Posted by Graham (195.92.194.46) on April 23, 2000 at 12:12:31:
In Reply to: Chemicals?? posted by Cranpain on April 22, 2000 at 22:48:20:
I am currently going through a phase in which the Verapamil I am taking is beating my clusters into submission (I am four years chronic so it is not a remission!). Subsequently, at the moment I can drink alcohol and have extra sleep in the mornings (when possible) without any problems. This is great because these are the only two guaranteed triggers for me that I know of. However, in a moment of madness last week I decided to do some painting. I do not make a habit of painting (ever!) because as far as I’m concerned that is what fathers are for! Nevertheless, while painting on two separate days I was rewarded with a cluster each time. On both occasions when the pain became annoying I stuck my head out of my flat window and inhaled some fresh inner city air for a few minutes. To my amazement the pain drifted away.
Now, being a science teacher, I come across lots of chemicals and strange smells, none of which have initiated an attack. Neither has perfume or after-shave. However, the paint did start a cluster. I was especially surprised due to the fact that I am getting away with drinking alcohol at the moment. There is obviously a chemical in paint that is a trigger for me. Damm, I do love to paint. . . . . honest!!!!
Best Wishes
G.