Cluster headache is a primary headache disorder marked by frequent attacks of short-lasting, severe, unilateral head pain with associated autonomic symptoms. The goal of acute therapy for cluster headache is fast, effective and consistent relief.
In the currently recommended dosing strategy of continuous flow 100% oxygen given via a non-rebreather face mask at 7-15L/min, the time to improvement can sometimes take upwards of 20-30 minutes and is not effective for all cluster headache sufferers.
An alternative method of oxygen delivery (versus continuous flow) uses a demand valve which is controlled by the respiration rate, allowing increased oxygen flow in response to increased demand. This delivery system may be better at stopping a cluster headache attack than the continuous flow model as it can support hyperventilation which can enhance cerebral arterial vasoconstriction via a state of hyperoxia and hypocapnia. Arterial vasoconstriction is one hypothesized method by which oxygen can abort a cluster headache attack.
This proof of concept trial will evaluate if oxygen delivered via demand valve with a specific breathing technique is effective as a cluster headache acute treatment and is more effective than the traditional continuous high flow oxygen treatment with a non-rebreather face mask.
