How do Migraines and cluster headaches differ from just a plain ol' really bad headache?
I spent most of my day in bed, miserable, my head feeling as if it would explode, my stomach just miserable... the smell of tea made me think I might throw up... and the ringing of the phone literally brought tears to my eyes.

This happens once or twice a month, and has for ages, either I wake up feeling like that or it has a very abrupt onset, there does not seem to be any particular trigger or any correlation to my monthly cycle and it generally lasts between 3 and 10-12 hours.... the only difference between now and 5 years ago is that the duration has gotten longer.
No OTC pain reliever helps at all.

Do I need to ask my doctor about this or just live with it?

Hi MrsS,

Usually a really bad headache can be relieved by over the counter medication quite quickly.
This isn't the case with migraines and cluster headaches.
My older daughter has suffered with migraines since she was seven, and has learned to recognise when she is about to have one, and take precautions. Usually, in her case, a full blown migraine, with all the associated distress, can be prevented with rest and medication.

Cluster headaches are somewhat different. They are severe and usually affect one side of the head. The sufferer will get several of these headaches over a period of weeks or months.
Whereas, with a migraine the severe headache may occur for up to 72 hours maybe once or twice a month.
I am talking very generally here about these conditions, and if you suffer from severe and persistent headaches, you should see your doctor.
In my daughter's case, the doctor ordered a CT scan to rule out other serious possibilities before diagnosing migraines.

There is a wealth of information on the internet, and I found a couple of pages on MSN that I thought might be a starting point for information for you:

Migraines

Cluster Headaches

It might be a good idea to see your doctor...there are several migraine meds out that can either prevent them or stop them in their tracks...I get them too at least two-four times a month...I have found a product that works very well...It normally will either grt rid of my migriane or shorten the duration and severity....You do need to take it as soon as the migraine starts...it works better that way...I have a hard time finding it lately...the pharmacist said the secret is out on this and they can't keep it on the shelf...I usually get mine at CVS...here is the link...it can also be ordered on-line.

Migraine

I get migraines all the time..Well at least once a month...I hate them..But I guess its a part of life that i get to deal with..lol