A cluster headache has certain characteristics that set it apart from other headaches. This type of headache is intensely painful and occurs on one side of the head, causing multiple symptoms on that side, including a watery eye and a stuffy nostril. In addition, these headaches occur repeatedly during a short span of time, in clusters. Making lifestyle changes, using alternative treatments and taking supplements are all natural ways to limit the pain and duration of a cluster headache.
Making Lifestyle Changes
Some simple lifestyle changes will lower your chances of suffering a cluster headache or initiating a cluster episode. Drinking alcohol can cause a cluster headache, even if you drink only a small amount, so avoiding alcohol can help you prevent the onset of a cluster headache. Tobacco and toxic fumes from chemicals can also cause problems. Nitrates, which are found in many types of food, are cluster headache triggers for many people, as are lower oxygen levels that occur at high altitudes, so reading labels carefully and using other means of transportation than air travel can be helpful. Finally, many cluster headache sufferers benefit from having a consistent and adequate sleeping schedule.
Using Alternative Treatments
The use of acupressure and acupuncture can be helpful to a cluster headache sufferer. These remedies target certain pressure points and nerve centers and are believed to release stress and toxins from the body. Stress is often a trigger for cluster headaches, so yoga and other exercise can also be helpful in the relief of cluster headache pain. Some people who get cluster headaches have even gotten relief from hypnotherapy sessions.
Supplements
Cluster headaches often occur in people who have low melatonin levels, so supplementing melatonin can be effective in the treatment and prevention of cluster headache episodes. In addition, the use of cayenne pepper inside the affected nostril can relieve cluster headache pain for extended periods. Due to the sensitivity of the nasal passage and the potency of cayenne pepper, it is best to attempt this therapy under the supervision of a doctor.
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