- Cluster Headaches
- Interviews
Stephanie's interview
How did all start?
My cluster headaches started in 2012 - I was at home with my friend when I suddenly developed a pressure type pain in my upper jaw / cheekbone. At the time I assumed this was toothache, shortly after it began it became so severe my friend called the hospital via the non emergency number for advice as I was assuming the pain was toothache which was radiating. How wrong was I.
Do you already have a diagnosis? How long did it take you to get it?
I was diagnosed in 2012 - 3 months after my first Cluster Headache.
For what medical specialties have you been treated? What has been the most useful specialty for your?
Neurology and headache specialist. Headache specialist has been by far the best and most useful.
What has been the most useful thing for you so far?
Home oxygen and Gammacore, support from the cluster headache support groups
What have been your biggest difficulties?
Living with cluster headaches in general, working shifts - and the most difficult .... the little understanding from anyone who doesn't have cluster headaches.
How has your social and family environment reacted? Have your social or family relationships changed?
My family - mainly my mum are aware and understand the affects of cluster headaches - I do not consume alcohol anymore as this can be a trigger.
What things have you stopped doing?
I have stopped drinking alcohol
What do you think about the future?
One day at a time .....
So far, which years have been the best years in your life? What have you done during them?
The best years were definitely the pre cluster years! Living without fear and without shadows hanging over me
What would you like to do if you didn’t have your condition?
Socialise more
If you had to describe your life in a sentence, what would it be?
Living hell
Finally, what advice would you give to a person in a similar situation?
Seek support, try treatments find out what works for you, reach out to fellow cluster heads! after all we are the only people who know EXACTLY how you feel!! We are like family!
Oh and get a decent neuro and headache specialist.
