Posted by Paul Kwo on April 02, 1999 at 08:57:11:
In Reply to: Re: antibiotics and CH posted by Ueli on April 01, 1999 at 19:16:25:
I agree that clusters can be precipitated by antibiotics and likely candida proliferation is the reason. Taking diflucan or nystatin orally can probably decrease the amount of candida. I have been able to keep my clusters away with oral nystatin. However, I am convinced there are other triggers as well including viral infections (which alters immune system) and general anesthesia (triggered a cycle, no antibiotics given) in addition to the well known triggers (seasons, alcohol etc.) Candida is an important cause I believe for many w/ clusters but not all. I believe there is an underlying genetic predispotion to dilation of cranial vessels that can be triggered by a variety of causes which makes this such a frustrating condition to treat. Only other advice I can give is that when I feel cycle coming on (wake up at night, shadows etc) before the cycle arrives, I start on low dose elavil (25 mg) each night. Sleep disruption as everyone knows makes the situation worse and I believe excacerbates the cycle through a vicious feedback (less sleep at night, more tendency to REM during day, more cluster pain). Getting a good night's sleep ( easier said than done) is key to fighting these headaches. Melatonin has been helpful for me on occasion as well. Keep trying and good luck.