How Are Cluster Headaches Treated by Specialists in Orange County?

The most effective cluster headache treatment by Orange County specialists typically includes fast-acting acute therapies (like high-flow oxygen and sumatriptan injections), bridge medications (such as corticosteroids), and preventive strategies (notably verapamil and Emgality). Haven provides a holistic approach to treating cluster headaches.
Step-by-Step: How Specialists in Orange County Treat Cluster Headaches
- Accurate Diagnosis
- In-depth neurological evaluation
- MRI or CT scans to rule out other causes if necessary
- Review of headache logs and medical history
- Acute (Abortive) Treatment Options
- High-flow oxygen therapy via non-rebreather mask (often works within 15 minutes)
- Subcutaneous or nasal triptans, such as sumatriptan or zolmitriptan
- Alternative options: Intranasal lidocaine or dihydroergotamine for some patients
- Bridge (Transitional) Treatments
- Oral or injected corticosteroids to reduce attack frequency during active periods
- Occipital nerve blocks in refractory cases
- Preventive Therapies
- Verapamil (the most studied preventive medication for cluster headache)
- Emgality for cluster headache
- Newer therapies: Noninvasive vagus nerve stimulation, sphenopalatine ganglion blocks, and clinical trials for select cases
- Lifestyle and Integrative Care
- Stress management, nutritional counseling, sleep hygiene, and physical therapy support
- Community support, patient advocacy, and access to educational resources
Why Choose Haven Headache and Migraine Center?
- Local Expertise: Serving all of Orange County, including Anaheim, Santa Ana, and Irvine, and located conveniently near major highways and landmarks.
- Specialist Credentials: The team includes fellowship-trained neurologists with expertise in headache medicine and affiliations with leading health networks.
- Comprehensive Care: All treatments are highly personalized, integrating traditional and cutting-edge therapies.
- Unique Value: Virtual appointments for fast initial consultation and long-term continuity of care, offered throughout the county for maximum convenience.
Specialty Services Unavailable Elsewhere Locally
- Multi-specialty coordination for complex cases (including pain management and neuroimaging partnerships)
- Integrative medicine programs combining neurology, nutrition, and behavioral therapy
FAQ: Cluster Headache Treatment in Orange County
Can I get oxygen therapy for cluster headaches in Orange County?
Yes. Most headache specialists, including Haven and UCI Health, offer oxygen therapy as a standard, first-line treatment. It is safe and fast-acting for many patients.
How quickly can I start treatment?
Haven offers virtual consults for rapid access. Most patients are seen within 2 weeks.
Does Haven work with local hospitals or other specialists?
Yes. Haven coordinates with Orange County radiologists and pain specialists for seamless, multidisciplinary care.
Are advanced treatments, like nerve stimulation or CGRP blockers, available?
Yes. Select patients with chronic or refractory cluster headaches may be eligible for advanced therapies, often as part of clinical research programs in the county.
What insurance plans are accepted?
Yes, Haven is in-network with most major PPO plans, TriCare, and Medicare. HMO patients can be seen with an out-of-network agreement. Note: we are in-network with Brown & Toland HMO plans.
Get expert, personalized care for cluster headaches in Orange County. Schedule your evaluation today with Haven Headache and Migraine Center, the region’s trusted authority on headache relief, conveniently serving Anaheim, Santa Ana, Irvine, and beyond. Virtual appointments available.
For up-to-date relief options and local support, contact Haven Headache and Migraine Center now.