Cluster headache
Definition: Nicknamed "
suicide headache", is a neurological disease that involves, as its most prominent feature, an immense degree of pain. "
Cluster" refers to the tendency of these
headaches to occur periodically, with active periods interrupted by spontaneous remissions. The cause of the disease is currently unknown. It affects approximately 0.1% of the population, and men are more commonly affected than women.
Wanted to keep you updated from the last post. I didn't want to keep you in suspense or worry you.
After a visit on Monday with a neurologist, we were advised the headache could be the result of three things. (1) the myeloma has returned; (2) an inflamed artery behind the eye; (3)
cluster headaches. A recommendation was made on a drug called Verapalmid. It is a blood pressure reducing medication. I was immediately against it as it does lower one's blood pressure. ChemoSabe has a long history of low blood pressure. An MRI was scheduled for October 7. (that would seem they aren't too worried)...
We visited with our MM doctor yesterday and she has no concern that the MM has returned. She also mentioned the
Clusters because she has her own history of these. Although there is no known cause, she strongly believes they are from stress. As she told us, "we have too many responsibilities".. She even suggested we get rid of some of the dogs. We was adamant about us spending a lot more alone time together. Yes, we are alone a lot, but .... we tend to do house chores or work chores first.
She suggested swimming, spa, massage (ChemoSabe's brows raised) and acupuncture. I reminded her we were instructed in the beginning he could not swim in pools, lakes or spas. She told us he is safe to do that now. So, I went home yesterday and raised the temp on the spa. I have kept the chemicals maintained the last three years. So, I stressed myself out getting it up and level again.. I felt a migraine coming.
She was concerned enough that she pushed the MRI up to this week. She also ordered a FNA. Raise your hand if you know what that is.... TEST!!! She wants to see him again next Tuesday (09/21) to discuss the test results. The neurologist told us we could not get in before the 7th...
The headaches are becoming more frequent (daily) and more severe. I have bumped him up from Aleve to Hydrocodone. Neither of which I prefer. The doctor told us to back off the Aleve because of kidney damage in MM patients. She suggested Tylenol.
We thought the Dex or Revlidmid was a factor, but if I had been on my toes as a caregiver I would remember that a steroid fights antiflammatory and pain. DUH!!! I failed that test. I bet you wouldn't
All-in-all, we have basically been enjoying life. Went to a motorcycle rally in Hot Springs. We have been enjoying the cooler weather. Both our jobs still keep us quite busy. He continues to travel the same. As we shared our details of the doctor's visit yesterday I told him I felt he really wasn't getting enough sleep. Sleep deprivation is something that really triggers my migraines. I have been warding one off all week and I know it has to do with worrying about his condition. It was a great relief for her to basically rule out a tumor. But, I'm glad she is doing more tests.
So, there you have it --- Short and Sweet. I will update you as soon as we hear something else. Until then, pray for relief of his pain.
Good afternoon and Love -- Pepper
