Headache

Cluster Headaches

Signs and Symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment

Diagnosis

Cluster headaches are characterized by a specific type of pain and pattern of attacks. Keeping a headache journal is a great way to track the location and severity of the pain, the duration of the pain, any medications taken and any possible headache triggers.

A physical exam also may help your doctor detect signs of a cluster headache. One of your pupils may appear smaller than the other or your eyelid may droop.

If your doctor suspects a tumor or aneurysm, he or she may order one or more of the following tests:

• Computerized Tomography (CT) Scan -- A CT scan uses a thin X-ray beam that rotates around the area being examined. A computer processes data to construct a three-dimensional, cross-sectional image.

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) -- An MRI uses magnetism, radio waves and computer technology, rather than X-rays, to produce images of your brain.

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Last updated May 8, 2007