Hi, I am a mother of a 13 year girl is was recently diagnosed with CH.  She does not present the classic signs of CH.  Her headaches start around the same time every night.  But they last about 15-17 hours.  She cries her self to sleep when she does get them so I do not think they are as intense as the classic CH.  But when she wakes she is still crying.  Lots of moaning in her sleep.  Hers last for about 2-3 months at a time.  She gets them more towards the back of the head.  Same spot every time.  Unlike the classic one that is more towards the front of the head.  She has been on many different medications and none of them seem to help.  She is un able to attend school because they are so painful.  Anyone out there heard of CH with these symptoms.  Has anyone heard of a cluster headache lasting this long.  Also she does not have the eye pain.  droopiness.  None of those symptoms.  I have done so much research and can not find anything on CH with her symptoms.  Please reply tell me what you think.  I need to know if there is some one else out there that has similar symptoms. 

Hi and Welcome

This is where you need to work with a headache specialist as there are some elements of your description that sound CH like and lots of others that don't. There are a lot of headache types and other causes that give headache symptoms. So it is essential to work with a specialist as GPS and most neurologists get very little training on the complexities of headaches.

From the IHS diagnostic criteria for CH - START PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGE


Quote:

* At least 5 attacks fulfilling criteria below * Severe or very severe unilateral orbital, supraorbital and/or temporal pain lasting 15-180 minutes if untreated * Headache is accompanied by at least one of the following:         ipsilateral conjunctival injection and/or lacrimation         ipsilateral nasal congestion and/or rhinorrhoea         ipsilateral eyelid oedema         ipsilateral forehead and facial sweating         ipsilateral miosis and/or ptosis         a sense of restlessness or agitation * Attacks have a frequency from one every other day to 8 per day * Not attributed to another disorder

This does not seem to match the symptoms given, but then it is common for CH in its early stages to be much milder and not quite follow the classical symptoms.

Do take her to see a specialist to get a good, accurate diagnosis.

when you say GPS what do you mean? 

I meant GPs, as in General Practioners or your family doctor.

Good of you to be aware and diligently working on improving your daughter's unfortunate situation.

My CH's started at age 11, so I know what it's like to be 13 with severe head pain.

Based on what you wrote, I honestly believe you should get a 2nd opinion from a headache specialist who will provide your daughter with an MRI and CAT scan to rule out anything other than headaches. 

From there, with trial and error, over time, your daughter and you and the doctors will learn what is effective or not for your her head pain.

Sincere best wishes! ;)

-Gregg in Las Vegas

PS  Frozen peas or ice cold washcloth may provide some relief when applied to head!