occipital nerve can be electrically stimulated. This prevents the brain from signaling the nerves of the pain and can help with pain management. On occasion, your care provider may suggest lifestyle changes that may be beneficial to your teen, but overall, there is no cure for cluster headaches.
