Cluster Headaches

[Chaotic1125]

My father has been suffering from cluster headaches for about 20 years or so. He is 77 years old. They seem to come on around November and stay until March. They are really severe on him. The Dr. gave him Ultram 50 mg. But that don't help him at all. Can you recommend anything he can try? Are there any trials out? Thank you for any help.

[AKC_75]

If he cant take Excedrin then he needs to speak to a doctor and see if there is a prescription he can take. And most likely it will take a combo of meds.

[Chaotic1125]

I visited my parents today for the holidays. My father had a headache while I was there, he went to his room and I could hear him cry. His health isn't the best and it worries me that these headaches are taking more from him. I feel so hopeless.

[AKC_75]

Yes, I definitely agree that they need to do more research!

[Chaotic1125]

Thank you for all the ideas. My dad has been using the wrap and the Mentholatum and it is helping some. He can't take the Excedrin because of other medicines he is taking and previous stomach surgery.
It's heartbreaking to see the pain he has from these things. I asked him to go back to a neurologist since he hasn't been to one for years, but he said he knows there is nothing they can give him to help.
I think more research needs to be done for people suffering from these headaches, or any type of headache.

[AKC_75]

Hi and welcome to the Migraines & Headaches Community.

I deal with cluster migraines as well and they can be quite debilitating.
A few tips I have picked up over there years are....
Put a wrap around your head, fairly snug but not to tight. Like a bandanna, cloth headband, etc. What causes migraines are the blood vessels in your brain become dilated so, putting a bit of pressure on them helps a lot.
Also get some Mentholatum and rub all over forehead and temples. You can do this with or without the wrap, I personally like to use both together.....just depends if you can stand the heat.
Ice and/or a heating pad is also good, use whichever is more comfortable, each person is different.
As far as OTC meds, Excedrin works the best for me...it is a combination of Tylenol, Aspirin and Caffeine which is a great combo for migraines.

I know I kept saying you, etc.....I was speaking with generality. See if any of those helps your dad and be sure to update us!!