Posted by James (64.217.53.2) on August 15, 2000 at 09:47:22:
In Reply to: Years and years of this shit............... posted by Stew on August 14, 2000 at 16:42:42:
When I first started getting clusters, 18 years ago, I was in a very stressful job and continued stressed out for some years. Ten years ago I changed my life and career. For the first year and one half I didn't have my usual year or twice yearly clusters. I thought I'd found the secret, but soon enough they came back. I've had an annual cluster every year that last 8 to 13 weeks. The only difference is the cluster changes seasons every few years from winter to spring and back again.
I'm 53 and had clusters for 18 years. During good times and bad they come. The stress factor may still be in play during a cluster, but that's not for sure either. I have attacks in the morning, afternoon, evening and for sure right at or after bedtime. The interesting thing is, from day to day you never know exactly when they're coming. A 3PM attack one day may be 6PM the next. It does seem that the earlier in the day the attack comes the pain seems less or is easier to abort, like with oxygen.
I've been tracking these things for many years now and there is still no rhyme or reason to them. In the middle of a cluster, as I am now, I tend to think that this really is a demon that plays tricks and has a mind of it's own.
I avoid all triggers and play it as safe as anyone can but the attacks still come. If you or anyone else figure it out, please let me know. I'll pray for you as I do for everyone with this terrible disease.