Posted by Tina (12.1.252.11) on July 24, 2001 at 15:28:41:
In Reply to: need tips on dealing with husbands pain posted by keri on July 24, 2001 at 13:11:31:
Hi Keri,
I'm 29 and in the same boat as you. My significant other just finished a cycle of clusters and this board is a real lifesaver. I just found it near the end of his cycle but stick around for the people - there's very few people in the world that KNOW what you are going through and a lot of them are right here. I needed more support than he did and he's the one going through the headaches! He pretty much didn't feel like participating much but it helped me tremendously to know that there were people here that just knew how I felt and knew we weren't insane! First thing I do when he gets one is give him the ice pack and leave the room. He does not want to be spoken to unless he speaks to me - he curses, paces, and cries (sometimes he is crying - sometimes the eye is just tearing from the headache.) Usually nothing works and it lasts 20-30 minutes but like Margi says, the closer he gets to the door...sometimes you just have to go to the ER and put them out of their misery. They know their own pain level and when they say "gotta go to the ER" they MEAN it. Don't be afraid to post or email any of us. It is hard to see the pain and it is also very demanding on YOU emotionally. I felt like we were both ill for the couple months he had his cycle. I could still go to work but coming home was hard and it was like living in a shrouded house or something. Hang in there - read EVERYTHING you can get your hands on and make suggestions when he isn't hurting. Also if you're open to alternative treatments you should really read the section on this site about it - I hear wonderful things about it and my other half will definately be trying that next cycle.
Take care and know you aren't alone!