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(Message started by: tm4drmn on Feb 11th, 2004, 12:35pm)

Title: Intro - Help!
Post by tm4drmn on Feb 11th, 2004, 12:35pm
Late last week started with a headache of a type I've never had before - immediate awful pain in the left side of my head with tearing and nasal congestion. The next day, same thing again. It only lasted a few minutes.  The next day, again, but a few hours later in the day, and the day after that, another couple hours later, but same thing.  Thought maybe I was also getting an eye infection as my eye was puffy on the same left side. Now, having researched the internet about headaches, I'm pretty well convinced I am suffering cluster headaches.  Found this site today, and have spent the morning reading about CH.  Last night was the worst so far. After a good day of no pain and my eye seeming to return to almost normal, I woke up with what felt like some creature wandering around in my head pounding relentlessly on my sinuses, my upper jaw, temple, skull. Still experiencing what I belive you describe as shadows - sort of a dull ache on the left side.  At least (so far) the severe pain isn't lasting more that 10 minutes, but I fear worse to come.

I need to see a doctor and do something about this. Question is, who do I see? My new GP sucks since my old one retired. I've heard mention of neurologists here, and have found some GPs who specialize in headaches listed at another internet site.  Do any of you live in my area who could recommend me to someone in particular.  Knowing the current state of "managed care" and recognising that I need help ASAP, I'd prefer not to waste time with a doctor who doesn't get it when it comes to CH.   I'm in Barrington, IL. Thanks for any help!! This looks to be a great site for advice and info.

Title: Re: Intro - Help!
Post by 9erfan on Feb 11th, 2004, 3:27pm
Hi,

I would definitely recommend that you get in to see a Neuro.  Go to the OUCH website (button on left) and look under Cluster Help for a list of recommended Dr's.  You need to have the standard tests (MRI, CAT Scan) to rule out something more serious.
If you do have Clusters (and it sounds like you may) welcome to our neurotic family.

Virginia

Title: Re: Intro - Help!
Post by thomas on Feb 11th, 2004, 4:26pm
Ditto.  Welcome :)

Title: Re: Intro - Help!
Post by Bob_Johnson on Feb 11th, 2004, 4:34pm

PHYSICIANS--LOCATING HEADACHE SPECIALISTS

The National Headache Foundation, 1/888-643-5552, will send a list of doctors, by state, who have self-identified themselves as being interested and experienced in treating headache.
I suggest using this source for several reasons: first, we have read several messages from people who, even seeing neurologists, are unhappy with the quality of care and ATTITUDES they have encountered; second, the clinical director of the Jefferson (Philadelphia) Headache Clinic said, in late 1999, that upwards of 40%+ of U.S. doctors have poor training in treating headache and/or hold attitudes about headache ("hysterical female disorder") which block them from sympathetic and effective work with the patient; third, it's necessary to find a doctor who has experience, skill, and a set of attitudes which give hope of success. This is the best method I know of to find such a physician.

www.HEADACHECARE.COM. See physician finder; limited listings.

WWW.ACHENET.ORG American Council for Headache Education.


Title: Re: Intro - Help!
Post by Callico_Kid on Feb 12th, 2004, 11:47pm
Welcome aboard.  It sounds a lot like CH from what you describe, and I would strongly suggest a good Neuro.  Being in Barrington you are in luck.  I strongly recomment Dr. Thomas Freedom, my neuro.  He recently took a different position as dept head in a hospital on the North side.  I will try to find his address and get it to you as I have not seen him since he moved in Jan.  

I'm down here in Aurora, so feel free to IM me if I don't get back to you quickly enough.

Jerry



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