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Cluster or Horton's headache (Pediatrics - PEDS)

Low urgency
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It is a very intense headache around the eyes when the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve is affected on one side of the face. It occurs most frequently in males over 10 years old and is triggered by various substances. The outbreak of pain lasts 15 to 180 minutes but recurs intermittently for several weeks. It is diagnosed by medical history. If there is a trigger, it is essential to avoid it. During the outbreak, triptans and corticosteroids may be administered to control the pain. Despite not posing any life-threatening danger, it is very debilitating.
Bibliographic references
  1. Daniel J Bonthius, Andrew G Lee, Andrew D Hershey. Headache in children: Approach to evaluation and general management strategies. UpToDate. Aug 18, 2015.
  2. Arne May. Cluster headache: Epidemiology, clinical features, and diagnosis. UpToDate. May 22, 2014.
  3. Nesbitt AD, Goadsby PJ. Cluster headache. BMJ 2012; 344:e2407.
  4. Russell MB. Epidemiology and genetics of cluster headache. Lancet Neurol 2004; 3:279.
  5. Goadsby PJ. Raskin NH. Migraña y otras cefaleas primarias. Harrison. Principios de Medicina Interna. Volumen 2. 19º Edición: 2594-2596.
Author
Dr. Sara Vitoria
Copyright
© TeckelMedical 2026

Symptoms

    Localized headache

    Headache

    Headache behind the eyes

    Headache at night and/or when waking up

    Redness in only one eye

Symptoms to watch out for

Fever (temperature higher than 100.4 ºF)
Neck stiffness
If it is accompanied by seizures
Loss of sensibility and/or motility in limbs
If you have suffered a trauma.
Blurry vision
Vomiting

Self-care

Use over-the-counter pain relievers and consult your primary care physician to discuss other treatments.
Avoid caffeine, alcohol, smoking, and/or screen time.
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