justaddwater Posted August 18, 2011 Share Posted August 18, 2011 Hello, I hate to ask most of the same questions again but all you can do is kick me out. I have had CH since early teen years and I'm now 46. After two years of peace the damn thing is back, I'm getting very little sleep, getting hit several times a day as well. I thought I had found my own "cure" when I went to a chiropractor last time around and he did the neck popping thing for several days and they stopped. Maybe I was just at the end of that cycle because I have went back to him and that's not helping. I lost my job a couple years back, and so have no insurance not that it ever helped me to go to a medical doctor before. After loosing my job I started school and I'm working towards my nursing RN license now. Fall semester has just started and I'm getting slammed during class and can't even get up and pace, aside from the fact its hard to concentrate with a hatchet buried in my head. I just need some advice, being a nursing student I will be drug tested so much of the treatments are not going to be practical for me. Would you suggest O2 and the B vitamins? I have to get a handle on this cause I'm already getting behind on the mountain of reading that I must do for this nursing program. Any advice is appreciated. I wish there was some way for people to comprehend what this is like, the term "headache" just doesn't do this shit justice. That's kind of like saying someone passing kidney stones has a belly ache. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bejeeber Posted August 18, 2011 Share Posted August 18, 2011 Hi Justy, O2 - as in high flow 100% O2, not the commonly prescribed low flow/rebreather O2 - is an absolute must for you IMO. I would personally also hop right on that specific D3 for CH regimen, even if that's not the exact focus of this forum. Another very important thing I think is to try to find out exactly what sort of drug testing is done, because the way I've heard it, testing for something like LSA or psilocybin is expensive and not usually done. You could be in the clear and ready to bust (??). Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
justaddwater Posted August 18, 2011 Author Share Posted August 18, 2011 Thanks Bejeeber, Your probably right that they wouldn't be testing for anything beyond the common drugs but another of my worries is that if I were to try to get my hands on shrooms, and since there no doubt illegal here, I could conceivably get busted for possession. Not that I ever heard of anyone getting busted with them around here, but my luck I would, and anything like that would mean I lose my nursing license. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bejeeber Posted August 18, 2011 Share Posted August 18, 2011 Sounds like you might be better off with RC (Rivea Corymbosa) seeds for busting to start with - and maybe finish with too - since they are legal to order and possess. That is if there indeed won't be any testing for LSA, which is the active busting ingredient in RC. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
justaddwater Posted August 19, 2011 Author Share Posted August 19, 2011 What are the effects of RC seeds? Isn't it a type of hallucinogen? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bejeeber Posted August 19, 2011 Share Posted August 19, 2011 RC reportedly can be a hallucinogen in very high doses, but that sort of dose would be much higher than a therapeutic CH dose. At a fairly generous 40-50 seeds before bed CH dose, the main side effect for me (and for others who have reported the same here) is a better than usual night's sleep. I've found it to definitely be much more mild acting than a therapeutic dose of mushrooms. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
justaddwater Posted August 19, 2011 Author Share Posted August 19, 2011 Thanks, I'll think about it. What source do you use to order them? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
dereksgirl Posted August 19, 2011 Share Posted August 19, 2011 I hate to ask most of the same questions again ask away So sorry to hear of your pain. I know you will get answers, hope and help here. I hope that you will be able to try the RC seeds, but I understand your concerns. I do know that not that long ago there was discusion on how long the LSA would stay in the system. I believe the average consent was 3 days, but web searches suggest the possibility of up to 8 days. But again, it is not commonly tested for and it is not on the average drug panel. If for some reason you are unable to bust, I would just like to make sure that you are aware of our sister site - CH.com There you will find more information on the common treatments available for CH. Although most are expensive, have side effects and often are not effective at long term treatment. I have posted a thread hoping to rally up anyone else in the medical field that might be able to give you more advise.... PF wishes to you, Dereksgirl Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
justaddwater Posted August 19, 2011 Author Share Posted August 19, 2011 Thanks dereksgirl, I'm just up after getting about 1.5 hrs sleep and then woke with a killer. Strong coffee and ice seemed to help. I'm to the point of not wanting to go to sleep because I know I'll get slammed as soon as I get into deep sleep. I will check out the sister site, I have not found it yet but the brains not working full speed. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
dereksgirl Posted August 19, 2011 Share Posted August 19, 2011 It would probably help us if we knew a little more about what you have tried (if anything) in the past med wise. There are alot of none "medicinal" things that can help with CH (varies from person to person) for example, as you mentioned caffeine. Have you tried Ice packs on your neck/head, cold shower, vigorous exercise, energy drinks? Not sure how much info you have on CH and how to fight it... There are some who have gotten relief from Licorice Root Extract, and many others with the Vit. D regimen that Jeebs mentioned. But again, I would stress that busting has the best track record, the longest lasting effects and comes with the with the least side effects available. Don't cross it off your list yet. Let us know a little more about where you are coming from and what you have tried in the past... we're all pullin for you. Take care... DG Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
