5 Natural Cluster Headaches Treatments

People with cluster headaches may encounter attacks in which numerous severe headaches occur within 24 hours. They most commonly occur at night.

Daily cluster headache bouts might last weeks or months, followed by a period of remission. This remission period can continue for several months or even years.

Cluster headaches differ significantly from other types of headaches. They can be very severe and frequently necessitate medical attention. Cluster headaches can be extremely unpleasant, but they are not harmful.

Home remedies for cluster headaches

There are currently only a handful of successful home treatments and no recognized cures.

There is some limited scientific evidence on home treatments for cluster headaches that may be useful, but they have not been proven via research.

A 2017 evaluation determined that there was insufficient evidence to support the use of alternative treatments in cluster headaches and that more research was needed.

Below, we'll look at some of the material that is currently available but not proven.

Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone that your body utilizes to control your sleep patterns. People with cluster headaches frequently have low melatonin levels.

Melatonin pills in amounts ranging from 10 to 25 milligrams may help avoid cluster headaches when given before bedtime. Melatonin treatment may be less helpful in patients suffering from chronic cluster headaches.

Capsaicin cream

Topical capsaicin cream is available over the counter and may be used to treat cluster headaches. This analgesic can be gently placed on the inside of your nose with a cotton swab.

Smaller older research found that capsaicin cream reduced the intensity of cluster headaches.

However, a 2019 study discovered that, while capsaicin cream was easy to use and had few adverse effects, it had little efficacy when compared to other treatments.

Deep breathing exercises

Oxygen therapy is one of the most used treatments for cluster headache attacks. Increasing your blood oxygen levels can help you relax and manage pain.

While there is less data on deep breathing techniques and cluster headaches, using them in conjunction with drugs during an attack may be beneficial.

Box breathing and pursed lip breathing are both effective stress relief techniques.

Magnesium

Low magnesium levels have been linked to certain types of headaches. As a result, you may want to consider taking magnesium supplements or including magnesium-rich foods in your diet.

A small earlier study of 22 patients with cluster headaches found that magnesium sulfate provided "meaningful relief" to 41% of participants.

However, further study into magnesium for cluster headaches is restricted.

If you are thinking about using magnesium or any other supplement, consult your doctor first.

Kudzu extract

Kudzu extract is a botanical supplement derived from the kudzu vine. Some anecdotal data suggests that kudzu can help with cluster headaches.

A tiny study published in 2009 identified 16 people who utilized kudzu extract to treat cluster headaches.

While many people reported reduced intensity or frequency of attacks, more thorough research is needed to determine the true benefit of kudzu extract.

When to see a doctor

If you suffer cluster headaches, the discomfort is reason enough to seek medical attention.

Speak with your doctor about your symptoms and treatment choices. They can propose a treatment plan that is suitable for you. You may find a professional by googling “cluster headache treatment Manhattan”.

Also, if you're thinking about using herbs or supplements, consult your doctor. They can inform you of any potential adverse effects or interactions with drugs or other therapies.

Cluster headaches are typically treated with the following medications:

- steroids

- oxygen delivered by mask

- occipital nerve block

- injectable sumatriptan (Imitrex)

- intranasal lidocaine

Conclusion

Cluster headaches are exceedingly painful and prone to return. These headaches do not linger long, and symptoms typically resolve within a few days.

While drugs and other medical treatments are commonly used to treat and prevent cluster headaches, there are certain things you can do at home in addition to your doctor's approved therapies.

Remember to always consult your doctor before using any home cures.