Question:

as long as there is crusting, the hole will enlarge.speak to your doctor about using an antibiotic ointment and I recommend you start this soon. Murray Grossan, M.D. http://www.ent-consult.com

Response:

I just saw my GP, who got me into the ENT. Like yours, my perforation was small, I was told that with such an allergic nose the surgery would probably not be successful because of a continuously irritated nose, and result with a dying/dead surgical flap, resulting in a bigger hole. Putting in a button , would mean making the hole bigger right now. My concern was that the allergist took me off all steroid nasal inhalers, and I have polyps and severe ragweed & perfume problems that hit me in the sinuses. With a 40 year history of problems in the ragweed season, I was concerned. So for now, doing nothing for the hole is best.  Having the hole there, risks getting larger with drying edges and constant airflow (inside my nose swells shut and then I wake myself up whistling…. yuck) risks making the hole larger. I will work on making saline sprays a habit, but vasoline makes my problem worse, ie on my mouth, vasiline helps for a few hours, but then my skin sloughs off in sheets of dead skin.  The same thing kinda happens in my nose, short relief, but then the whole nose situation actually gets worse instead of better. But, at least I now know the  problem is not due to a growth or cancer , and they actually incouraged me to take my nasal steroid, but to be careful to try to spray the outer walls or up, but avoid the septum. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Greetings-I can sympathize with your aliment.  I also have a perforated septum. My pulmonologist discovered it.  He said don’t worry about it as is small also about 1-2mm.  He suggested placing vaseline in the nostril to keep the nose moist.  I have had not problems so far and would not even know it was there if it was not for the pulmonologist.  The surgery to repair seems to be very painful and a long recoup time.  Good luck to you in whatever you decide.

Response:

Because of allergies and asthma and vasular motor rhinitis, I have for years  used a nasal steroid spray, which helped a lot. For a long while, one nostral had a nosebleed / scab problem, but it was minor and much less troublesome than the major sinus problem and the nose swelling shut every time I layed down as was happening before this.  I didn’t notice any structure change. but……. About 6-7 weeks ago, I was put on a prednisone taper ( 18 day, starting at 60mg, with 2X  normal dose220 flovent) , and the nose went nuts. The allergist told me to stop the nasacort and just use nasachrom. So I did.  had 2 weeks of rebound sinuses, but now just have the problem of the nose swelling shut when I lay down. The nose stopped bleeding and scabbing, but about 3 weeks later, my nose would whistle a clear tone whistle in the morning, and late at night, and even waking me up in the middle of the night!    An indentation started at the bottom of one nostral, but I couldn’t see a perferation in the septum. Now, with my nose supposedly healed ( ie no more bleeding or scabbing) the indentation in the floor of the nostral ( ~12 mm up) is deeper! And , now there is a sizable ~ 1 mm hole in the septum,  I can see light shine through  the well defined hole on both sides. I’m so allergic to ragweed that my GP suggested I start up the aquous form of Nasacort  in August, but, but that was  several weeks ago and now I’m scared to, though I know I might be miserable with out it. *  Is it a bad sign for the tissue corrosion to continue after stopping the pred and the nasacort? …. ie is something more serious possible? * Is there anything too bad about having a small hole about 10-14 mm up your nose… besides the whistling I have been to the clinic soooooo much this year with asthma, I feel like an employee!  Just went to the Weekend walkin clinic last week with an ankle swollen up like a football  from an allergy to some kind of insect bite. Should I make an appt for something no one can probably do anything about? I kinda know I should, yet I guess I just need a kick in the pants or some reassurance. Trying to avoid the hypochondriac label….. Lou Ann

Response:

Greetings-I can sympathize with your aliment.  I also have a perforated septum. My pulmonologist discovered it.  He said don’t worry about it as is small also about 1-2mm.  He suggested placing vaseline in the nostril to keep the nose moist.  I have had not problems so far and would not even know it was there if it was not for the pulmonologist.  The surgery to repair seems to be very painful and a long recoup time.  Good luck to you in whatever you decide.

