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Cluster Headache Treatment

Cluster Headaches (sometimes referred to as cluster migraines) are a rare type of severe headache that affect around 0.1% of the population, according to the International Headache Society. While they are rare, it does affect males 3-4 times more frequently than females.

Despite being uncommon, Cluster Headaches are regarded as being the most severe and debilitating type of primary headaches. Research has shown Cluster Headaches frequently described as having the highest pain levels, out of all 300 different types of headache and migraine. Cluster Headache attacks occur in cycles, and will often wake sufferers during the night, or at regular times during the day. Attacks generally last between 15-180 minutes, and can happen multiple times per day, or once every couple of days. 

People who suffer from Cluster Headaches generally experience periods of attacks, or “cluster periods” that can last weeks or months. A cluster period is followed by a period of remission which can last weeks, months or even years. The pain is often severe, on one-side of the head, and generally around the eye and/or temple region. Cluster Headaches have adopted the nickname, ‘suicide headaches’ due to their severe and debilitating nature. Our cluster headache/ cluster migraine treatment is safe, non-invasive, and medication-free. Get relief today!

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Understanding Your Symptoms

What are the symptoms of Cluster Headaches?

Cluster Headaches are often severe enough that a sufferer cannot keep still during an attack. They may pace back and forth, have to take a shower, or even resort to banging their head in an attempt to reduce the pain.

 

Symptoms commonly associated with Cluster Headache include:

  • Severe pain around one eye, that can radiate further around the face or neck
  • Restlessness, shortness of breath and/or a sweaty face
  • Watery/teary eyes or eye redness
  • Swollen or droopy eyelids
  • Runny or congested nose
  • Pale or flushed skin
  • Pain is unilateral, or affects only one side

 

What are the risk factors?

  • Men are 5-6 times more likely to experience cluster headaches
  • Sufferers are generally heavy smokers
  • Higher alcohol consumption may trigger cluster headaches
  • Cluster Headaches most commonly affect people aged 20-50, but can occur at any age
  • People with family members who are sufferers may be at a higher risk
symptoms-of Headache

Understanding Your Headache

What causes Cluster Headaches?

Historically, it was believed that cluster headaches, as well as migraines, were caused by the dilation of blood vessels in the head, causing pain. This was thought because acute treatment medications, like triptans, act as effective pain relief if taken early enough in an attack. It was believed that triptans prevent this vessel dilation. However, recent research has shown that Cluster Headache and migraine sufferers do not experience blood vessel dilation at any different levels to people who do not suffer. So, how do these medications work?

Modern research has shown that Cluster Headaches and migraines arise from increased sensitivity in the central nervous system, more specifically, a sensitised brainstem which is located in the upper cervical spine (the upper neck). Faults in the upper neck can lead to this sensitised brainstem, which then can refer severe pain and associated symptoms into the head and face.

Triptan medication has also more recently been shown to desensitise the brainstem, as well as its original purpose of constricting blood vessels in the head. This would explain why they work, as well as identifying a sensitised brainstem and the cervical spine as a cause of cluster headaches.

About The Assessment Stage

What To Expect During The Assessment


1. Comprehensive and in-depth examination

We will perform a thorough and in-depth examination to identify all of the factors that may be related to your headaches and migraines. We will focus particularly on your upper cervical spine in our assessment.



2. Ligamental stability and vertebral arterial tests

In order to ensure the highest level of safety is maintained, we routinely will assess the stability of the important ligaments in your upper cervical spine, prior to any assessment or treatment.


3. Temporarily reproduce your headache and migraine symptoms

During our assessment and treatment process, we will be applying gentle and specific pressure to your upper cervical spine in order to temporarily reproduce your headache symptoms. This helps us to identify the specific cause of your headaches.

More about Cluster Headache

Episodic Cluster Headache

Cluster Headaches most commonly occur episodically. This is when sufferers experience bouts of “cluster periods” that can last for weeks or months, followed by an extended period in remission that can last up to years. They can occur seasonally or at set times each year. Episodic Cluster Headaches account for up to 80% of all Cluster Headaches

Chronic Cluster Headache

When Cluster Headaches occur without a prolonged period of remission, it is called  Chronic Cluster headache. Sufferers from chronic cluster headaches often have cluster periods that will last over a year. While they may have days without attacks, the remissions will not last longer than a month.

Diagnosis– Cluster Headaches Treatment Gold Coast

How are cluster headaches diagnosed?

