G44.0
DESCRIPTION
Repetitive episodes of excruciating headache typically of short duration (up to 2 hours) in clusters for weeks to months at a time. Typically, the headache is of sudden onset, unilateral during the specific cluster, and quickly reaches a climax. Associated redness of the eye with lacrimation and rhinorrhoea occurs.
MEDICINE TREATMENT
- Oxygen inhalation may abort some episodes.
Analgesics are ineffective.
To induce rapid remission in patients with episodic cluster headache:
- Corticosteroids (intermediate-acting) e.g.:
- Prednisone, oral, 40 mg daily for 5–10 days.
- Tapering is not necessary when the above duration is used.
Prophylaxis
- Verapamil, oral, 40–80 mg 12 hourly.
REFERRAL
Inadequate response to treatment.