Posted by Margi (207.148.142.52) on September 21, 1999 at 12:30:38:
In Reply to: 12 Weeks - How much more? posted by Gary on September 21, 1999 at 11:51:54:
Hi Gary,
My husband was at the same point you are at now. He has tried most meds (well, all that we can get here in Western Canada) and had built up an immunity to Imitrex. Finally, out of desperation, I gave him three Gravol (or Dramamine in the States) before bed. It causes sleep as a side effect but doesn't let you get into the REM phase which is where the Beast can find you. It got him through the night, no attack, and he got the much needed sleep that made him stronger to fight the next day.
Next, we tried the water treatment (DJ has put it up on the board right there <----- on the left side bar). It doesn't work for everyone but it broke Mike's cycle within two days and ended it within a week. Definitely worth trying if you can stand that much water. Please check with a doc though if you have any kidney or other underlying medical prob that might endanger you.
Oxygen - Mike can get relief if he catches the attack early enough.
Ice - he uses those gel-filled ice bags on the back of his neck. It really seems to help him stay calm and he believes it does help him with his pain.
Mike has now been in remission for 11 months and, although it looks like he may be heading into cycle again, it hasn't happened yet. I'm watering him again and so far, we've been able to keep it at bay.
Please feel free to email me directly and, if your wife needs to vent as well, tell her I'm here.
Hope you find some relief soon, Gary.
Water Water Water
Margi