Hey guys,

After 15 years of running around, I have finally been diagnosed with Cluster Headaches. It's been quite a struggle so far. Attacks started when I was 10, and I went through a lot of theories. Need for glasses, light sensitivity, tumours, chronic headaches. I even had a doctor turn around and tell me that "Sometimes, positive thinking goes a long way. You should try it".

I've had Imitrex, which helps, but it is way too expensive. I try to keep it for the times I really think I'm going to die.

My neurologist has just started me on "Isoptin" (cannot remember the dosage off hand). It has actually been helping, but since it's meant to be blood pressure medication, I am feeling faint, dizzy and light-headed all the time. It is much better than having attacks though.

Has anyone else tried this medication before? Any results? I am a bit hesitant of moving up to 3 tablets at day (as requested by the neurologist), especially since the light-headedness is quite pronounced (I have passed out in the shower twice in the past 3 weeks).

Otherwise, they are fairly standard cluster headaches: cycles of usually 8-12 weeks, 3/4 a day, around the same time each time, and rest period that varies (from 3 weeks to a record 16 months when I was 14!) They do migrate from one side to the other every 5 years or so. Random much?!

Thanks guys!

Thanks for the heads up... Time to save up some cash to pay him another visit!

G'day from over the other side of the ditch

You've come to the right place to learn so much about how to work to limit the impact of CHs on you.

You've a preventive, although as noted you need to make sure it's working right for you. If isotopin (verapamil) isn't right then there are alternatives like lithium and topomax. You'll need to work with your doctors to find what works best for you.

Have you tried oxygen? Read all about it on the link on the left. Using it I average a 6 minute abort to kill off a CH with none of the side effects from imitrex.

Keep reading and asking questions.

And there will be some Aussies along shortly too who can give you more local info.