Posted by Dennis O'C (209.34.2.156) on January 31, 2002 at 00:36:43:
In Reply to: Panic disorder posted by Justin on January 30, 2002 at 22:07:51:
last summer.
At that time I was and still am using Verapamil for my Clusters. At that time I was and still am Cluster free.
BUT.....For the panic/depression thing I was treated with Zoloft and a few other meds. For months this thing never quite left. It would worsen and back off a little as the doc increased the meds. My life was kinda shitty so that presumably caused the panic/depression thing that I affectionately referred to as "the heebeejeebees".
...uh....I neglected to mention to the doc that I was a drunk. The second day in rehab all the panic/depression symptoms vanished. HELLO!!! I'm an alcoholic. I have not had a drink since and feel better than I have in years.
A lot of Clusterheads are heavy drinkers and some don't drink at all. Some of us are alcoholics and some aren't.
There is available 100% guaranteed help for those with the disease of alcoholism.
I wish I could say the same about Clusterheadaches. Butt this website offers the closest thing.
Here are some steps I took....I mention them only by way of my opinion. Take what ya need and leave the rest.
Step1. Admit CH sucks
Step2. Believe that some method of pain management found here will help.
Step3. Make a decision to NOT turn yer will and yer life over to the care of someone just because they are called a doctor.
Step4. Make and keep an inventory of yer meds, circumstances, sustinance, and habits as well as the time and length of yer Clusters.
Step5. Share this info with other Custerheads and yer doc.
Step6. Realize you are getting better if only mentally from yer fellowship here.
Step7. Post answers, comments, and welcomes to folks who come here in need. Butt don't expect anything in return. Don't become Prince of the site. You inevitably will get yer feelings hurt.
Step8. Realize and remember that there is no one certain known cause or cure for CH.
Step9. Closely follow directions and give each med and/or tecnique plenty of time before you decide it doesn't work for you.
Step10. Continue to take personal inventory and when wrong, promptly admit it.
Step11. Through good thoughts, wishes, spells, visualizations, prayers or whatever works for you, help us and yerself to "keep on the sunny side"
Step12. You only walk alone if you choose to...join OUCH
Walk in the sunshine
den