Commonly, Cluster emerges in the teens to 30-40s and then taper off around 60-70s. Onset at our age raises the question of another disorder which mimics headache as having developed.

Since this issue now raises diagnostic questions beyond that of most docs, would suggest you seek a headache specialist to work thru to a diagnosis. Self-treatment is not safe.
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Print the following and see what your presen doc thinks.


Link to: cluster-LIKE headache.


Section, "Medications, Treatments, Therapies --> "Important Topics" --> "Cluster-LIKE headache"
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LOCATING HEADACHE SPECIALIST

1. Yellow Pages phone book: look for "Headache Clinics" in the M.D. section and look under "neurologist" where some docs will list speciality areas of practice.

2.  Call your hospital/medical center. They often have an office to assist in finding a physician. You may have to ask for the social worker/patient advocate.

3. Multimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or ; On-line screen to find a physician.

4. Multimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or Look for "Physician Finder" search box. They will send a list of M.D.s for your state.I suggest using this source for several reasons: first, we have read several messages from people who, even seeing neurologists, are unhappy with the quality of care and ATTITUDES they have encountered; second, the clinical director of the Jefferson (Philadelphia) Headache Clinic said, in late 1999, that upwards of 40%+ of U.S. doctors have poor training in treating headache and/or hold attitudes about headache ("hysterical female disorder") which block them from sympathetic and effective work with the patient; third, it's necessary to find a doctor who has experience, skill, and a set of attitudes which give hope of success. This is the best method I know of to find such a physician.

5. Multimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or NEW certification program for "Headache Medicine" by the United Council for Neurologic Subspecialties, an independent, non-profit, professional medical organization.
        Since this is a new program, the initial listing is limited and so it should be checked each time you have an interest in locating a headache doctor.
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Overall, headache disorders are far more complex to diagnose and treat. Not too many years ago Cluster folks often consulted multiple docs over several years before finding knowledge/skill, i.e., take the issue seriously.

Hey Jodie, and welcome. As Bob has posted, I would urge caution in determining you have CHs (you wrote you have had them for 2 years) before a diagnosis has been given. Diagnosing CHs is sometimes a lengthy process since there are no definitive tests. Too many other things can mimic our experience and symptoms. So please do follow up by getting an appointment with a good headache neuro. You'll be glad you did. God bless. lance