“May all be happy, may all be healed, may all be at peace and may no one ever suffer."
Hemicrania continua is a type of headache disorder that is characterized by persistent, unilateral (one-sided) headache that is continuous, with occasional exacerbations of severe pain. The condition is usually experienced as a moderate to severe pain that is typically located around the eye, temple, or forehead on one side of the head.
Other common symptoms of hemicrania continua can include:
The cause of hemicrania continua is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to problems with the trigeminal nerve, which is a nerve that supplies sensation to the face and head. Hemicrania continua is typically diagnosed based on the characteristic symptoms, as well as response to medication.
The primary treatment for hemicrania continua is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) called indomethacin, which is typically very effective for this condition. Other medications, such as triptans or nerve blocks, may also be used in some cases. In rare cases, surgical intervention may be recommended.
Hemicrania continua is a chronic condition, but with proper treatment, most people with the disorder are able to manage their symptoms and lead normal, productive lives.