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        New Message Board Archives >> 2006-2007 Getting to Know Ya Posts >> Greetings!
        
(Message started by: unhappy_jack on Sep 10^th, 2006, 7:55pm)

Title: Greetings!
Post by unhappy_jack on Sep 10^th, 2006, 7:55pm

I'm usually happy_jack - and changed my name for the next few weeks.

Diagnosed with Episodic cliusters back, lemme see... about 1975. Neurologist told me at 26, I was the youngest clusterhead he'd seen. Anyway, after about 15 years chronic, I fell (thankfully) into a 5 year cycle. In 2000, my doc told me the good news was people don't usually get these after 50. 2005-nothing! Made it right through the summer and fall. The curse was over!!!!

Of course, maybe clusters can't count, cause here they are, all back and wreaking hell with me.

So, thanks for being here - I need to get myself settled down fo the beginning of my "nightly" ritual.

Jack

Title: Re: Greetings!
Post by georgej on Sep 11^th, 2006, 12:16am

Welcome, Jack. Sorry you're getting hit again.

I'm episodic as well, and started at thirteen. I'm 52 now. Finished my latest cycle late this spring. Over the years, my cycles have gotten farther and farther apart--are now three years between--but the Beast is still around, apparently.

I don't know about clusters "usually" disappearing after fifty. There are some here who've *started* at fifty.

Not to sound discouraging at all, though...as you know, it's possible to live with them, although it's a complete pain in the a%$.

We're here to help you through them in any way we can. Feel free to vent, ask questions, or whatever. We've all been there.

Tell us a little more about yourself. What medications are you on? How do your symptoms present? How long do your cycles last? I don't medicate, so I'll defer further medical comments and questions to those with greater medical knowledge.

Just know that you've come to the finest place there is for us on the 'net.

Welcome home.

Regards,

George

Title: Re: Greetings!
Post by MJ on Sep 12^th, 2006, 1:24am

Hi jack stick around. I too have had these things about the same time as you.

Just getting started on a 5 year break though maybe you can guide me.

Title: Re: Greetings!
Post by unhappy_jack on Sep 12^th, 2006, 8:44am

Thanks for the welcome. I've tried a few times to post another reply, but the pain muses haven't been on my side. No sooner to I start to write, I'm sitting, head in hands.

Right now, I'm trying Verapamil and Indocin for prevention. and Lithium, too.

ain't preventing much though...

for attacks it's been imitrex spray and tabs. Last time around, this worked pretty good. doesn't seem to be this time.

Talked with my doc and his nurse yesterday, and maybe going to try the methergide route. He's wishing we could still do Sansert - but alas, nothing there.

Actually had a good night - 3 hrs sleep for the 2AM special arrived, the when it was gone at 4:30, I got 2 more hrs sleep. Something seriously F@#ked up about thinking that's a good night.

And today begins week 4, so I'm kind of celebrating that hopefully, I'm on the downside of these.

The really good natural thing happening is thetemp outside has dropped. I have my "room" set up on a side porch. Cardboard and wrapping paper stuck up over the windows to minimize light. Big fan... and when it gets crancking, I can keep cool (sweating, in only a pair of shorts, but the air temp is 46). I've always found that cool helps, especially if I can focus some of my thoughts on shivering...

Take care - more later....

Jack

Title: Re: Greetings!
Post by chopmyheadoff on Sep 15^th, 2006, 3:09am

sorry your getting hit my friend - thats some nice break you had . .

have you not tried the imitrex shots ?? not sure about the US but in the UK it is the only thing recommended in the GP's prescription guide book !!