Response:

Question:

I am a 23 year old Belgian girl, suffering already 5 years from IBS. The last year has been very bad for me. My biggest problem is the frequent diarrhea ( Imodium, Imodium, Imodium, ..). But also the fear of having an attack is always there.It’s so bad right now that I barely come out of the house anymore. If I really have to go out, I am feeling very, very sick ( diarrhea and nausea ). I had to quit my study, I couldn’t cope with the exams and the stress. I can’t work. Nobody believes that. Even the doctors say there is nothing fysical wrong with me. But I feel so damn sick every second of every day ! I have no friends anymore. That’s not really a surprise. I can’t enjoy myself, I don’t want to eat in public. I even don’t eat at home if I am not alone. For me: eating is being sick. I barely eat anything. Isn’t there a good medication that helps for IBS and especially for nervous diarrhea ?  The doctors say that it doesn’t exist and that I just have to learn to live with it. I take Xanax for the anxiety ( it doesn’t work). I’ve already tried two antidepressants: Cipramil and Paxil, but they made me so ill I had to stop taking it. On bad days I am taking Duspatal, Spasmomen or Dicetel. But neither of them works for me. And of course ther is also my dear friend Imodium. It can’t go on like this. I don’t call this a life anymore, it’s hell. But what more can I try??? P.S.  I’ve also had those terrible medical tests in hospital. Nothing special was found. I have had IBS since age 16 when it wad first diagnosed. Sometimes I find that  the stress of worrying that an attack will come, in and of itself brings it  on! Its a lose-lose situation. Lately I have found that meditation helps me a lot. Also the exercises I  learned years ago in Lamaze class. DEEP breathing through the nose, hold it  for a bit, then exhale through the mouth, helps at least while in the midst of  an attack. BTW here in the USA we have generic brands of Imodium which I stock  up on (since its cheaper and I use so much of it!) Maybe those of us with IBS  need to buy stock in the company <sigh

.

I wish there were more I could tell you to do! Avoiding greasy foods helps too,  since for me, those + stress= IBS! Annette Note: To prevent spam, this address does not accept e-mail. To send me e-mail,  write to me at A76898…@rocketmail.com

Response:

I am a 23 year old Belgian girl, suffering already 5 years from IBS. The last year has been very bad for me. My biggest problem is the frequent diarrhea ( Imodium, Imodium, Imodium, ..). But also the fear of having an attack is always there.It’s so bad right now that I barely come out of the house anymore. If I really have to go out, I am feeling very, very sick ( diarrhea and nausea ). I had to quit my study, I couldn’t cope with the exams and the stress. I can’t work. Nobody believes that. Even the doctors say there is nothing fysical wrong with me. But I feel so damn sick every second of every day ! I have no friends anymore. That’s not really a surprise. I can’t enjoy myself, I don’t want to eat in public. I even don’t eat at home if I am not alone. For me: eating is being sick. I barely eat anything. Isn’t there a good medication that helps for IBS and especially for nervous diarrhea ?  The doctors say that it doesn’t exist and that I just have to learn to live with it. I take Xanax for the anxiety ( it doesn’t work). I’ve already tried two antidepressants: Cipramil and Paxil, but they made me so ill I had to stop taking it. On bad days I am taking Duspatal, Spasmomen or Dicetel. But neither of them works for me. And of course ther is also my dear friend Imodium. It can’t go on like this. I don’t call this a life anymore, it’s hell. But what more can I try??? P.S.  I’ve also had those terrible medical tests in hospital. Nothing special was found.

Response:

Your story is very much like mine!!…Please read "My Story" on my web site. On 28 Sep 1997 20:35:52 GMT, "kathia" <buyens.kat…@medisoft.be

