Posted by Michael Wilson (207.74.116.42) on November 24, 2000 at 11:45:35:
Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
I have been experiencing episodic cluster headaches for the last ten plus years.In late September of this year, as usual, the first indications of the start of another episode arose from nowhere--the dull aura in my left temple--and for two months now I've been experiencing another disruptive bout of CMs. I was using Cafergot which worked for about three weeks although the detrimental affects of the caffiene were starting bother me as much as the headaches.
During one particularly 10+ level CM (conveniently occuring when I was out of any medication) caused me to go into the ER. After two hours of waiting, part of which I spent explaining a cluster headache to a third year resident, I was given a prescription and sent home. By then, it was gone.
However, I did get a referal to a headache clinic and
had my appointment just two weeks ago. They prescribed
for me and I was excited about using a "new generation" treatment for my CMs.
The longer I go through these cycles, the more that I am convinced that the enviromental triggers must play
a crucial role in causing these headaches. Between the headaches and the subsequent vomiting, sneezing, tearing, and need to "use the bathroom"; I am very curious to know whether there is a common chemical component involved in these triggers.
Personally, alcohol, chocolate, caffiene, and nuts (and,unfortunately, sometimes sex) can all be triggers of a CM.
My request is that you email me the triggers that you think trigger your clusters.
Please include the following:
AGE:
SEX:
USUAL SEASON WHEN CM OCCURS:
TRIGGERS:
DO YOU EXPERIENCE SEASONAL ALLERGIES? Yes or No.
Thanks for your participation!
Michael Wilson