Continuous Positive Airway Pressure as a Potential New Treatment for Cluster Headache

Cluster headache is also called suicide headache due to excruciating nocturnal attacks. There are few treatment options available. Inhalation of oxygen has shown to abort the attacks. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is a machine used during sleep to treat respiratory failure. Automatic CPAP machines adjust the air pressure through the night to keep the upper airways patent. Single reports have shown a high prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea in people suffering from cluster headache, and positive effects of CPAP treatment, but no randomized controlled trial has been conducted so far. If proven effective CPAP would make an affordable treatment option for many patients within the existing healthcare system.