Posted by dsc (64.12.101.181) on February 25, 2001 at 10:38:41:
I am a episodic sufferer for 21+ years. I was told by another sufferer about 5 years ago to try rubbing zostrix (an arthritis cream medication) on my temple on the onset of a headache. I do this and then I apply a cold wet rag over the area. It does burn very much but that pain is not nearly as bad as the headache. It does seem to work for me although not completely, but I find most times is lessens the severity. You can find Zostrix as almost any drug store and it is sold over-the-counter.
The pain of these headaches is incredible and I have often considered jumping out of a window during a severe attack. I'm a little more at ease now that I found something which helps a bit. Although it is still scary to fall asleep, I keep the zostrix by my bed. Sometimes I even put a little on before I go to sleep at night during the episodic period. You can try putting it on the back on your neck also.
Like I said, it does burn, so when the attack is over, make sure you have some aloe vera gel to cool down the area once the attack has subsided.
Hope this helps. Good luck all.