It is a very intense headache around the eyes when the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve is affected on one side of the cranium. It occurs most frequently in males over 10 years old.
The exact cause is unknown, although it is thought to be the result of a combination of genetic predisposition and exposure to environmental factors such as perfumes.
It presents with a very intense headache in the form of outbreaks that last from fifteen minutes to three hours. It usually recurs at the same time of day. It is accompanied by tearing and reddening of one eye, drooping of the eyelid, runny nose and sweating on the same side of the face.
Diagnosis is clinical, by interrogation and physical examination.
Pain should be controlled with analgesics, oxygen inhalation and relaxation techniques. Triptans (migraine medication) have been shown to be effective in reducing pain. In recurrent cases, it can be prevented with medication such as verapamil +/- cortisone.
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