What describes the classic presentation of a cluster headache?

The classic presentation of a cluster headache involves a middle-aged man experiencing unilateral headache pain that typically lasts between 30 to 90 minutes. Cluster headaches are known for their severe intensity and are often accompanied by autonomic symptoms, such as tearing and nasal congestion, on the same side as the headache.

This scenario aligns with the demographic and symptom characteristics commonly associated with cluster headaches, which predominantly affect men and are classified by the exclusive territory of one side of the head, often centered around the eye. The episodic nature of cluster headaches further supports this choice, as they can occur in periods of frequent attacks (clusters) followed by remission phases.

In contrast, the other choices present characteristics that do not fit the classic presentation of cluster headaches. For instance, bilateral pain is more characteristic of tension-type headaches, while constant dull headaches are often associated with other types of headaches or conditions such as chronic daily headache. Additionally, the mention of a young adult with intermittent headaches suggests a different pattern associated with migraines or tension-type headaches rather than the distinctly episodic and unilateral pattern of cluster headaches.