So here I am 2 years and some months later and I am back! It was so strange reading my posts from august 2012. EXACT same symptoms, exact same thing, same numbness same side of head etc!

Hi there, and welcome back although I'm sorry you have had to find us again.

I don't have numbness in my hands, just around my top lip during a CH. But I understand your other symptoms. I call them after pains. My teeth, cheekbone and temple feels like I've been punched in the face for a few hours  after a CH, and just as it starts to ease off the next CH comes around. I've had as many as 10 per day on bad days.

Oxygen is brilliant if you use it properly. You must have a minimum flow rate of 15 litres per minute with a non re-breather mask. A lower flow and the wrong mask will not work efficiently. Have a look at the yellow tab on the left of your screen titled "oxygen info". Lots of information there that may help.

Imitrex is also fantastic. Forget the pills - as you say they take too long to become effective. The spray is better, but best of all is the auto injections. Easy to use and carry around but expensive. If you can get them, and you don't have any contra-indications or adverse effects,  it's wise to collect a few when you are in remission so that you are well prepared when you need them. It also helps to spread the cost. You can only use 2 per day so I save mine for when I'm out (I never leave home without them) and use the oxygen when I'm at home.

Verapamil is the best preventative but it takes a couple of weeks to become effective, and is usually prescribed with prednisone. The pred acts immediately and should be tapered off slowly so that by the time it's finished the verapamil will be working. You need a very high dose of verapamil - about 240 mgs I think, but if you research on these boards you will find the answer. Hopefully some one else will come along and confirm this.

Finally buy your self some redbull drinks and drink one down REALLY FAST at the first sign of pain. The combination of caffiene and taurine in a sudden hit can often abort a CH if you are quick enough.It doesn't work for everyone, but many here swear by it. Any energy drink with those ingredients will do. ie- monster, rockstar or redbull.

Hope this helps. Come back and let us know how you get along.
Maz.