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        Cluster Headache Help and Support >> Getting to Know Ya >> Another newbie. . .
        
(Message started by: ashleybrooke on Mar 7^th, 2008, 9:14pm)

Title: Another newbie. . .
Post by ashleybrooke on Mar 7^th, 2008, 9:14pm

Hello all! My name is Ashley, I'm 24 and an episodic CH sufferer. My first attack was back in January of '05 and it lasted around 3 months. At the time I was under the impression it was allergy or sinus related. I remember taking ginger and some other herbs and then one day my achin' head was magically gone! Couldn't it have stayed asleep a little longer?! I am currently in an episode that has been going strong for about 2 1/2 weeks now. It wasn't until this Tuesday night, my longest attack 2 hours, that I found out about CH. Well I am uninsured and won't even go into the details of the battle that I've had so far with doctors, and it's only been 3 days! Seems as though its a story some of you know all too well. So far I have been prescribed Lortab, Prednisone, and Indocin. None of which I have yet to fill. So I haven't tried much of anything really, other than a personal vaporizer and some Zyrtec when I thought allergies again. Hey, I live in Florida we blame everything on allergies! I have a 9 month old son and used to think I was tired before. .ha! I hate knowing that my abilities to care for him completely diminish when I get hit, then adding some of these medications into the mix. .makes me very apprehensive. But hey I'm open minded and ready to learn. What next. .should I fill the Prednisone? Go for a more natural approach? I asked the neuro for O2 but he wanted me to try the prednisone first, then see me in 2 weeks. I am quickly getting the understanding that everyone responds differently to treatments. Going to keep doing my homework, go with instincts and any advice I find here. Trial and error right? This is such a wonderful site and you are all brave folks! I was relieved to have been sent here, that no, you are not crazy and not the only one, at the same time saddened to know there are many people fighting this battle. I'm on my 3rd night of taking a benadryl to pass out . . I was waiting pretty late before taking it but tonight decided to get this sh*t over with!! Take care everyone. .and thank you for letting me share my story so far. .
-Ashley

Title: Re: Another newbie. . .
Post by Superdave on Mar 7^th, 2008, 9:26pm

Welcome ashleybrooke,

Wer'e always ready for a new team mate in this battle. Join in ask any questions you have, You'll be feeling better in no time :)

It's a great place to be in a bad time 8)

Superdave

Title: Re: Another newbie. . .
Post by mcashes on Mar 7^th, 2008, 11:52pm

Welcome Ashley - I found this site only this past Saturday, these folks are great, they really are family, they truely care for each other (including us newbies) and you're now a member of that family. Read the "water X 3" page at the link to the left and give it a try. It's helping me and it's free! Keep your head up.

Mark

Title: Re: Another newbie. . .
Post by Bob_Johnson on Mar 8^th, 2008, 8:06am

Of the 3 meds which you have, only the Pred is appropriate for Cluster. Raises two questions: is the doc unsure about the diagnosis; is this doc a specialist in headache. Many neurologists don't have the skill/interest in headache--but then you have the issue of no insurance. Fill us in on this issue in future messages and let's see where that takes you.

But, I'd start the Pred at once. It will break the cycle very quickly. At the same time you should also be starting a preventive med; it reduces the frquency of attacks for the long haul. (link follows.) Oxygen is good for many but I think the immediate benefit of the Pred is important.

As you have time, start exploring the buttons on the left with special attention to the collection of materials at OUCH.

This link gives you a tool to lead a discussion of your options with the doc. He can't challenge the source of this article.

http://www.plainboard.com/ch/chtherapy.pdf

Here is a link to read and print and take to your doctor. It describes preventive, transitional, abortive and surgical treatments for CH. Written by one of the better headache docs in the U.S. (2002)

Title: Re: Another newbie. . .
Post by DennisM1045 on Mar 8^th, 2008, 11:57am

Hi Ashley,

Welcome! I'm sorry you have to find us but I'm glad you did. Bob has given you some great info. That'll help your Dr help you.

In the mean time read everything here. You have much to learn.

There is a wealth of info both here and at OUCH-US.org. Be sure to check out the non-med page on OUCH-US for more natural solutions.

http://www.ouch-us.org/chgeneral/nonmed.htm

Let us know how you make out and how we can help.

-Dennis-