wrote:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

I am a 23 year old Belgian girl, suffering already 5 years from IBS. The last year has been very bad for me. My biggest problem is the frequent diarrhea ( Imodium, Imodium, Imodium, ..). But also the fear of having an attack is always there.It’s so bad right now that I barely come out of the house anymore. If I really have to go out, I am feeling very, very sick ( diarrhea and nausea ). I had to quit my study, I couldn’t cope with the exams and the stress. I can’t work. Nobody believes that. Even the doctors say there is nothing fysical wrong with me. But I feel so damn sick every second of every day ! I have no friends anymore. That’s not really a surprise. I can’t enjoy myself, I don’t want to eat in public. I even don’t eat at home if I am not alone. For me: eating is being sick. I barely eat anything. Isn’t there a good medication that helps for IBS and especially for nervous diarrhea ?  The doctors say that it doesn’t exist and that I just have to learn to live with it. I take Xanax for the anxiety ( it doesn’t work). I’ve already tried two antidepressants: Cipramil and Paxil, but they made me so ill I had to stop taking it. On bad days I am taking Duspatal, Spasmomen or Dicetel. But neither of them works for me. And of course ther is also my dear friend Imodium. It can’t go on like this. I don’t call this a life anymore, it’s hell. But what more can I try??? P.S.  I’ve also had those terrible medical tests in hospital. Nothing special was found.

Steven S. Palmer <sput…@gte.net

http://home1.gte.net/sputers/index.html http://www.geocities.com/HotSprings/Spa/4001/ ——————————————- Key ID 0×69D430FB Key fingerprint = A706 43EC 13B6 D8E4 9F19  F2D4 63A8 E71D 69D4 30FB Public Key located in the Public Key Directory at:               <http://www.pgp.com/

or e-mail with Public Key as the subject line – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - "I’m sick and tired of having to rearrange my life     because of what the STUPIDEST people *might* do or     how they *might* react."        – Bill Maher

Response:

On 28 Sep 1997 20:35:52 GMT, "kathia" <buyens.kat…@medisoft.be

wrote: I had to quit my study, I couldn’t cope with the exams and the stress.

You will see below that stress is the third most common diagnosis before a celiac diagnosis. I suggest a strict trial gluten-free diet. Top 20 Diagnoses Before a Diagnosis of Celiac Disease 1.  Anemia 2.  IBS 3.  Psychological stress, nerves, imagination 4.  Diarrhea 5.  IBD 6.  Diabetes 7.  Spastic Colon 8.  Ulcers 9.  Virus (Viral Gastroenteritis) 10. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome 11. Weight-loss 12. Allergies 13. Amoeba, Parasites, Infection 14. Gallbladder Disease 15. Thyroid Disease 16. Cancer, Lymphoma, Digestive 17. Colitis 18. Cystic Fibrosis 19. Lactose Intolerance 20. Reflux Data from an on-going Celiac Disease Foundation study of 600 Biopsy-proven celiacs. Taken from the Fall 1996 CDF Newsletter. CDF can be reached at:  Celiac Disease Foundation  13251 Ventura Blvd. Suite 1  Studio City, CA  91604-1838  818-990-2354. Newsletter subscriptions are sent to members, and membership is a $35 tax-deductible contribution per year. For more information on gluten intolerance see this page of annotated links:   The Gluten-Free Page:  http://www.panix.com/~donwiss/ Don.

Response:

Question:

        I saw the first therapist again, because the first session was mostly a case history; this year’s been really incredible.  She said I pretty much had GAD and some depression, which is what I thought.  We had a CBT session on my topmost issue, which is giving up our place in town and having to move to my wife’s place out in the country.  She showed me I was catastrophizing there and had me look at alternatives.           I did see that CBT is no deep dark mystery; it’s what I used to call "brainstorming":  toss out alternatives with someone else and try a few.           I think I could work with her.  I’ll admit, I couldn’t have heard from someone at the public clinic about the moving issue, since I was afraid they wouldn’t be sympathetic; many of their clients are one step from being out on the street!  So now I feel better about the public clinic.  I also know that I have an alternative.  Since I’m getting my meds   (Effexor XR, 150 mg; Depakote 1000 mg) at the clinic, it would be better to have them coordinate.  I’ll give it all more thought.   Dennis — The charter is available at:  http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

Hi, Dennis, Sounds like the therapy appointment went well.  Please keep us updated on how it is going… smiles, Elise

