Cluster headaches are among the most severe headache disorders. Cluster headache attacks occur with the most intense pain on one side of the head, around the eye. They are among the most severe pains that can afflict people. Those affected are still often neglected by the medical system. In recent years, initiatives, particularly those of the nationwide German Association of Cluster Headache Self-Help Groups (CSG e.V.), led to improved information and analyses of the needs of those affected and their families.

Dr. Müller, President of CSG eV, Mrs. Müller and Prof. Göbel (from right to left) discuss new coordinated supply routes

Prof. Göbel, Mrs. Müller and Dr. Müller (President of CSG eV)

The goal of the nationwide coordinated treatment pathways within the framework of integrated headache care (IV-K) is modern, effective, rapid, and accessible diagnostics and therapy for those affected. The Techniker Krankenkasse (TK) health insurance company initiated this nationwide care network in cooperation with the Kiel Pain Clinic, the University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, and private-practice pain specialists.

This network can be used to make treatment pathways for cluster headache patients more effective. The cluster headache self-help group, the Kiel Pain Clinic, network partners, and the Techniker Krankenkasse (a German health insurance company) have reviewed, coordinated, and expanded the care pathways

  • Cluster headache attacks without effective prevention are considered an emergency requiring immediate appointment at the headache center. Registration is required. Please register via cluster@schmerzklinik.de or by phone at +49 431-20099-0.
  • The nationwide treatment network, comprising specialized practices and clinics, receives comprehensive training on current treatment options for cluster headaches, and treatment pathways are specifically coordinated. Through this professionalization at the local level, qualified contact points for cluster headache sufferers are being expanded across all federal states.
  • The Kiel Pain Clinic offers a consultation service for regional doctors as a point of contact and for information regarding therapy problems

Rapid test

Headache rapid test

Book recommendation

Dr. Harald Müller
Cluster Headaches 100 Questions – 100 Answers

  • Joint research projects to improve care are being carried out
  • The treating physicians will be informed about the self-help work of the CSG
  • Supra-regional medical training courses are held with the participation of the CSG

A nationwide list of regional contacts of CSGe.V. can be found here .

Detailed information on diagnosis and treatment can be found under Cluster Headache Knowledge.