Currently, there is no way to prevent cluster headaches from developing, because their cause is unclear. There are medicines that can lower the number of cluster headaches you get in a cycle. Other medicines can shorten the time you have the headaches.

However, when you are having a cycle of headaches, identifying and avoiding headache triggers may reduce the severity and duration of the headaches. Common cluster headache triggers include:

• Alcohol.
• Antihistamines or other medicines that widen your blood vessels.
• Irregular sleep patterns. Changes in your normal sleep patterns (especially taking afternoon naps) seem to trigger cluster headaches.
• Smoking cigarettes.
• Stress. Some people develop headaches after a stressful event is over. Reduce stress to prevent headaches with activities such as regular exercise. For more information, see the topic Stress Management.