Calcium-channel blockers, commonly used to treat high blood pressure and heart disease, are important drugs for preventing episodic and chronic cluster headaches. Verapamil (Calan) is the standard calcium-channel blocker used for cluster headache prevention. It can take 2 - 3 weeks to have a full effect, and a corticosteroid drug may be used in combination during this transitional period. Constipation is a common side effect.
People taking...
Read moreDr. Todd Eisner answers some questions readers have posted in the last few weeks. Find new information on natural remedies for heartburn,... Read more »
Full Question: I have been dealing with rather bizarre and intense headaches for the last 8 years. So that you know what I am dealing... Read more »
Full Question: Is there anything I can do to prevent a cluster headache? Is there anything I can do to relieve the pain while it is... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
SymptomsCluster headaches usually strike suddenly and without warning, although some people have a migraine-type aura before the attack. The pain is... Read more »
Source: Medifocus Guidebook on: Cluster Headache
Headaches are classified as either primary or secondary. Primary headaches are those that are not caused by any disease or other medical condition.... Read more »
Source: Medifocus Guidebook on: Cluster Headache
Goals of Treatment for Cluster HeadachesThe goals of treatment for cluster headache include: Control of pain in acute attacks Prevention of... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
Cluster HeadachesCluster headaches are among the most painful, and least common, of all headaches. The pain can be so excruciating that they are... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
Many patients report a delay of 1 - 6 years in the diagnosis of their cluster headaches. Migraine-like symptoms (light and sound sensitivity, aura,... Read more »