People who suffer from cluster headaches more often than not will confuse them with a migraine. The pain of a cluster headache can be so intense that it is beyond that of a regular migraine however. Doctors do not class cluster headaches as the same thing as migraines even if some of the symptoms do overlap. There are some similarities between the two but there are also some clear differences.

Cluster headaches are considered to be a close cousin of migraines. Some people are unlucky enough to suffer from both migraines and cluster headaches. And there are also hybrid versions of the condition, with some migraines occurring with some cluster features. For example, cluster headaches have recurring periods, plus times where they disappear altogether for a period of time.

Let’s look at the fundamental differences between migraines and cluster headaches:

1. Pain Severity
Cluster headaches are usually considered much more severe than migraines.

2. Onset Time
Cluster headaches come on quickly, usually within 45 minutes whilst migraines take up to 24 hours to peak.

3. Light and Sound Sensitivity
Cluster headache sufferers are usually not sensitive to sound or light whilst migraine sufferers are very sensitive.

4. Pain Type
Cluster headache pain is usually of the stabbing variety, migraines tend to pulsate and throb.

5. Sinus Symptoms
Migraines have no sinus symptoms but most cluster headaches are accompanied by a runny or blocked nose as well as watery and red eyes.

The most effective treatments for cluster headaches are:

Inhaling 100% oxygen
Triptans
DHE
Lidocaine (as nose drops)
Butorphanol nasal spray

Migraines are usually treated with strong painkillers whereas cluster headaches do not normally respond to aspirin and paracetamol.

Now that have an answer to the question “are cluster headaches the same thing as migraines?” you can begin taking the correct course of action for your particular ailment. Although it may be difficult to find an outright long term cure for either condition, there are many things you can do including lifestyle changes, dietary modifications and natural remedies that will assist you in warding off both of these extremely painful and debilitating illnesses.