Chronic tension headache diagnosis and long term management

[Lost_Girl]

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

[CMF]

Hi Carol,

Well that is great to hear. I'm so glad that you are seeing the light at the end of the tunnel and can start to enjoy life. How are your children? Did you daughter commerce High School?

Hugs

cmf x

[Lost_Girl]

Thanks so much to all of you.

Elizabeth, how are you and hubby travelling? Sorry to hear you have had this too. It is such a simple thing. Unfortunately a lot of the medications I had been on were making it worse, especially the ADs. Onwards and upwards.

Dear Moon, I shall have that as a goal indeed as I love a good bowls tournament and I am sure you are spectacular. You will not be surprised to know that yesterday I booked something in advance which in itself is most brave as I haven't been well enough to plan ahead until now. In late Jan I will be off to see the Wizard of Oz and I have wonderful seats. I am so excited.

Hi Narelle, thanks so much. I will pop on by your thread in the near future.

Hey CMF, My eldest son starts highschool next year but he got a place at the one he wanted so we are all very happy about that. My youngest starts kinder next year too so it will be a big change for them both. My daughter is abundantly full of life and a joy. How are you and the kids? How is everything getting along? Are you doing markets still?

Me xx

[Elizabeth CP]

Thanks Carol My husband is OK at the moment. I am struggling a bit (there are more details in my most recent thread) but hopefully things will improve. The thing with TMD is that anxiety & stress makes it worse as you clench your teeth more in your sleep. It is good the splint worked. I am glad you are feeling well enough to enjoy your family again. You deserve it

[Emmy.]

Hi Carol ... I’m having a really bad day today and reading your post has made me smile. That validation must have been such a weight off for you, always questioning yourself and the pain. You should be so proud of yourself for continually pushing on to seek the help and answers you needed. Big big hugs hun. I’m so happy for you. Emmy xxxxxxx

[Lost_Girl]

Hi Emmy and Elizabeth,

I am sorry to hear you are both not doing so well. I will check in on your threads early next week. I have an unusually busy weekend which I am feeling blessed to be able to participate in.

Yes, so very true Elizabeth. I have had a few nights where I wake a lot during the night clenching on the splint. Luckily the result is not as bad without it. I just need to keep reminding myself to slow down with my recovery.

Big hugs for you both. I hope tomorrow is a better day for you.