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –     I saw the first therapist again, because the first session was mostly a case history; this year’s been really incredible.  She said I pretty much had GAD and some depression, which is what I thought.  We had a CBT session on my topmost issue, which is giving up our place in town and having to move to my wife’s place out in the country.  She showed me I was catastrophizing there and had me look at alternatives.     I did see that CBT is no deep dark mystery; it’s what I used to call "brainstorming":  toss out alternatives with someone else and try a few.     I think I could work with her.  I’ll admit, I couldn’t have heard from someone at the public clinic about the moving issue, since I was afraid they wouldn’t be sympathetic; many of their clients are one step from being out on the street!  So now I feel better about the public clinic.  I also know that I have an alternative.  Since I’m getting my meds (Effexor XR, 150 mg; Depakote 1000 mg) at the clinic, it would be better to have them coordinate.  I’ll give it all more thought. Dennis — The charter is available at:  http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

– The charter is available at:  http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

Question:

Effexor Withdrawal Causing Crackling Sounds in the Brain Antidepressants  "Thank God for this website." I had a nervous breakdown six years ago and after being on other

anti-depressants without a problem, my psychiatrist felt that Effexor had less of an effect on the heart, and so switched me to Effexor. I have tried unsuccessfully to quit on many

occasions, even though I only take 37.5 mgs per day. The extreme lethargy I feel when I have tried to quit, the tingling in various parts of my body, the weird dreams and most

troublesome of all, the crackling, electric sounds in my head have caused me too much distress to ever be successful.

Hi, I think that you have to think about all these  side effect problems. Maybe they are not side-effect, maybe they are only telling you that you are stressed, and you need to fix your problems, otherwise the side-problems will be forever with you B

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Effexor Withdrawal Causing Crackling Sounds in the Brain Antidepressants  "Thank God for this website." I had a nervous breakdown six years ago and after being on other  anti-depressants without a problem, my psychiatrist felt that Effexor had less of an effect on the  heart, and so switched me to Effexor. I have tried unsuccessfully to quit on many  occasions, even though I only take 37.5 mgs per day. The extreme lethargy I feel when I have  tried to quit, the tingling in various parts of my body, the weird dreams and most  troublesome of all, the crackling, electric sounds in my head have caused me too much distress to  ever be successful. Hi, I think that you have to think about all these  side effect problems. Maybe they are not side-effect, maybe they are only telling you that you are stressed, and you need to fix your problems, otherwise the side-problems will be forever with you B

I thought cross-posting to and from different kind of newsgroups was not the reason why they started alt.support.schizofrenia. Btw, is it not forbidden in the FAQ ? Berty

Response:

Effexor Withdrawal Causing Crackling Sounds in the Brain Antidepressants  "Thank God for this website." I had a nervous breakdown six years ago and after being on other

anti-depressants without a problem, my psychiatrist felt that Effexor had less of an effect on the heart, and so switched me to Effexor. I have tried unsuccessfully to quit on many

occasions, even though I only take 37.5 mgs per day. The extreme lethargy I feel when I have tried to quit, the tingling in various parts of my body, the weird dreams and most

troublesome of all, the crackling, electric sounds in my head have caused me too much distress to ever be successful.

Hi, I think that you have to think about all these  side effect problems. Maybe they are not side-effect, maybe they are only telling you that you are stressed, and you need to fix your problems, otherwise the side-problems will be forever with you B

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Effexor Withdrawal Causing Crackling Sounds in the Brain Antidepressants  "Thank God for this website." I had a nervous breakdown six years ago and after being on other  anti-depressants without a problem, my psychiatrist felt that Effexor had less of an effect on the  heart, and so switched me to Effexor. I have tried unsuccessfully to quit on many  occasions, even though I only take 37.5 mgs per day. The extreme lethargy I feel when I have  tried to quit, the tingling in various parts of my body, the weird dreams and most  troublesome of all, the crackling, electric sounds in my head have caused me too much distress to  ever be successful. Hi, I think that you have to think about all these  side effect problems. Maybe they are not side-effect, maybe they are only telling you that you are stressed, and you need to fix your problems, otherwise the side-problems will be forever with you B

I thought cross-posting to and from different kind of newsgroups was not the reason why they started alt.support.schizofrenia. Btw, is it not forbidden in the FAQ ? Berty

Response:

Question:

