Posted by Rich Jr. (208.138.142.15) on June 14, 1999 at 01:27:10:
In Reply to: cluster posted by wig on June 12, 1999 at 01:56:33:
(reposted from earlier message from Rick)
I had chronic cluster attacks daily from age 15 to 20.
I had wisdom teeth pulled, orodontist treat for TMJ, you name
it. Finally was treated for Cluster Headache with Verapamil 80mg.
4 times a day and CaffergotPB for aborting the attacks. It
worked to break my chronic cycle, though in later years the
Verapamil was not as effective. Prednisone 20mg 3 times a day
has helped to break cycles, though again not everytime. I've
used Imitrex shots toward end of a cycle, headaches seemed to
occur multiple times daily - but eventually would stop altogether.
Oxygen seemed to abort an attack about half the time for me. The
Caffergot seemed to last longer and worked within 10 to 15 minutes.
Though it is hard to find these days (they quit making it I'm told),
there are many other types of ergotamine available. It does make
me naseous in 2mg dose, try cutting the Ergomar sublingual tabs in
half and drink with water (they tast like crap and take forever to
disolve). A chronic cycle can be broken. Find a different doctor if
you run into one who is unsympathetic/ineffective. ACHE has a web
site with referals http://www.achenet.org. Not all are full-time
headache treatment, but it has a description of each. Incidently I
have been averaging 6 to 8 weeks during a cluster cycle which arrives
about every 2 years. I also have found a TENS machine (transcutaneous
electrical nerve stimulation) helps to relief stiffness and pain in my
neck and back of my head during a cycle. This was a trick the orthodontist
used when I was treated for jaw joint problems. Back then it would stop
the daily headache attack for a few days, but it would always return. This
device is available from medical supply stores, but is expensive. I found
mine in a yard sale. Chiropractors often use a similar device in the way
of a clammy pad they place on your back. Best of luck to you. Do hang in
there with the job situation! Sorry such a lengthy message. God bless, Rich