Pathogenesis (disease development)
It is now believed that the causes of cluster headache lie in an area of the brain called the hypothalamus. This area controls the pituitary gland, which is responsible for producing hormones. These hormones control functions such as hunger and thirst, sexuality or sleep.It is believed that the cause of cluster headache lies in a dysregulation of such endogenous rhythms. This is confirmed in the facts that, for example, the attacks usually occur at the same time of day, as well as more frequently in spring and autumn.In patients with cluster headache, it was further found that there were disturbances in the release of hormones responsible for the day-night rhythm, stress and sexual behavior.As triggers for an attack, patients cite various factors. The following are some examples:
- Alcohol consumption
- Great heights
- Poor sleep quality
- Stress
- Weather change
- Time zone shift
Etiology (causes)
Biographical causes
- Hormonal factors
Behavioral causes
- Consumption of stimulants
- Alcohol
- Tobacco (smoking) – above-average frequency of heavy smokers; significantly longer cluster headache periods and higher attack frequencies compared with nonsmokers
- Psycho-social situation
- Stress
Causes related to disease
- Hypoxia (oxygen deficiency)
Medication
- Refer to “Drug side effects” under “Headaches caused by medications”.
Other causes
- Histamine (carrier substance in allergic reactions).
- Weather change
- High altitudes
- Time zone shift