justaddwater Posted August 19, 2011 Author Share Posted August 19, 2011 I have tried some of the migraine meds, never found any of that to help. For many years I convinced myself that it was a sinus condition and doctors prescribed all those type of meds, of course non of that helped. I have probably taken way too many OTC analgesics for my liver over the years. It was probably ten years ago when I finally came across a PA who knew that I was describing CH, he sent me to a neurologist which was just a waste of time and money. A few years back, as I mentioned, I thought I had found that chiropractor alignment worked. I was looking at a website then which was probably the CH.com and mentioned it there. That thought wasn't very warmly received and I forgot about it and smugly thought they were a bunch of junkies trying justify getting a buzz on. So now the hatchet fairy returns to chop on my head at the exact time in my life when I need to be at my best. I have started a job as an LPN and am continuing my education, and this just sucks. People in my life are stating "Well, it must just be stress" How can they understand? Everyone gets headaches right? Anyway, you asked what helps me, temperature change seems to help be it hot or cold. Caffeine of course. Otherwise I'm at a loss. I've learned to deal with episodes that strike while working, they make you have to get up and be manic anyway so I could always channel that into work. Sitting in a classroom with a CH is just awful though, my fellow students are asking whats wrong, and a couple of times I've tried to put it into words but I better stop that because there going to start to think I'm loosing it. "Everyone gets headaches right? What's he mean feels like a hatchet in his head?" I had three years pain free, and either I've gotten soft or in this series the devils hitting homers every time. Perhaps quitting smoking would help? I just can't imagine getting woke from sleep with a ripper and not having a cigarette to calm down with. One more thing I tried was a teaspoon of hot pepper under my tongue, I don't remember where I read suppose to be abortive. The only effect I found was a burning mouth, but hell, I would squirt it up my nose if I thought that would help. Sorry for the rambling, its late and I'm frazzled. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bejeeber Posted August 19, 2011 Share Posted August 19, 2011 One more thing I tried was a teaspoon of hot pepper under my tongue, I don't remember where I read suppose to be abortive. The only effect I found was a burning mouth, but hell, I would squirt it up my nose if I thought that would help. LOL I've tried it up the nose! It was in the form of cayenne cream, and it actually aborted a couple lower level hits for me before that particular episode ramped up into high kip territory, at which point it lost all effectiveness. The way the beast is giving you the grand slam treatment right now I doubt it would do anything for you. :-/ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bejeeber Posted August 19, 2011 Share Posted August 19, 2011 Here's a link to one of the RC suppliers that CH'ers around here order from: http://www.iamshaman.com Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
dereksgirl Posted August 19, 2011 Share Posted August 19, 2011 Hey, I don't think quitting smoking would stop your clusters. Many have quit and still dance with the beast. My DH smokes and I can't imagine him being able to quit while in cycle . Don't beat your self up over that! Most people here would suggest you find a good headache specialist. Your garden variety neurologists don't know diddly about CH. That was our experience with our first neuro visit earlier this year. Wouldn't waste our time going back. I forgot about it and smugly thought they were a bunch of junkies trying justify getting a buzz on. yum crow, I am very experienced at eating that too What source do you use to order them? http://www.shamansgarden.com/p-251-rivea-corymbosa-seeds-ololiuqui.aspx There are a few places that people have ordered from, but I don't have that info handy. One of the places we were referred to, and where we ordered ours is linked above, many have used thier site and I haven't heard of any complaints. Their pricing is good. Sorry for the rambling, its late and I'm frazzled. Ramble away  Keep reading on the board. There is lots of helpful info, and lots of good folks ready to lend an ear Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
dereksgirl Posted August 19, 2011 Share Posted August 19, 2011 good night jeebs Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
tingeling Posted August 19, 2011 Share Posted August 19, 2011 Hi I don`t think mushrooms show up on a reg drug test no. Anyway, it`s out of your system very fast. Wouldn`t worry about that. When i feel my head is "confused", i take large doses of vit B2. Up to 200 mg. I think it helps me to think consentrate better. Your right, headache isn`t really describing this condition very well.... Have you tried holding a ice pack on your head and drink energy drinks like Red Bull or Monster? Drink it fast once you get a sign of an oncoming attack. Ask what you want, or complain if you want. We understand PainFreeWishes from me Tingeling Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ThatHurtsMyHead Posted August 19, 2011 Share Posted August 19, 2011 Engergy drink followed quickly with O2. knocks out 95% of my hits very quickly. On the drug testing: Some guys I roomed with years ago drank lots of water after a night of partying. Most importantly when they had a drug test scheduled (knew 6+ hours ahead of time). They would start hammering the water down. pee and keep peeing until it ran clear and they had to hit the cup.. ha... Basically that dilutes anything in your urine to undetectible levels (make it run clear). I know those guys would smoke pot and do coke (which stays in your system 4 to 6 weeks) and get tested a day or two after. None of them ever got caught on a urinalysis. With the understanding that LSA, LSD and Mushies have much smaller amounts of active chemicals. I'd think this process would work even better for them. Just make sure you don't drink too much water as I'm sure you're well aware can cause brain swelling. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
