Classification of cluster headaches

There are 2 types of cluster headaches:

• Episodic cluster headaches are the most common type of cluster headaches. People with episodic cluster headaches have cluster periods of 1 to 3 months when they are prone to having headaches. The cluster periods are followed by headache-free periods (remissions) of 6 months or more. About 90% of people who have cluster headaches have episodic cluster headaches.¹
• Chronic cluster headaches are those that occur during a period of at least 12 months without a headache-free period (remission) or when remissions last less than one month.² About 10% of people who have cluster headaches have chronic cluster headaches.³

Author:	Monica Rhodes	Last Updated: April 11, 2008
Medical Review:	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Colin Chalk, MD, CM, FRCPC - Neurology
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