Does anyone know if there is any relationship between flying and clusters. Mine were gone for nearly 3 years then I took a trip that required flying. A week later they came back. Not sure if the flying and cabin pressure or altitude had anything to do with it or was coincidental.

Anybody know of any information on this or if anyone else has experienced problems with airplanes and clusters.

Thanks everyone

Mike

I wish I could be of more help on this issue since I was a pilot for most of my adult life.  Here is what I can recollect.

As a navy pilot we were always wearing an oxygen mask.  Lots of O2, never a CH.

As a commercial airline pilot I only remember 1 big Kip'er.  Flying definitely does not trigger the cycle and it was very rare that I had a CH while flying during my cycle.

I was undiagnosed for many years and as the pain would just disappear for several years, I didn't really pay much attention to them.  Hurts for a few weeks, see the eye doctor, get a slight tweek to my very light prescription and by that time the cycle was ending anyways.  hmmm, must be my sensitive eyes.  Until that stopped working and my alergy doc said he thought they were clusters.  Then I really checked into it and yep, clusters.  That explained a lot.

So no, I don't think a connection between clusters and flying.  Some things that happen flying and as a passenger can trigger.  Once a flight attendant came into the cockpit freshly perfumed.  Within a few minutes I had a doozy.  I thought I was just allergic to the scent.  Blah blah blah, I'll spare you the stories.

--Shaggy

I'm with the others here. I think when it's time to get hit you're just going to get hit - it don't matter where you are or what you're doing.

I've flown quite a bit -- and have got hit in the air, on the ground, on the runway, etc, but can't put my finger on any one trigger...

It's just something we all LIVE with... when the demon strikes - he strikes!!!

Good point Charlie.  I don't know if this is what happened to you but it made me think, rapid descent can cause all sorts of sinus issues especially if you are nursing a cold or a little clogged up.  Sinuses around the eyes and nose can tear and I hear it is like having an ice pick jammed in your face.  Sometimes followed by sinus infections etc. 

Since the Clusters affect similar areas of the head there would be a chance of confusing the pains.  Both hurt tremendously I am told.  Never had the pleasure of tearing my sinuses, had the CH pleasure many times thank you.

Airlines don't usually descend very fast, but private planes could especially if they don't pressurize much.  If you are really stuffed up though even and airliner's descent could hurt.  yada yada yada, enough flying chat.

--Shaggy

Had one of my worst ch on a plane- of course it might have been the crying baby behind me.........