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        New Message Board Archives >> 2004-2005 Getting to Know Ya Posts >> Questions
        
(Message started by: mstar on Feb 3^rd, 2005, 8:04am)

Title: Questions
Post by mstar on Feb 3^rd, 2005, 8:04am

I was just told by a doctor recently that I have cluster headaches. For years I did suffer with mirgraines but as I've gotten older they diminished. However, for several years there have been periods of time when I wake up around 4:00 a.m. with a terrible headache above my eyes which I assumed was connected to sinus. The only relief I get is to sit upright or get out of bed. This always relieves the pain within a short time. I have drainage in my throat when I are up, so I just assumed this was sinus. It is still confusing since I don't have the excruciating pain that seems to be a part of a cluster headache. The headache is bad but not debilitating. Does this sound like a typical cluster?

Title: Re: Questions
Post by Bob_Johnson on Feb 3^rd, 2005, 8:44am

Not classic cluster but--

1. what they first appear, the symptoms are not always the textbook description you read about.

2. the most obvious first step would be to rule out an infection. Always rule out the most likely before assuming you have the obscure.....

Title: Re: Questions
Post by nani on Feb 3^rd, 2005, 8:47am

Welcome mstar...have you taken the cluster quiz on the left? That will help you determine whether or not you should see a neurologist, preferably one who is knowledgable about headaches. What you are describing does not sound like "typical" CH, but I'm not a doctor. Good luck to you. I hope you get the answers and relief that you need. Pain free wishes, nani

Title: Re: Questions
Post by mstar on Feb 3^rd, 2005, 8:51am

I did take the cluster quiz and all the answers but one confirmed I do have cluster headaches. It can't be an infection as it comes on periodically during the year and has for several years. Seems to be more prevelant in winter.

Title: Re: Questions
Post by nani on Feb 3^rd, 2005, 8:56am

I think that seeing a neurologist is your best bet. While you are waiting for your appointment, look around this site and the OUCH site (link at left) and print out anything that looks like it applies to you. Take it with you to the appointment. Not many doctors are knowlegable about CH. nani

Title: Re: Questions
Post by Kris_in_SJ on Feb 3^rd, 2005, 7:53pm

Hi Mstar,

Ditto to Nani. You might also start a headache journal. Write down the time, duration, intensity, what helps and what doesn't, etc. Backtrack some if your memory is good. Take it with you when you to the doc. Sometimes a journal is the perfect diagnostic tool. After all, how many of us actually have a headache when we're in the doctor's office?

Best of luck,

Kris

Title: Re: Questions
Post by mstar on Feb 3^rd, 2005, 8:24pm

Thanks for each of your inputs. The doctor did mention that since I thought my headaches were sinus, to take a Claritin pill when I went to bed and if i still have the headache it is not sinus. I plan to try this tonight.