I've been episodic since the mid 80s....having been formally diagnosed a cluster head in 92.  I've seen my share and am unfortunately quite familiar with cluster headaches.  My last episode was a pretty brutal one lasting from January 09 through May.  It was ugly.

About a month ago I experienced a bad cold.  I started having headaches on a regular basis.  They were unpleasant but no cluster.  There are some similarities such as frequently occurring about the same time, during the day and evening.  The pain is on one side and I feel pressure behind my eye.  My brain feels like it is on fire...but I don't get all sweaty.   These headaches actually respond to ibuprofen or Excedrin. 

So I went to see my normal doctor thinking maybe it is a sinus infection.  He treats me with prednisone, an anti biotic and some decongestant.  Worked great for 3 days while on the pred.  Now off...the headaches are back.   

Soooo....I'm wondering....am I having a cluster episode but it is just different?  Doesn't' seem right after over 20 years that they would be.  Has anyone else experienced something like this?

Thanks

Thanks Charlotte
It is kind of hard to compare duration.  When the "real" clusters hit, I use O2 and their duration is relatively short (thank god).  I have not tried O2 on these and they are mild by comparison so I just ride them out or take some pain relievers. 

I plan to call my Dr back today and give him an update.  I may go see my neuro and see what she says.  I'll ask them both about the paroxysmal hemicrania

I appreciate this information since my attacks have also changed over the years.  My first cycle of CH I distinctly recall was 29 years ago in the fall and I have seen many different types of cycles, some more severe than others.  Good luck..wishing you MANY PF days and nights---I am on day 7 PF!!!

jhgnopain wrote on Oct 20^th, 2009 at 11:33pm:


You go JHG!