Headaches.

I take my aching head downstairs. I find water and take long soothing gulps. I take my aching head back upstairs. I take it to the bathroom, lean it against the cool sink and close my eyes.

Thud. Thud. Thud. Thud.

My heart pounds in my ears. I wish it would pipe down a bit. I can't even hear myself think. I switch off the lights, draw curtains, and get in to bed. Somewhere, a phone rings and I'm worried it might split my head in two. The neighbor must be taking a shower. The smell of Lavender seeps through the one wall that divides us. I think I am going to be sick.

I lie still, in semi darkness for a complete day before it goes away.

When it does, I emerge like a person who lost their bearings..stumbling..and spaced out ..and incredibly slow.

Cluster headaches. I think they are called.