Had a good talk to doctor today
He's agreed carbamazepine not for me.

Going to try amitryptilene(sp?!) for pain and to help me sleep.

Also antibiotic in case there is an infection going on in lypmh / glands as my neck and ear have both got some tenderness & swelling. The fact that ibuprofen helps might suggest something swollen or inflamed is causing a problem.

And has ordered an MRI.

Feeling hopeful that the right steps are being taken