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        New Message Board Archives >> Medications, Treatments, Therapies 2002 >> Could I have some Med. advice? 
        
(Message started by: cappuccinocarrie on Sep 26^th, 2002, 9:53am)

Title: Could I have some Med. advice?
Post by cappuccinocarrie on Sep 26^th, 2002, 9:53am

Yet another attack,

I suffer about 2 -3 bouts a month, lasting 4-5 days, always severe.

My situation is this: Husband in graduate school, 2 small kids, work as a part-tiem massage therapist - no insurance, very tight budget now -
I'm not complaining, that is just how it is now.

I usually suffer it out, temporarily hope to die, and wonder why I am so stupid to do that.

I have codeine, have to take large dose for any kind of help - it just doesn't do it - my M.D. (not neuro) will prescribe probably anything I can suggest - (he has seen me almost at my worst) - But? yes, I have read the survey, and I have read the info in the site.
What is a good med for pain relief? cost-effectiveness, is an issue.

Also, does anyone have the info on the cost of oxygen therapy?

I know, I know, I should see a neuro,
I have tried contacting a couple of medical schools, for a student neuro, - with no success

If you have had similiar problem, let me know what you did?

Thank you and any and all suggestions appreciated.

Carolyn
(who is thinking of begging a neuro today)

Title: Re: Could I have some Med. advice?
Post by ChristineL on Sep 26^th, 2002, 10:30am

Carolyn,

I pay $55.00 a month rental for a "M" tank of Oxygen. The "M" tank is a big sucker that I keep next to my bed. You can also get smaller tanks. I recently went on a business trip to Florida and paid $15.00 to rent a portable tank for a week.

I am on Verapamil which has helped tremendously. Since I have insurance I am not sure what it costs straight out. I would suggest you call your pharmacist for pricing.

There are many med's that work for CH suffers. Print out the info from this site and take it to your Dr. I use a GP and she has been thrilled to have the info I have given her.

Hope this helps.

Chris L

Title: Re: Could I have some Med. advice?
Post by Marshall_D on Sep 26^th, 2002, 12:02pm

It sounds like you may have Migraines, as opposed to Clusters. Judging from your claim of 2-3 bouts a month lasting 4-5 days. I would definitely have them diagnosed by a Pain Mgt. Specialist, preferably someone who specializes in Headaches.

In the meantime, ask your MD about the oxygen therapy, and what Pain Relievers he/she would recommend until you get these things under control.

Title: Re: Could I have some Med. advice?
Post by Not4Hire on Sep 26^th, 2002, 2:29pm

Chris L wrote:

Quote:

I pay $55.00 a month rental for a "M" tank of Oxygen. The "M" tank is a big sucker that I keep next to my bed. You can also get smaller tanks. I recently went on a business trip to Florida and paid $15.00 to rent a portable tank for a week.

Chris:
Please describe the dimensions (how tall and diameter) of the "M" tank you use. The LETTER designations must vary from place-to-place, because where I live (Montana), an ML6 or M6 tank is the smallest one they have (6 or 5.8 cu. ft.) I rent an "S" tank (154 cu.ft.) which is about 4 feet tall and 7 inches in diameter. Has it's own wheeled dolly 'cause it weighs about 100 lbs.

My big ole green friend costs me $9.00(nine)/month rental and $18.00 per refill. I get a break from the supplier for payin cash...I have no insurance. An "E" tank...(22.5 cu.ft.) is good for about 4 HA's @ 10-12 LPM. This is the size most usually given as it's easy to handle. "E" tanks are $6.00/month rental and $10/refill.

Just wanted to compare notes as some folks are really gettin' ripped off for oxygen. Dr. (Robaxin) Douglas said he was payin over $100/"E" tank, if I remember correctly. This is sort of a favorite crusade of mine........