Hypnic headache

Hypnic headache
Synonyms	Alarm clock headache
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Headache occurring during sleep, waking the person
Complications	N/A
Onset	Typically occurs in individuals over 50 years old
Duration	15 to 180 minutes
Types	N/A
Causes	Unknown
Risks	Age, possibly caffeine withdrawal
Diagnosis	Based on clinical history and exclusion of other causes
Differential diagnosis	Cluster headache, migraine, tension headache
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Caffeine, lithium, indomethacin
Medication	Caffeine, lithium, indomethacin
Prognosis	Generally good with treatment
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

Hypnic headache is a rare primary headache disorder that is also known as the "alarm clock headache". It is characterized by recurrent episodes of headache that occur exclusively during sleep, causing the individual to awaken.

Symptoms

The main symptom of a hypnic headache is a dull headache that wakes a person from sleep. The headache can occur on one or both sides of the head. It can last for 15 minutes to 4 hours. Other symptoms may include nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and restlessness.

Causes

The exact cause of hypnic headaches is unknown. Some researchers believe they may be related to rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. Others believe they may be related to changes in blood flow in the brain.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of hypnic headache is based on the patient's symptoms and medical history. A doctor may also order tests such as a CT scan or MRI to rule out other causes of the headaches.

Treatment

Treatment for hypnic headaches includes medications to prevent the headaches and to treat them when they occur. Lifestyle changes such as regular sleep patterns and avoiding caffeine may also help.

See also

• Headache
• Migraine
• Cluster headache
• Tension headache