Chronic cluster headaches occur for more than one year without remission or with remission lasting less than two weeks. Cluster headaches can occur in either sex at any age, but are more prevalent among men. Although not all causes of cluster headaches are known, alcoholic beverages are a known precipitant during a period of attacks. Furthermore, patients describe a seasonal relationship to the beginning of a series of attacks. Other than these two triggers, the actual cause of the headaches is undetermined.
Many specialists recommend the person suffering from cluster headaches keep a journal.
By recording when the attacks occur, how long they last and what he or she did in the days before and during the attack, the sufferer may be able to determine what events or factors contributed to the attacks and may be able to avoid these things. Furthermore, he or she may be able to determine what appears to help shorten the length of the attack. Unlike other types of headaches, cluster headaches do not appear to be triggered by foods or changes in routine. The best thing a person can do is to try to avoid stress and known triggers. If an attack does occur, progressive relaxation is a great non-medicinal therapy.