Does any one know how these things are really affecting us?  I am wondering how many brain cells have been killed off by this?  Before I was diagnosed I was sure it was setting me up for a stroke, but that never happened.  How are we going through so much pain without something breaking?  Other possible effects on our bodies?  This is something I haven't heard about from anyone, including the doctors, although I will ask on my next visit.

I'd be interested to see any data that shows any long-term physiological effects. Not sure they exist as we all deal with pain differently.

As to killing brain cells? I'm pretty sure that doesn't happen - other than the normal day-to-day kill rate. It does, however, seem as though a number of CH'ers like to tip a few when not in cycle (even a few WHILE in cycle). It would be extremely difficult at best to do a controlled study on this.

Not much research that I am aware of - although this discussion brings to mind the fact that a very high percent of clusterheads have apnea ... I think a good doctor should order a sleep study for anyone with clusters simply because of the risks related to that.

I know excatly how you feel.  I used to go to my doctor and say that there was no way there was nothing wrong in there(as the eeg, and mri showed)   there simply hasto be something wrong,  either something thats causing the pain, or some damange that is resulting from these headaches.  
How is it possible that there isnt anything physiologically wrong????????
chrisw :-[ :-[ :-[

Oh you silly children..... it's all that gray matter in our hypothallamus that's making us HURT... I thought everyone knew that... :D  

It's also what makes us so brilliant and artistic...  ::)

We're the only NORMAL people in the world...

Hugs BD :-*