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        New Message Board Archives >> 2004-2005 Getting to Know Ya Posts >> Finally... i have a home!!!
        
(Message started by: mdavis on Dec 15^th, 2004, 11:24am)

Title: Finally... i have a home!!!
Post by mdavis on Dec 15^th, 2004, 11:24am

Before i forget, let me say thank you to all. It's wonderful to know that there are people who understand my pain...LITERALLY!
My name is Melissa. I had my first cluster when I was sixteen. The pain that I felt is still, to this very day, undescribable. After two years of pure hell, I was finally diagnosed just before I turned 19...some birthday present.
I am now 26 (patiently awaiting my next cycle to begin any day now!) and I still get those looks from people who don't understand that these are not your "everyday headaches." Many people think that it's an act for pity (including one very opinionated and hateful EX fiance. Not the reason why he is now my EX but definitely a factor!) and that I'm a great actress. But there are those who DO believe me... my parents, my wonderful neurologist, and now all of you!!
Since my last visit to the doctor, I have been taking a wonderful drug... ZOMIG! "Heaven in a nose spray bottle" as I like to call it. I have taken so many drugs I couldn't name half of them. But now, finally, relief and it only took 8 years! What a great feeling!!
Thanks so much for hearing my story. ;)

Title: Re: Finally... i have a home!!!
Post by nani on Dec 15^th, 2004, 12:10pm

Welcome Melissa and I'm sorry you're here. We really do understand your pain. I had my first episode at 16 also. Look around, gather info and please ask any questions you may have. Have you tried oxygen as an abortive? Many of us get relief from it and it's a drug free option. Pain free wishes to you!

Title: Re: Finally... i have a home!!!
Post by lionsound on Dec 15^th, 2004, 9:42pm

Hi Melissa!

Thanks for sharing your story. :)
I remember having clusters in my teens as well.

Glad you feel comfortable here. This place is great for support and info. Be sure to read, read , read and don't be afraid to ask questions.

Welcome home!
Be well,
lionsound

Title: Re: Finally... i have a home!!!
Post by survivor13 on Dec 15^th, 2004, 10:52pm

welcome melissa, hope you find the many answers for your questions. were here for your support! good luck! pf to ya!

Title: Re: Finally... i have a home!!!
Post by Bill-G on Dec 15^th, 2004, 11:25pm

Hi Melissa

sorry to hear you are a clusterhead..hope the Zomig keeps keepin on for you :)

I'm new here to. First CH at 57, 2 months before my bday.

I definetly here ya about trying to explain what you go through to someone..I mean..we are just talking about a headache aren't we? Grrrrrrr!!! There a letter to employers on the ouch site that goes into what a ch is...and how painfull ! I copied that and read it at times to remind myself that this is not an act or appeal for attention. its very real! The part about ch pain exeeding the pain of amputation without anethesia will also shut a pesistant non-believer up :P

hope springs eternal

Take care.. and ( from a newbie) welcome :)
Bill

Title: Re: Finally... i have a home!!!
Post by RichardN on Dec 16^th, 2004, 12:32am

Welcome,

You'll find folks here who've used every medication out there and the knowledge contained on this board and offered by folks who know "first-hand" has been invaluable for all of us.
Do try 02 if you haven't. For those of us it works for, it's a miracle. If used properly and at the first sign of a ch, it can kill the beast in minutes. If you wait, it will take longer and you may suffer more than necessary.

PFDANs

Richard

Title: Re: Finally... i have a home!!!
Post by mdavis on Dec 17^th, 2004, 12:02pm

My goodness! Thanks so much for the warm welcome.
In reference to O2, I do use it (currently I have two tanks on standby) and it works when I catch it in time. Unfortunately the majority of my clusters hit when I'm sleeping. That's when the zomig steps up.
I'm still waiting for my next cycle. I know they're coming. They always do. But for now, life is good. I wish the same for all of you.
Pain-free days to all,
Melissa ;)

Title: Re: Finally... i have a home!!!
Post by angel-ache on Dec 17^th, 2004, 9:22pm

Hello Mellissa...
I started CH's at 14 and am now 27. 13 years of missunderstood pain. I was just recently diagnosed, 3 months ago. I live on island in alaska not many neuro's round this fishing viliage.

I am not chronic at night, more in the morning, but that doesn't mean i didn't get them at night. You should try Melatonin, over the counter pill to help you sleep through the night. Take 3 pills, worth 9 milligrams, and that should help. You won't feel groggy in the morning, because it is a natural booster to the low levels that us CHer's usually have. It is inexpenisve and great to use.

Good luck.

Angela