What is the main focus of treatment for cluster headaches?

The primary focus of treatment for cluster headaches involves the use of oxygen therapy, which is particularly effective in alleviating acute cluster headache attacks. Patients often experience intense unilateral headache pain, and oxygen therapy can help by increasing oxygen saturation and promoting vasoconstriction, leading to rapid relief of pain.

Alongside oxygen therapy, some other treatments may be utilized, such as triptans for acute attacks; however, oxygen stands out due to its effectiveness and non-invasive nature. It's important to recognize that while preventive medications are essential for managing chronic cluster headaches over the long term, they do not address the immediate and severe discomfort experienced during an attack, which is where oxygen therapy shines.

Though rest and hydration can support overall health, they are not primary interventions specifically aimed at treating the acute phase of cluster headaches. Similarly, aspirin is not considered a first-line treatment for cluster headaches, as it has not proven efficacy in this particular type of headache. Thus, oxygen therapy is indeed the most focus-oriented approach for addressing acute attacks associated with cluster headaches.