What symptom is associated with cluster headaches?

Study for the NAIT Primary Care Paramedic NOCP Pathophysiology Test. Ace your exam with our multiple-choice questions, complete with hints and explanations. Prepare thoroughly for your pathophysiology exam!

Cluster headaches are characterized by an intense and excruciating pain that is typically localized around one eye, which can indeed feel as if the eye is being pushed outward. This type of headache is often described as a burning or piercing sensation and can be accompanied by autonomic symptoms such as tearing, nasal congestion, or drooping of the eyelid on the affected side. The severity and specific location of the pain are what set cluster headaches apart from other types of headaches, making this specific symptom particularly indicative of the condition.

In contrast, the other symptoms listed do not align with the hallmark features of cluster headaches. For instance, nausea and aura are more commonly associated with migraines. The duration of pain in cluster headaches is generally shorter, typically lasting from 15 minutes to 3 hours, and not several days as mentioned in one of the options. Additionally, while tension-type headaches may cause pain in the back of the head, cluster headaches are specifically localized around one eye rather than broadly affecting the back of the head.

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