The attacks are usually temporary, but they may be prolonged and can cause some permanent paralysis. A normal substance present in the body, which is released if tissues are injured. Histamine has been implicated as one of the substances in the blood considered to be a caus- ative factor in cluster headache, and it has also been considered a provocative factor in migraine headaches. If histamine is given to a migraine patient, it can provoke a migraine-like headache. The inflammation causes a stiff neck, which is typical of meningitis, and a high tempera- ture.
Immediate care is necessary.
The headache is not chronic, but acute. A drop in estrogen levels during these times may be a precipitating cause. Menstrual migraine can be adequately treated with small doses of ergotamine or anti-inflammatory drugs prior to and during the woman's period. It is often added to Chinese foods, with wonton soup a frequent offender. However, it is also found in many processed meats and tenderizers.