Behaviour during a cluster headache

Abstract

Because cluster headache is short-lasting and tends to occur during the early morning hours, physicians rarely witness an attack. Accurate diagnosis is important because effective treatments are available. The diagnosis is made from the history of temporal pattern, reddening and tearing of the affected eye, and ipsilateral nasal congestion. An additional diagnostic aid is to invite patients to demonstrate how they respond to attacks. The pain, one of the worst known, causes extreme restlessness. 50 patients showed how they walk around, sit (or kneel) and rock, and clutch the affected side of the head. Diagnostic value apart, the patient will often be relieved to learn that bizarre behavioural responses are not a mark of insanity.