Posted by NYUboy (24.168.66.145) on July 05, 2001 at 13:44:01:
Hello to one and all!
Until recently, I got cluster headaches in a cycle of about a 2 month period once a year. Now I have had CH's for 8 months non-stop. Some days I have 2 or 3 episodes mostly occuring about an hour after falling asleep and lasting about 45 minutes. Like many of you, the pain has been unbearable and has wreaked total havoc on my life. I've missed a great number of days at work due to the headaches and lack of sleep that I am now in jeopardy of losing my job.
I've tried everything, and I mean everything. My neurologist currently has me on Verapamil and Bellamine (aka Bellergal) to combat the attacks and temporaritly on Lithium and Prednisone (a steroid). I've exhuasted my prescription of Prednisone, but it is only with this drug that I was able to keep the attacks away for a solid month! Oh what Joy that month was, not to live in fear of my next attack; to have deep, restful sleep each night; and to gain control over my life.
I am, however, very concerned about the long-term affects of continuing Prednisone. But, when compared to the quality of life, I can't continue without it. I will, of course, take this up with my doctor, but thought someone could tell me of there experiences with this drug.
Also, has anyone tried mushrooms? I saw one website that offerred this controversial treatment.
In closing, I am so glad I found a site where I can share my pain with sympathetic and fellow sufferers. I'm a chronic sufferer now and I am looking for answers. I need long-term answers to my condition.
BTW, has anyone noticed their sympathy from their pets during an episode? I have two female cats about a year old and they seem to know (perhaps because of my moaning and tears) that I am in an episode. They act very calm and try to console me by sitting nearby.
I welcome and appreciate all responses.
For your reference:
Age: 40
Male
Smoker - but quit for 3 months - no change in health
Cyclic sufferer for 4 years
Chronic for 8 months
Drugs tried:
Diet change - no help
Imitrex - forget it, didn't work
Advil/Alleve/Excedrin - Episodic only, double normal dosage.
Hollistic: Blue Flag Iris/Genkgo mix - no help