Posted by Wolf (63.24.54.213) on May 15, 2001 at 11:20:31:
Hello gang. My sympathy goes out to all of you, as well as my prayers.
My story, well.... Sad to say have been battling the beast for 20 yrs. Was chronic for many years with only short breaks in between. Cycles lasting 4-8 weeks with as many as 12 HA a day, going without sleep for over 48 hrs. I guess I am seeing some light at the end of the tunnel. As I get older (43, not afraid to admit it)the frequency is dropping. Have been told that would happen and eventually they would be gone. Now I look at every attack as the last. Might be silly, but helps me through. Still believe there is hope!
I am a lucky man with a wonderful wife who has helped me through these times again and again. Don't know what I would have done without her. Also am fortunate to have a great family doc, who has done more for me then any Nuro. Then again he has seen me at my worst. The whole staff is great there.
Have traveled the whole root of meds. From the start when not much was known about clusters, till now. Sadly most meds are ment for migraines and can not be taken at the frequency needed for some clusters. Oxygen does help me, temp, but doesn't stop them. The beast is strong and seems to keep coming and coming till he wins. Have been trying Maxalt, seems to help. Also have taken, and do take Verapimil. I think it shortens the cycle and spreads them out. Had luck with Prednison breaking the cycle, but tore my stomach up and added pounds I did not need. Imitrex, Amerge, etc. etc..... When it gets to the point I can't deal with it anymore it's off to the doc. He is a great guy who has learned allot about CH mainly from seeing me. He gives me what I like to call my happy cocktail. 3 shots, 1 each of Visteril, Imitrex, and Demoral. (I know my spelling stinks, please no grammar lessons needed). Breaks the cycle for a little and I really don't mind drueling on myself.
Now that I think about it, the more I write, the older I feel...lol.... hey no matter what happens, have to keep a sense of humor.
Well it has been more then long enough. Sorry about that, but feels nice to vent, and to share.
Great web site!
Thanks to all.....
Wolf