I have bee dignosed with cluster headaches and have been out of my job on a short term disability.  The insurance company has recently denied any extension of my claim stating that they need "exactly what I cannot do on the job" and "medical proof I cannot do those tasks".  My doctor has told them over and over that I am debilitated with cluster headaches and should not work (I'm a computer programmer).  But his statements are ignored.

Has anyone ever encountered this type of situation?  And if so, do you have any suggestions?  Thanks

Yes - Get yourself on the D3 regimen, prevent CH from being a disability, and get back to work. Do not let this thing control your life.

I don't have any suggestions as to how to get your disability approved. Only that you need to read the following thread. Every word.

START PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGE

Hi hgerry and welcome

It is possible to work in IT with CH as that is what I do.

I wasn't working for a while when they first started, but once I got them under control, with a good preventive and abortive, I did get back to work and it made a huge difference to my life. All it takes, ok, slight exageration, is good planning and the effective treatment plan.

At work, people are aware I get CH, so if I just disappear from a meeting or from my desk having grabbed a bag they know I'll be back in 10 minutes or so. My bag has my CH supplies, so oxygen / regulator / mask, imitrex injections and Red Bull. I always work out before I have a CH where I'll go as I like somewhere private, so it could be a meeting room, unused office or stair well.

Being back in charge of your life is worth the effort it takes.

Tell us more about what you are using for preventives / abortives and we might be able to give some suggestions.

What Mike and Brew said!  They could not have said it better!

There are many of us who have had CH for years, but have been able to go on and live productive lives and do our jobs.  Some of us have had to make allowances and make some changes in what we do, but I don't see that being an issue for you.  As Mike said, let the people you work with know and step out, deal with it, and go back to work.

I would also suggest you go to START PRINTPAGEMultimedia File Viewing and Clickable Links are available for Registered Members only!!  You need to or END PRINTPAGE and check it out.  It has been life-changing for many.

In Sept there will be a Clusterbusters convention in Rosemont IL (Chicago area) that will be of tremendous value to you even if you don't choose to go the alternative route.  There is a lot of education plus you get a chance to meet a lot of other clusterheads and get the concept of 'I'm the only one" out of your mind.  It isn't as bad as it used to be since this site came online and esp. since FB, but CH can be a lonely world when you don't know anyone who understands you.  (Usually including your Dr.)

Jerry