Who is affected by cluster headaches

Unlike many other types of headaches, cluster headaches are more common in men than in women. These headaches are rare in children younger than age 10. Cluster headaches are not common—only around 4 in 1,000 people suffer from them.1

This type of headache may be genetic, since your risk of developing cluster headaches is higher if you have a parent or sibling who has the condition. Cluster headaches usually emerge when you are in your 30s and 40s, although many men develop cluster headache cycles while still in their 20s.

Approximately 90% of those with cluster headaches get them only occasionally (episodic). Around 10% go on to develop chronic cluster headaches that last for periods of longer than 1 year without stopping periodically (remission) or only have short periods of remission of less than 14 days.1



Author: Douglas Dana
Ralph Poore
Last Updated: August 14, 2006
Medical Review: Renée M. Crichlow, MD - Family Medicine
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Colin Chalk, MD, CM, FRCPC - Neurology
Seymour Diamond, MD - Neurology

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