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Chronic tension headache diagnosis and long term management

Lost_Girl
Community Member

Hi I suffer from chronic pain. I have a bone shard impacting a nerve root at c8 being treated with cortisone. I have pain at c5 and c6 that is manageable without anything. However I have a constant headache and pressure in my ears that I have had for pretty much every waking moment for the last 7 months. As a result I have become depressed and I have insomnia.

After a trip to a neurologist I have been advised to cease sleeping medication and strong pain killers. I am now only on antidepressants.

A visit to my psychologist today has alerted me that depression does not cause headaches.   

Has anyone been treated for chronic pain with ONLY antidepressants and did it work?

I havr a referral now to a psychiatrist to check but it not until May. While I see if I can find something earlier I sm keen to hear if this has worked for anyone.

Thanks,

Carol

1,044 Replies 1,044

I'm so glad your pain has eased Carol, but it is a shame you're feeling so down.

Do you think it could be the meds like James said? Maybe you feel like a failure on some level (you're SO not!!). Hopefully it's just a down day and tomorrow you'll feel better 🙂

Try doing something nice, see if that helps. I hope it does 🙂

Carol, so glad to see your pain has eased up. Sorry you're feeling so low, though. I've found sometimes when I've had to push myself through something really difficult, when it's done it all just catches up with me and I crash pretty hard emotionally. Sounds like that's what's happening with you. Let it out for a while, then try and find something to do that you enjoy. Is it sunny where you are? I find sitting out in the sun for a bit improves my mood and actually gets me a bit motivated. Anyway, I hope your day improves.

Blue.

Sorry I haven't been online for a while hence I haven't been talking to you but often think of you. Sorry you are still having a bad time. Hopefully the low mood & the pain both disappear sooner rather than later. Just remember there are lots of people who care even if we can't actually help.

Hi Carol. Just here fleetingly. Glad to hear that your pain is slightly more bearable as a result of the increased meds. Hope you've had a reasonable day today and that your sadness has become a little less overwhelming.

Hopefully I will be able to come back again soon and be a bit more supportive.

Love and a hug in the meantime.

Sherie xx

Hi James and Emmy,

I looked at all of those, very cute. That island is amazing, I am surprised I had never heard of it. Thankyou, it made me smile.

Hi Narelle,

I don't think it is the meds but then maybe. They are just pain meds but they do make me super chilled out and dopey. It means I can't do much but at least the pain has eased a bit.

Hey Blue,

I think you're probably right. It rained today. I liked listening to it though. Give me a few days, it will pass.

Dear Elizabeth,

Lovely to hear from you. I think of you too but know you've been busy getting on with things. No need to apologise. How is your arm healing? Is your daughter still helping with it? Is hubby getting along ok?

My pain is easing with the new pain meds. I am sure my mood will pick up. It is odd, I thought having the pain relief would make me feel happy. Perhaps these ADs are flattening my emotions...

I am definitely feeling cared for. You all help just by showing empathy.

It was a nice surprise hearing from you today. You have been a wonderful support to me.

Love Carol xx

Emmy.
Community Member

Carol I'm glad you enjoyed the videos 🙂 hey is your profile pic decorations for your daughters bday party?? Looking good. Xx

Lost_Girl
Community Member

Hi Emmy,

Yes he's sitting on top of the hedge archway 🙂

Thanks Carol for your reply. I posted on my thread with an update of my situation rather than putting it in your thread. I'm glad the pain is easing. It may take time for you mood to lift. Your mind & body have been through so much so it needs time to recover & regain some energy. Look after yourself.

Hi Carol. Just wanted to drop by your thread and say hi, give you a gentle hug if you would like one. I haven't more to add to everyone's response to your well being. I am glad your pain has eased (there must be an echo in here;) ) I just wonder what's making you feel low, if you don't mind my asking? Is it that you have to be juggling meds to feel decent? I'm sorry if my question is too blunt...

You make me smile, just when you drop by, I wanted you to know I'm grateful for that. Thank you for being you

Wednesday
Blue Voices Member
Blue Voices Member

Hi Carol,

I don't know why you feel sad, buy I wish you didn't. I hope it passes quickly. Maybe as well as the youtube videos and a hug fest with your children will help?

Hugs, xx