ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Cluster headache

Cluster headache is a very bad kind of headache that some people occasionally get. It feels like a sharp, stabbing pain on one side of the head. It's kind of like someone is squeezing your head with a super tight grip.

The pain can come on really quickly and is often at its worst within 5-10 minutes. It can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 3 hours, and sometimes even longer.

One weird thing about cluster headaches is that they tend to come on at the same time every day, usually around the same time of year too. Some people get them in the spring or fall, for example.

Cluster headaches are usually only on one side of the head and can cause your eye to water or feel like it's swelling up. Your nose might also get stuffed up on the same side as the headache.

Doctors aren't exactly sure what causes cluster headaches, but they think it might have to do with a part of the brain that controls pain getting messed up.

If you get cluster headaches, your doctor can give you medicine to help ease the pain. Some people need to take the medicine every day during a cluster period, which usually lasts a few weeks to a few months.

Cluster headaches are really tough, but with help from your doctor, you can manage the pain and feel better.