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Oxygen done right

100% oxygen, non-rebreather mask, 12–15 litres per minute. Cans do not work.

Oxygen stops an attack in about 3 of 4 people and has no serious side effects. But it only works when delivered properly.

  • Medical 100% oxygen from a cylinder or a strong concentrator.
  • A non-rebreather mask with a bag.
  • Flow 12–15 litres per minute, sometimes more.
  • Breathe sitting and leaning forward for 15–20 minutes, start right away.
Pharmacy cans give a few breaths of weak flow. That is too little for cluster headache, which is why people think “oxygen does not help”.

Sources

  • Cohen A.S. et al., JAMA, 2009 (randomised trial)
  • EAN guideline, 2023