justme Posted August 19, 2011 Share Posted August 19, 2011 My CHer smokes much too! He is a chronic, the past two years, there have not been even a two day break! After a gamma knife surgery, his hits have changed from 6 - 8 daily to 2 - 3. But now they are building again. He is back to about 4 daily/nightly. I used to blame it on smoking too much, but now it is hard for me to want him to quit that when he is suffering. I see also that he lights up to try and "relax" (if that's what you call it). And at least it gives him something to do with his hands instead of pounding his head, or walls and things. He will "tap" his other hand, or feet also. I want to bring up this busting stuff, but it seems because I don't have "this problem" that I don't understand. I have watched this for many years. Our kids for years wondered why I stayed with him (but they did not understanding this illness) As a supporter, I guess you learn to not take many things personally and realize, it is the "beast" he hates, that he is angry with, that he is yelling at, that leaves him impatient. I still have so much to learn, and I'm not much of an encouragement to anyone yet. But I am hoping to one day be! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
justaddwater Posted August 19, 2011 Author Share Posted August 19, 2011 I cant' imagine having this as a chronic condition, my heart goes out to anyone dealing with this full time. As much as I hate the episodes at least I know they will eventually pass. I can understand how flushing the chemicals from the system can work and that they may not be looking for this anyway, but a drug test may also be in the form of a hair sample. No way to hide that unless you do a full body shave like a guy I once worked with. As for now I'm going to try conservative measures, the B2, try and get my hands on an O2 tank, I've read somewhere else that melatonin can help at night so I will try that as well. Thanks everyone Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ThatHurtsMyHead Posted August 19, 2011 Share Posted August 19, 2011 Justme, I can tell you that my angry, crazy, confused, twitchy irritable spells have gone from everywhere to nowhere since starting my busting regimin. I'm a much better person now, no doubt. I'm convinced it's 60% having the beast under control, 30% getting better sleep and 10% positive side effects of the busting treatments. Jeff Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
tingeling Posted August 19, 2011 Share Posted August 19, 2011 Melatonin helps for some yes. But detox it before busting. What Jeff says. After i started busting, my life is very changed to the better. Feeling angry and all that is more or less gone. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Psiloscribe Posted August 19, 2011 Share Posted August 19, 2011 Welcome, Hope we can help. If you go to the Clusterbuster Files section and scroll down to the Mushroom FAQ, there are a lot of ideas you can try, (One of them won't be a chiropractor) I used to go to one during cycles though just for the massages which helped some of the muscle problems in the neck. you'll find the propler dosing of the different B vitamins, Melatonin, Ginger tea etc. If you cant bust because of drug testing, I'd probably suggest giving Migranal a chance. Even if you wanted to give it a try while getting ready to try the seeds. Its a DHE, ergot derivative that could help. Its not cheap though unless you have insurance. (that doesnt make it cheap I guess, just makes the high cost paid by someone else) We dont suggest going out to buy mushrooms. It just isnt the way to go. The best way to get your hands on them is to grow them yourself. All the supplies you need can be found at Home depot, Ace Hardware and your local grocery store. The only thing that needs to be ordered are the spores and they are legal to purchase online. Bob Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
justaddwater Posted August 22, 2011 Author Share Posted August 22, 2011 So far I'm still too chicken to try anything that might potentially show up on a drug test. I tried the melatonin one evening and woke 3 times with CH but they weren't real bad. Today I when I started feeling one coming on I hit an energy drink fast and hard which seems to have aborted it. The migranal sounds promising but I'm without insurance at this time. I've been hitting the B's and avoiding alcohol. I'll keep reading the suggested posts and thanks to you all for the advice. Stephen Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bejeeber Posted August 22, 2011 Share Posted August 22, 2011 Hey Stephen - glad to hear that at least the energy drink action appears to hold some promise. Just FYI in case you haven't read this yet - Melatonin dosage range for CH is commonly considered to be 9 mg before bed for starters, all the way up to 18 mg or even 21 mg until you get best results, and this is known to be the most effective form: n-Acetyl-5-Methoxytryptamine We're rootin' for ya. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CHfather Posted August 23, 2011 Share Posted August 23, 2011 As others have said before me, at least until you decide that busting is worth it I can't imagine why you wouldn't try the simple, inexpensive vitamin D3 protocol that has helped many people quickly and also lastingly. Take about 10,000 international units per day of vitamin D3, taken with food; 2 or 3 calcium citrate tablets per day, with or without food (these tablets should also contain magnesium and zinc); and 2,000-4,000 mg per day of Omega 3 fish oil, with food. And two glasses of lemonade or limeade per day with meals. Many people start getting significant relief very quickly. The levels I listed above are the "default" levels--you might wish to adjust according to your own tolerance. These are not "megadoses"--all are within standard recommended daily allowances except the D3, which is high but not inordinately so. To read a great deal more about the D3 regimen, you could wade through the following thread: http://www.clusterheadaches.com/cgi-bin/yabb2/YaBB.pl?num=1291969416/0 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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