Cluster Headache

Described as more painful than a migraine and even more painful than giving birth, the cluster headache is, without doubt, one of the worst headaches that can be experienced. The most distressing thing about cluster headaches are that they can recur several times a day over a period of one day to several months and just when you think that one has gone, it can materialise again, causing more pain and discomfort.

So what is a cluster headache? Well, as the name suggests, it is a headache that affects one area or cluster of the head, usually associated with a drooping eyelid, watery eyes and blocked nasal passages on one side of the face. Unfortunately, because the cause of cluster headaches is unknown, it has proven difficult to produce an effective remedy to alleviate the symptoms. However, it has been possible to find relief without having to resort to the use of prescription drugs or medicines available over the counter. One thing to bear in mind when you use homeopathic remedies though is that they can only treat the symptoms of headaches, so you will need to identify what it is that actually causes the cluster headache. Or what triggers it.

Some triggers of a cluster headache could be:

• Stress
• Chemical imbalances in the brain
• Food allergies

If you've discovered that your cluster headache only appears after eating certain foods, then the obvious solution is to simply avoid that food as much as possible to stop it triggering the headache.

If an imbalance in chemicals has been identified as the trigger for your cluster headache, then it has been found that the inclusion of more vitamin c and essential fatty acids might help to prevent (they won't treat) the headache. There is some belief that rosemary and valerian may be of some value in helping to prevent cluster headaches or at least cutting down on the length of their attacks when they occur.

If the cluster headache is found to be triggered by stress, you may avoid another attack by removing yourself form people, places and situations that are known to cause stress. If you find that your everyday lives makes it impossible to avoid stressful surroundings or situations, try calming yourself down by taking a walk or doing some breathing or stretching exercises. Maybe a class in yoga could help with this? Another form of stress busting you could do is listening to calming music or by introducing aromatherapy into your life. This can easily be done by keeping a small bowl of potpourri scented with aromatherapy oils or by using headphones to allow you to listen to your favorite piece of Mozart, Beyonce or Aerosmith, whatever your choice of calming music is.

Remember, natural headache remedies all work differently for people. To help relieve the pain of a cluster headaches, you need to experiment to find out which one provides the best relief. Above all else, if the symptoms of your recurring cluster headache persist or they are very painful, it is best to seek medical advice and consult your doctor.

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