Cluster headache

Cluster headache (CH) is included under section 3 - Trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias (TAC) of the International Headache Society (IHS) classification. It is one of the most frequent, painful, and disabling primary headaches.

AKA histaminic migraine. Actually a neurovascular event, distinct from true migraine.

Cluster headache belongs to a group of primary headache disorders, classified as the trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias or (TACs). Cluster headache is named after the demonstrated grouping of headache attacks occurring together (cluster).

Cluster headaches may also be known as histamine headache, red migraine, Horton’s headache, and cephalalgia or sphenopalatine neuralgia.

Male: female ratio is ≈ 5:1. 25% of patients have a personal or family history of migraine. ¹⁾.

Cluster headache (CH) is a primary headache disorder classified under Trigeminal Autonomic Cephalalgias (TACs) in the International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD), currently in its third edition (ICHD-3). Below is the classification and key features of cluster headache:

1. Episodic Cluster Headache

Definition: Attacks occur in clusters lasting from 7 days to 1 year. Followed by a remission period of at least 3 months.

2. Chronic Cluster Headache

Definition: Attacks occur for more than 1 year without remission or with remission periods shorter than 3 months.