Posted by Margaret G. (208.154.255.163) on October 08, 1999 at 10:35:49:
It's my bio. Ten years ago at the age of 51 I began having Cluster Headaches. I read an article about them in the newspaper, and self diagnosed. However, it was a long road to get a DR. to diagnose. The usual Sinus Infection and later, Migraine diagnosis.
I went from 1989 to 1994 with no meds other than extra strength Tylenol. (Probably didn't really help, but I didn't have the guts to not take it.) In 1994 a Dr. told me I had Migraines and prescribed Midrin. I had very limited success with Midrin. It's no good when you are in the intense part of a cycle with 8+'s going 3 or 4 times a day. Finally, my sister told me about Imitrex, and in 1995 they were giving one free shot at the Dr.'s office. I went in an got mine along with a prescription. I went through two cycles with Imitrex, both injection and pill. In 1999 I used a sample Zomig pill and had pretty good results, so have stayed with that for the duration. This cycle began in February, and is still going although the attacks have become far less intense and less frequent. I don't know if I am not yet in remission, or if this is as good as it's gonna get! I also suspect I'm developing regular Migraines to fill in the blanks between Cluster Attacks. What fun! My Dr. tried prednisone taper this summer..it didn't work for me. Am currently on Atenelol, and possibly that accounts for the reduction of intensity. Who Knows ??
Sorry to be so lengthy, but then, it's been a long 10 years with my frequent visitor. Margaret Godfrey