Cluster Headaches

What Increases Your Risk

Risk factors for cluster headaches include:^{3, 5}

• Being male. More males than females get cluster headaches.
• Being between the ages of 30 and 40, although they can begin at any age. However, it is rare for children age 10 or younger to develop cluster headaches.

If you have already been diagnosed with cluster headaches, the risk of triggering a headache increases if you:

• Are a smoker or have been a smoker in the past. Many people with cluster headaches are current or previous tobacco smokers.
• Use alcohol. Alcohol can trigger a headache, especially when you are having a cycle of headaches.
• Take medications that contain histamine or nitroglycerin during a headache cycle.

Go to previous section	Go to top of page	Go to next section
Author:	Monica Rhodes	Last Updated: April 21, 2006
Medical Review:	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Colin Chalk, MD, CM, FRCPC - Neurology
© 1995-2008 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.