Cluster headaches are usually diagnosed through a comprehensive evaluation that includes your medical history, symptoms, and a physical examination. When you see the healthcare professional, they will inquire about the nature, frequency, and intensity of your headaches, as well as any family history of similar issues. They may also perform a physical examination to look for signs of neurological problems. Keeping a headache diary can be useful for tracking your symptoms, including any triggers or factors that provide relief.

While imaging tests like MRI or CT scans are not typically required, they might be ordered to exclude other potential causes. Treatment response can also help confirm the diagnosis; if medications such as triptans or oxygen therapy are effective, it supports the likelihood of cluster headaches. If you’re experiencing persistent or severe headaches, seeking prompt medical attention is essential for accurate diagnosis and proper management.

 

What is your clinic’s approach to treating Cluster Headaches?

Treatment for Cluster Headaches

While Cluster Headaches are very uncommon, they are still experienced in the Gold Coast region. The severity of symptoms causes sufferers to try a range of cluster headache treatments in an attempt to resolve them, with mixed results. Often, to treat cluster headaches they have tried; medications, occipital nerve stimulation, injection therapy, or even surgical interventions such as nerve blocks or blood vessel cauterisation.

At the Gold Coast Headache and Migraine Clinic, we aim to use the most modern research to find the root cause of your cluster headaches. If we can determine that a sensitised brainstem is the cause of your headaches, then we can use world-leading treatment techniques to address the faults in your neck and desensitise the brainstem.

We have seen plenty of Cluster Headache sufferers at our clinics, and have an 85-90% success rate with our treatment technique. The best part is that our treatment of cluster headaches is safe, non-invasive and medication-free.

