Cluster headaches are one of the most painful forms of headaches, according to MayoClinic.com. These headaches are characterized by intense pain in or around the eyes and on one side of the head that lasts for a period of time, such as weeks or months, before disappearing. Women that are pregnant and suffer from a cluster headache can seek home remedies for the pain. Consult a health care professional before taking any herb or medication when pregnant.
Rest
When a cluster headache strikes it can be sudden and disappear quickly. Lying down in a cool, dark area and trying to nap can reduce the length of time the pain exists and even the intensity. MayoClinic.com suggests keeping to a regular sleep schedule to prevent the headaches from occurring. When a headache strikes, place a cold towel on the site of the pain. This may reduce the intensity. If the cold temperature makes the pain worse, try a warm cloth or simply put a small amount of pressure on the area.
Avoid Triggers
Alcohol is a known trigger for cluster headaches and should be avoided, especially when pregnant. Some strong odors or foods can trigger cluster headaches for women. Pregnancy makes some women more sensitive to scents and tastes. When pregnant it may be helpful to carry a cloth sprinkled with lemon juice or a favorite essential oil to sniff when an offending odor is present.
Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper, also known as capsaicin, has been a long standing pain-reliever. Mixing 8 ounces of warm water with a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to create "pepper tea" once or twice per day may reduce the pain of cluster headaches and diminish their frequency. Cayenne pepper is thought to reduce inflammation of blood vessels, the cause of the pain experienced during any headache. The University of Maryland Medical Center points out that when applied up the nose, capsaicin can be an effective cluster headache remedy. This procedure should be done under the supervision of a health care professional or qualified herbalist. Typically the cayenne pepper is mixed with water and placed inside a nasal spray bottle or suctioned with a liquid dropper.
Exercise
Some women are able to calm a cluster headache by getting a little exercise when symptoms occur. This may include taking a short walk or doing prenatal yoga. It is possible that exercise will exacerbate pain. If this occurs, try resting instead. Typically exercise helps speed blood flow and release endorphins, natural pain relieving chemicals within the body. The American Pregnancy Association points out that relaxation techniques, such as yoga, can alleviate migraine headaches. This may apply to cluster headaches but the only way to determine this is for each woman to try it for herself.
