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Conditions    Headache/Migraines    Cluster headache

Cluster headache

Recent experience

Cluster headaches are closely related to sphenopalatine ganglion dysfunction on both sides, not only the affected side. Stimulation to the nerve ganglion improves cluster headache as soon as the first treatment. Patients with short histories (<12 months) of the conditions require 4 to 6 treatments to achieve long-term relief. Longer treatment courses (8-10) may be necessary for patients with over 5 years of cluster headache.

 

Introduction

Cluster headaches are one of the most painful types of headaches. A cluster headache commonly awakens you in the middle of the night with intense pain in or around one eye on one side of your head. Cluster headaches are short-lasting compared to migraines, and are commonly associated with excessive tearing, redness of the eye and facial sweating. Cluster headaches may attack multiple times a day for weeks or months. 

 

Routine treatment

Unfortunately, there is no well-established treatment for this condition.

 

Acupuncture

Cluster headaches are closely related to the sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG). Our special acupuncture treatment directly stimulates SPG, which provides reliable improvement of the condition. 

 

Treatment objects and protocol

The goal is to achieve long term remission of cluster headache. In patients with extreme conditions, the aim will be a significant decrease in frequency and severity. The initial treatment cycle is 6 sessions, which is delivered over 3-4 weeks. Further treatments depend on individual responses. 

 

Safety

Acupuncture is a well-tolerated safe treatment. The specific technique with strong stimulation may be used. Local anaesthesia can be offered, but the injection fo anaesthesia agent may cause more discomfort compared to needling.

 

Fee

1st and 2nd treatments: $ 250

3rd to 6th treatments: $200

 

Medicare rebate: $107.25 

Total out-of-pock cost (6 sessions): $ 656.5

 

*Patients are encouraged to contact Medicare for Extended Medicare Safety Net (EMSN). 80% rebate of out-of-pocket fee may be claimed when the threshold is reached. The out-of-pocket cost may be as low as $132. 

http://www.mbsonline.gov.au/internet/mbsonline/publishing.nsf/Content/Factsheet-EMSN1Jan2020