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What our clients have said

Excellent
5.0
Sahan Amarasena
Sahan Amarasena
I have been seeing Sascha for about 3 weeks now. Thanks to Sascha, I have gone from 4-5 headaches a week to being headache free for over a week now. He is very knowledgeable and was quick to diagnose my problem. The treatment plan has been very clear and easy to follow at home. We have addressed all factors that are contributing to my headaches and I am confident of keeping my headaches under control thanks to the tools Sascha has taught me. Highly impressed with the team. They have been very professional, friendly and helpful throughout and been impressed with their customer service. Highly recommend these guys if you are someone who has been suffering with headache for a long time like myself.
Ana Uppman
Ana Uppman
Mattias and the staff at the clinic are wonderfully helpful and friendly. Mattias in particular helped me to manage chronic headaches and sinus effectively and naturally which has provided a huge amount of pain relief to me especially after so many years of discomfort. Thank you so much Mattias and staff.
Jesse Tamblyn
Jesse Tamblyn
Diagnosed with Vestibular Neuritis, quickly turned into vestibular migraines of a hellish level. I was hallucinating constantly, pretty much 24/7 for a entire year. With no regular symptoms of a migraine other than extreme light sensitivity, my doctor ordered all the tests, nothing was helping.After a few sessions with Sasch I have zero symptoms and none of my previous triggers are triggering any hallucinations/migraines.Sasch is increadibly skilled at what he does and is very passionate about his clients. I am forever in a debt of gratitude.
kynan jones
kynan jones
I have had cluster headaches on and off for two years now and have had no clue what to do about it, I stumbled across Brisbane migraine and headache clinic, decided to give it a go and I could not be happier with the results from Mattias. My symptoms have dropped by an easy 90% and I can enjoy my days again.Thank you Mattias and thank you Brisbane migraine and headache clinic.
Carter Bennett
Carter Bennett
So far my treatment at the Headache and Migraine clinic has been very helpful. As someone who experiences migraines often enough, I can say with confidence that after only a few months of treatment with practictioner Mattias, the frequency and severity has been reduced. Still a ways to go till Im migraine free, but I can say with confidence that this very interesting form of treatment works.
ARCHANACHOWDARY NALLAPANENI
ARCHANACHOWDARY NALLAPANENI
David is really wonderful and he is a magician. I've been suffering from migraine headaches for past three years after I met David, and his treatment is like a miracle. I've been on treatment for five weeks now and haven't had any headaches.Thank you heapsDavid
Rachel de Vera
Rachel de Vera
Best place to overcome your headache pain. This clinic will give you treatment to make your life free from migraine.
Luke Shanley
Luke Shanley
Ariel from Brisbane Migraine & Headache clinic was the only person that actually helped with my migraines. After seeing doctors & neurologists to no avail i decided to give it a go. I'm able to see friends, nieces & nephews again and working full time. This seemed impossible just over 2 months ago when I first started treatment. Gave me my life back.
Danielle Raftopoulos
Danielle Raftopoulos
I've seen Ariel for neck, back and knee pain/ injuries in the past. She does an excellent job with releasing muscles through dry needling and acupuncture which has relieves pain. Ariel provides exercises to do at home which are helpful. I've also seen all the other physios at the clinic. Highly recommend it.
Pawan Sandhu
Pawan Sandhu
I was suffering with bad migraine from last 13 years. Then I heard about Brisbane headache centre. I consulted with Dominic he is very professional and nice Physio. He find out the triggers and started my treatment since i seen him first till now I haven't had any headaches. I highly recommend people if you suffering with headache and migraine please go and consult with the team.Thanks Dominic.
Brooke O'kell
Brooke O'kell
I have had an amazing experience with Ariel at the clinic. I went there in horrific pain after been diagnosed with Trigeminal Neuralgia and I was taking 12 nerve pain tablets a day. The clinic was recommended to me by a friend and I'm so glad I gave them a try because now after a couple of months I am pain free and down to one nerve tablet a day. It's hard to explain really how grateful I really am now to be spending Christmas with my family pain free after not been able to leave the house without crying in pain. I'm would give them 100 stars if I could and I've already recommended Ariel to some friends who suffer migraines. Thank you for everything Ariel your an amazing and lovely lady who really changed my life.
Cathy Biles
Cathy Biles
I have suffered from migraines for 30 years and I have found that the treatment that I am having at Brisbane Headache and Migraine Clinic is the most effective way I’ve found in preventing a migraine. I have been having treatment with Mattias for around 4 months, and at this stage I still do get some migraines, but they are getting a lot less frequent than they were before I started having treatment. Mattias is very understanding and explains each step of the treatment very thoroughly.
Candy Beanland
Candy Beanland
Dominic is a very polite person who has helped me a great deal with my migraine headaches. I am very grateful to him.
Emma Zonca
Emma Zonca
I've had a great experience being treated by Dominic. I was recently diagnosed with Trigeminal Neuralgia and my symptoms have now massively reduced. The care and education I have received have been excellent. All staff have been welcoming and very lovely to deal with since my first appointment. I highly recommend Brisbane Headache and Migraine Clinic.
Ebony Smith
Ebony Smith
I've been receiving treatment from Mattias for a little over two months now and I cannot recommend this practice enough!!!I have been struggling with Migraine headaches and terrifying aura symptoms for 10+ years and have tried absolutely everything (from medications, diets, all sorts of treatments and multiple specialist/neurologist appointments) in order to eliminate, ease or simply manage the pain.Thank you to Mattias and the wonderful team at Brisbane Headache and Migraine Clinic for listening to my struggles with pain, understanding my issues, applying the right treatment that my body was receptive to...and most importantly.... they gave me a free jar of mints! What a DEAL!10/10 recommend.
