Cluster headache: causes, symptoms and treatment with medical oxygen

Cluster headaches are one of the most severe types of pain known and severely impact the lives of those affected. These severe, one-sided attacks of pain can occur daily and often last between 15 minutes and three hours. For many patients, oxygen therapy is one of the most effective immediate treatments. In this article, you'll learn all about the causes, symptoms, and, specifically, the use of medical oxygen as a treatment.

Symptoms of cluster headaches

Extreme, stabbing pain, usually behind one eye
Side effects such as watery or red eyes, runny nose and sweating
Restlessness and the need to move during attacks

The attacks often occur at specific times of the day or night and occur in so-called "clusters" that can last for several weeks. Between these phases, those affected are often completely symptom-free.

Causes and triggers

The exact cause of cluster headaches is not yet fully understood. A malfunction in the hypothalamus, an area of the brain that controls biological rhythms, is suspected. Possible triggers that can promote attacks include:

Alcohol or nicotine
lack of sleep
Stress or strong light stimuli

Oxygen therapy for cluster headaches

One of the most effective acute treatments for cluster headaches is oxygen therapy . Many sufferers report that high-dose, medical-grade oxygen can relieve pain within minutes.

How does oxygen therapy work?

During an attack, sufferers inhale 100% oxygen through a special mask with a reservoir system. The treatment usually lasts 10 to 20 minutes. The oxygen works by constricting blood vessels and improving oxygen supply to the brain, thereby reducing pain attacks.

Benefits of oxygen therapy

Fast acting (often within minutes)
Well tolerated and free of side effects, unlike medication
Suitable for many patients in combination with other therapies

Oxygen devices are compact and can be used at home or on the go. A doctor's prescription is required to obtain access to medical-grade oxygen.

Other treatment approaches

In addition to oxygen therapy, there are other effective treatment options:

Acute therapy

Triptans: Injections or nasal sprays often work within 15 minutes.
Lidocaine nasal sprays: An alternative for those with intolerance to triptans.

prophylaxis

Verapamil: A drug that prevents cluster headaches.
Lithium or corticosteroids: Suitable for severe cases.
Neuromodulation: Modern procedures such as vagus nerve stimulation offer additional options.

Help for those affected

For people who suffer from cluster headaches, lifestyle adjustments can help reduce the frequency of attacks:

Avoid known triggers such as alcohol or severe stress.
Maintain a regular sleep schedule.
Use relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga.

Exchange in self-help groups can also be an important source of support.

Conclusion: Oxygen therapy as the key to relief

Cluster headaches are among the most debilitating neurological disorders, but modern treatments such as oxygen therapy offer many sufferers rapid and effective relief. When combined with other approaches such as triptans or prophylactic medications, quality of life can be significantly improved.

Find out more now: Talk to a specialist about medical oxygen and other treatment options for cluster headaches. This way, you can actively contribute to relieving your symptoms and improving your quality of life.