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        New Message Board Archives >> 2005 Cluster Headache Specific Posts >> Switched Sides
        
(Message started by: PJS on Feb 1^st, 2005, 10:27am)

Title: Switched Sides
Post by PJS on Feb 1^st, 2005, 10:27am

It has been a couple of years since I have posted and I am glad to say they have been pain free.... until now.

I have had these headaches for 20+ years (I am 33). I began with an 8-year chronic cycle, which turned episodic in my twenties. They have always been left sided until now.

For the past month I have been trying to recover from a nasty URI (sinusitis/ear) and pneumonia. After 3 different antibiotic treatments, I am 75% better but the sinus infection is still lingering. Out of nowhere I was slammed with 2 clusters a day on the right side.

Not sure what is at the root of this cycle but the fact that they switched sides and are not responding to verapamil makes me suspicious that this was precipitated by the sinus infection. Fortunately O2 is controlling them for the most part. Anyone experience something similar? Any suggestions on what to do next?

Thanks for your help,

PJS

Title: Re: Switched Sides
Post by floridian on Feb 1^st, 2005, 10:55am

Sometimes the dose has to be adjusted (upped) for verapamil to work.

Sinus problems may have aggravated the nerves and immune system enough to wake the beast. Hope that when he leaves, he leaves for a long time.

Title: Re: Switched Sides
Post by nani on Feb 1^st, 2005, 12:04pm

Mine switched sides when my sinus' were inflamed on the other side. Try some Flonase to decrease the swelling.

Title: Re: Switched Sides
Post by PJS on Feb 1^st, 2005, 12:46pm

Thanks to both of you for responding. Ironically my neuro upped my verapamil today and has booked a CT to get to the bottom of the sinus infection.

Fingers crossed things will improve soon.

PJS

Title: Re: Switched Sides
Post by LeLimey on Feb 1^st, 2005, 1:03pm

Good luck with it, let us know how you get on! You never know, it may help someone else! I hope you are pain free soon
Helen

Title: Re: Switched Sides
Post by sandie99 on Feb 1^st, 2005, 1:22pm

Verapamil has started to work bit better with my chronic head after the dosage was doubled (400mg/day).

In my case, CH has switched sides during the same day, but even when I was episodic is usually was on the same side (right for me).

I hope your meds start to work soon!
In the meantime, strength to fight the beast. [smiley=hug.gif]

PF days,
Sandie

Title: Re: Switched Sides
Post by PJS on Feb 1^st, 2005, 2:34pm

This is truly a magnificent community of wonderful and special people. Thanks to all for your support!

PJS

Title: Re: Switched Sides
Post by unsolved1 on Feb 1^st, 2005, 5:42pm

I was episodic for 12 years with clusters ONLY on the right side.

Then

Started with what I thought would be a regular cycle in Oct.2000 ... but the clusters were on the LEFT.

I've been chronic ever since and my attacks can come on either side.

Had 1 left and 1 right sided attack today (so far)

Unsolved