Cassandra Guse
Cassandra Guse
2 months ago debilitating migraines were driving me crazy - and I finally snapped and called this clinic after 3 years of spending most of my spare time just resting and re-habbing my head and neck between work. I started treatments with Dominic immediately. And I am amazed to report that I haven't had a migraine since! I wish I had done it years earlier.Dominic is pleasant, thorough, very knowledgeable and holistic in his advice, picking up on things which seem unrelated but were likely contributing to my headaches - and explains everything every step of the way. I can't recommend him highly enough.
Laura O'hearn
Laura O'hearn
I have only been seeing Dominic from Brisbane Headache and Migraine Clinic for three weeks, but the change in my migraines has been dramatic. I have struggled with chronic migraines for over 20 years and I did not find daily medication helpful in controlling them. I wish I had known about Brisbane Headache and Migraine Clinic sooner as this has been a life-changing experience.
Paul Hewitt
Paul Hewitt
There could not be too much praise for the services and results produced at this Centre .I was suffering clusters of migraines and other neck pain. Went to Doctor, more medication!Decided there has to be a better way.Googled the Headache and Migraine Centre, met with Mattias, and Helen , a few visits and the relief wassignificant . Small business could take a lesson from their efficiency as well,Admin staff are all over everything, helping you to make appointment times that suit you.If you had or having similar issues to mine..........Just go there .
Chimorne Bekker
Chimorne Bekker
Special thanks to Dominic for treating me at the Brisbane Headache and Migraine Clinic. I have had roughly 11 sessions at the clinic and have been headache & migraine free for two weeks today. This may not seem very long, but it is for someone who experiences an attack every second day. My treatment is still ongoing, but the results are already promising.I also have to mention that Dominic was the first specialist to notice that my C2-C3 cervical vertebrae were rotated/disturbed and recommended that we realign the vertebrae and desensitise my brain stem. This was a relief as specialists in the past have diagnosed me with anything from ethmoid sinusitis and occipital neuralgia to labelling it as “psychosomatic“.I would highly recommend anyone suffering from migraines/headaches to arrange a consultation with Dominic.
Megan Tilley
Megan Tilley
After about 5 weeks of constant headaches, in complete desperation I contacted BHMC and within 4 sessions with Mathias, my headaches significantly reduced in severity and duration. Highly recommended!
Leo Tang
Leo Tang
I would highly recommend Dr. Dominic who treats my migraine issue i have suffered for more than 20 years. The receptionist Helen is kindly and helpful. Nice and professional people here
Jordan Hardy
Jordan Hardy
When I first booked an appointment with BHMC I was skeptical; I was in an accident a year before and suffered chronic migraines every other day. I had been told that medication was the only way to manage them until I found Mattias who explained what I had suspected and that the migraines could be managed by therapy on the neck. After seeing Mattias for a couple months I have found huge relief from the constant severe migraines. I still get them every now and then but no where near as often as before. They’re also less intense with lower durations. Mattias is super professional, friendly and keen to help where he can. He was always happy to talk through different aspects of my pain even when I’d speculate about why I’m feeling different things (as is chronic pain sufferers do). Thank you BHMC and thank you Mattias. I’ve been able to see the light at the end of the tunnel now.
Brea Dennis
Brea Dennis
Absolutely 110% highly recommend Brisbane Headache and Migraine Clinic!!! I have been to many different specialists and trying all sort of different medication and was taking aspirin with panadal pretty much every day. I have been experiencing horrible headaches and all these sharp bee sting pains in and around the eyes with electric shocks around the face. I have also experienced not so pleasant neurologists who were quite rude and didn't seem to care. Doing my research, I came across these guys and the lovely Helen was such a delight over the phone and felt very welcomed. She is beautiful inside and out. I had fantastic experience with Mattias and really took the time and explained everything. Not only is he very knowledgeable and professional, but was very kind. I no longer rely on medication and can wear my favourite scents as they used to trigger pain within seconds.I will miss them as I am moving interstate but will come see them if I'm up this way.Do yourself a favour and checks these guys out :)
Rodrigo Villanueva
Rodrigo Villanueva
I have been attending this wonderful services for approximately 3 weeks now. Mattias has been providing treatment for "Cervicogenic Vertigo". After my 1st session I noticed significant improvement, something that no other health professional has been able to do for the past 3 plus years, I have seen separate neurologists, acupuncturist, equilibrium physiotherapist, many GP's, have been send to many head scans, have had cold and warm air in my ears, I have seen a ear, nose and throat specialist and everyone had failed to do what Brisbane Headache and Migraine Clinic did from the very first session, it is still early days to my recovery but I am very grateful for the treatment that I have so far received from Mattias and the team, I have been able to do simple things that in the past 3 years was impossible, otherwise I would have been very unwell and completely written off. I would highly recommend seeking treatment from Brisbane Headache and Migraine Clinic, I was wrongly diagnosed a number of times, given lots of medication and I am very much looking forward and hopefully one day with the assistance of Mattias moving forward in my recovery.
