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worsthanchildbirth
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New here - Have some questions
« on: Sep 21st, 2005, 11:18am » |
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Hi everyone. I am new to this board and glad that I stumbled upon it while researching my headaches.
A little background: I had my first "severe" headache about 10 years ago (I was in high school). My parents took me to the ER and I ended up seeing a neurologist. I believe at the time my diagnosis was migraine.
Since then, I have episodes of headaches that last for months and then disappear for 6months to 2 years. Over the years I have taken Imitrex pills, Elavil (preventative) and Annaprox (naproxen Sodium) for immediate relief.
It has been two years since I had my last attack. Until a few weeks ago. I have been getting the headaches everyday aroud 9am (at work!) Here is a list of my symptoms:
-The pain is EXTREMELY SEVERE and way worse than childbirth for me. My son is only 1 year ols, so I remember childbirth well!
-One sided always (right side)
-Pain begins above right eye (in forehead area)
-I would describe pain as what I would imagine it would feel like it I was being stabbed in the head with a knife repeatedly!!
-Right eye swells, is bloodshot and waters badly (my nose runs too!)
-Also experience shadow (happening as I write)
These all seem like cluster headache symptoms to me, but I have never been woken in the night and though I am very figitty and restless, I always stay seated with my hands pressed on my forehead during an attack.
I do have an appointment with a neurologist on Thursday (next week) and am currently taking Midrin and Prednisone.
Just wanting all of your thoughts on my headaches. With a 1 year okd at home I need relief NOW and I am getting very frustrated and pissed off!!
Thanks all-
worsthanchildbirth
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nani
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Re: New here - Have some questions
« Reply #1 on: Sep 21st, 2005, 11:25am » |
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How long do your headaches last?
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worsthanchildbirth
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Re: New here - Have some questions
« Reply #2 on: Sep 21st, 2005, 11:29am » |
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On average they last about an hour. Sometimes 2. THat is just the length of time that I cannot function. RIght now I am still on pain (short stabbing pains above my eye in my forehead) this may last all day. I am assuming that this is what you all refer to as a shadow??
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nani
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Re: New here - Have some questions
« Reply #3 on: Sep 21st, 2005, 11:36am » |
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Yes, those can be called shadows. There are also other types of headaches that mimic CH that are very short lived. Some folks have multiple headaches types. 
It's probably a good idea to start a headache diary to take to your neuro when you visit. Record time of day, intensity, duration, etc. Try to keep track of them all.
For now, you may want to try ice or heat on your eye and/or neck during the bad attacks. I'm an ice person. Sticking my face in the A/C vent of the car helps some, too. Red Bull works really well for me sometimes. Drink it fast, at the beginning of a bad hit.
While you are waiting for your appointment, read everything you can here. If you do have CH, this is the best place to be.
The prednisone may help, the midrin probably won't.
pain free wishes, nani
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worsthanchildbirth
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Re: New here - Have some questions
« Reply #4 on: Sep 21st, 2005, 11:40am » |
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Thanks Nani,
If the headaches stay on this schedule for the next week there is a strong possibility that the neurologist will witness an attack. The time of the appt. is around when I have been gettign the headaches.
Anyone else have an opinions?
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JJA
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Re: New here - Have some questions
« Reply #5 on: Sep 21st, 2005, 11:57am » |
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I would gather up some information on cluster headache to take to the neurologist with you in case he/she is not familiar with clusters (a pretty common experience). Just remember you are trying to inform the neuro not convince him/her.
Jesse
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Kris_in_SJ
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Re: New here - Have some questions
« Reply #6 on: Sep 21st, 2005, 1:40pm » |
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Hi and Welcome.
Sounds suspiciously like clusters to me - primarily because of the clockwork type attacks, the swelling red eye and the duration of each attack. You might take the cluster quiz to the left to see if it applies. I agree with Nani that you need to start a HA diary (backtrack a little if you can) and take it with you to your appointment.
Also, here's a link to a wonderful article on current treatment options for clusters. It saved my life last cycle. Read it, memorize it and take it with you to the doc.
http://www.brightok.net/~mnjday/chtherapy.pdf
Read, read, read. The more knowledge you gain before your neuro visit, the more you can participate in your care and find the best treatment options.
PF Wishes and Many Hugs,
Kris (also from the soon to be snowy state of MI)
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