Monique Finlayson
Monique Finlayson
After way too many years of dealing with migraines and shoulder pain, I decided it was appropriate to go and seek another type of natural pain treatment to eliminate my pain and medication altogether - which is exactly the outcome I have received! I started seeing Ariel for my chronic migraine treatment 2 months ago and during this time my neck and shoulder are feeling great and my migraines are basically a thing of the past (If you suffer with migraines, this relief is life changing!) Ariel was able to assess me and explain her findings very simply- yet professionally! She is dedicated and takes care and time to treat and know her patients. The reception staff are lovely and efficient and the clinic is run very promptly! I will continue to visit Ariel for treatment indefinitely and highly recommend visiting this clinic if you are experiencing severe pain and would like a chance at treating it effectively!
Jeff Patterson
Jeff Patterson
Bertrand provides a unique service like no other. I’ve had every headache treatment there is but there has only ever been 1-2 types of treatments that have provided positive results. The less evasive treatment that Bertrand applies results in very fast results that last. Would highly recommend this service for anyone with chronic headaches. Bertrand’s alway friendly & welcoming which makes all appointments relaxing.
Kelly Anne
Kelly Anne
Bertrand is nothing but AMAZING! I suffered from Vestibular Migraine with strong vertigo symptoms and daily dizziness for 15 years before finding Bertrand. Proper diagnosis and treatment from him has given me the most relief ever, I am medication free, and haven’t had severe vertigo since starting treatment. I am not struggling at work like I used to and I am getting my social life back. And can even have a few alcoholic drinks on a Friday night without it bringing on an attack. I train at the gym with no fatigue for days afterwards anymore. I have my life back thanks to Bertrand. Thank you so much, what you do is fantastic. The entire team from front office staff to Bertrand are friendly and helpful.
Jenny Tate
Jenny Tate
I have been suffering from haemoplegic migraines for 50 years.Since living in Brisbane I've discovered the Migraine Clinic and Bertrand Doeuk. What a wonderful man. He started by manipulating my neck, hurt like hell but he was so gentle with soothing music playing in the background. He got me to stand straight improving my posture and before long I was standing inches taller. I go regularly and do daily exercises.Bertrand and his team are very approachable and professional, and after 50 years he is giving me and my family my life back. Thank you.
Tanya Winter
Tanya Winter
I went to see Bertrand at Brisbane Headache and Migraine clinic after 9 months of suffering with debilitating vertigo due to Vestibular Migraine. When I first saw Bertrand I couldn’t do simple daily tasks like going to the shops, unstacking the dishwasher or going for a walk due to the unsteadiness and dizziness from the vertigo. Now I can do all of those things, and have even been riding a bike and surfing. Bertrand is so professional, knowledgeable as well as being extremely caring, and is the definitely the person to see if you get migraines!
alice clarke
alice clarke
I was a chronic migraine sufferer for a long time, sometimes getting two in a week and often every week. These greatly inhibited my ability to live a normal, functioning life. I had tried all sorts of medications and, by the time I found the Headache and Migraine Clinic, I was quite desperate. After only about 6 sessions with Bertrand all headaches had stopped and I have lived for 4 years without experiencing a single migraine.Recently I have had a couple of migraines and so have returned to the clinic. I have complete confidence that the results will be the same as before. I cannot recommend this practice more highly.
Patrick Davey
Patrick Davey
I have had migraines for the last 23 years, some bad enough to lose my sight temporarily. I tried many types of massages, physio's and chiropractors but only got temporary relief. After seeing Bertrand for 3 months and doing upper neck migraine treatment I haven't had a migraine since, even 6 months after finishing treatment. Bertrand is a friendly guy who genuinely cares about me as a patient and is happy to explain anything about treatment I'm curious about, and knows his speciality very well. His methods are researched and verifiable, and I recommend anyone who suffers from migraines go see him.
Petah Jensen
Petah Jensen
I've been seeing Ariel for just over a couple months now and i have found this treatment to be working for me. Ariel is such a wonderful lady and always makes me feel welcome and comfortable. I highly recommend her and the clinic.
Alex Envr
Alex Envr
For 8 years I have suffered from constant symptoms relating to vestibular migraine (as diagnosed by a specialist). For the last two years my symptoms were so severe I was unable to leave my home at all.Since commencing treatment with Bertrand at Brisbane Headache and Migraine Clinic two months ago, the severity of my symptoms has drastically reduced. I am now at a level of functionality where I can enjoy some recreational time with my family outside of home. As I continue with my treatment plan I am optimistic I will soon have the capacity to return to full time employment.I strongly recommend anyone suffering from symptoms of migraine to consult with Bertrand at Brisbane Headache and Migraine Clinic as a first course of action.Bertrand himself is a friendly and knowledgeable professional and I am greatly appreciative of his efforts and expertise in treating my condition. Admin staff at the Pinelands clinic are warm and welcoming which is also bonus!
Andrew Bozin
Andrew Bozin
After 15 years of regular debilitating migraines and many attempts to get on top of them, I finally found Ariel at the Brisbane Headache and Migraine Centre. Within just a few months, Ariel's expertise and guidance made all the difference and I'm delighted to say I'm now migraine free. Thank you so much Ariel, I'm forever grateful! The reception staff, who are always friendly and efficient, also deserve special mention. I can't recommend the centre enough (where's the six star option Google?).
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