Hi, I’ve been on 50mg of Zoloft for 8 weeks which has worked great overall.  My only complaint is a lot of muscle tension.  It’s faded somewhat over these first 2 months, but is it likely to subside even more or am I probably stuck with it? Thanks! Fritz

Response:

Wow, I didn’t get the muscle tension.  I got an upset tummy and the runs for a few weeks and then that went away.  The only lingering side effect I have is lack of sex drive.  Hate it. Hope your tension goes away.  Good luck,  Amanda – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, I’ve been on 50mg of Zoloft for 8 weeks which has worked great overall.  My only complaint is a lot of muscle tension.  It’s faded somewhat over these first 2 months, but is it likely to subside even more or am I probably stuck with it? Thanks! Fritz

Response:

For me zoloft killed my libido seemingly forever…I no longer have ‘the fire’ and i do miss it!! – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Wow, I didn’t get the muscle tension.  I got an upset tummy and the runs for a few weeks and then that went away.  The only lingering side effect I have is lack of sex drive.  Hate it. Hope your tension goes away.  Good luck,  Amanda Hi, I’ve been on 50mg of Zoloft for 8 weeks which has worked great overall.  My only complaint is a lot of muscle tension.  It’s faded somewhat over these first 2 months, but is it likely to subside even more or am I probably stuck with it? Thanks! Fritz

Response:

Wow. I’m glad it wasn’t just me. My doctor warned me about it, but I figured that it was more important to get through every day with a clear head than get a little action once a month. That’s my only side effect, but it’s a doozy! ~Paul For me zoloft killed my libido seemingly forever…I no longer have ‘the fire’ and i do miss it!!

The only lingering side effect – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have is lack of sex drive.  Hate it.

Response:

Question:

Anon wrote…… Hi all, My doctor prescribed my Zoloft for anxiety and I’ve been taking 50mg for two days now. I’m finding the immediate side effects worse than the original anxiety. The side effects include, tremor, sweating, upset stomach/nausea, loss of appetite, hyper-sensitivety (esp. in my feet). I’m OK with "no pain no gain" – the immediate side effects are a necessary evil – as long as they are temporary. Has anyone else had the same reaction to Zoloft or other SSRI (i.e. prozac)? How long do these symptoms last.

Dear Anon, People with anxiety disorders need to start anti-depressants at a low dose and to wean slowly, otherwise the side-effects can be very uncomfortable. You started Zoloft at too high a dose, and that is probably the reason you feel so bad. Most people start Zoloft at 12.5 or 25 mgs, they stay at that dose for one week then increase in either of those increments every week or so. If I were you, I would call your doctor and tell him you a reducing your dose due to side-effects. It is also a common practice to use a benzo while weaning on an anti-depressant, you might want to ask your doctor about that. I`ve seen to many people ditch potentially effective meds because their doctor started them at a high dose and weaned them too quickly. Take care and good luck with Zoloft Jackie ~*~The Earth Laughs in Flowers…….

Response:

My doctor prescribed my Zoloft for anxiety and I’ve been taking 50mg for two days now. I’m finding the immediate side effects worse than the original anxiety. The side effects include, tremor, sweating, upset stomach/nausea, loss of appetite, hyper-sensitivety (esp. in my feet). I’m OK with "no pain no gain" – the immediate side effects are a necessary evil – as long as they are temporary. Has anyone else had the same reaction to Zoloft or other SSRI (i.e. prozac)? How long do these symptoms last. Thanks for your support.

Hi Anon, I just started on Zoloft about a month ago.  My doc started me on 50 mgs which everyone thought was too high but he also prescribed .25 mgs of Xanax 3x/day. I had no problems even after he kicked the Zoloft up to 100 mgs.  Maybe I was just lucky but I think the Xanax helped a bunch.  IMHO. Ambulance Boy I’m not an ambulance chaser.  I’m usually there before the ambulance.

Response:

I hope that I can help.  I found that once most of the major side effects were going I was stuck with a headache for 6 days running.  Not an overly bad one but more of an annoying one.  I took tylenol for it and it helped. It stopped about two days ago.  Now I am finding that my sleeping habits are changing.  Before I could barely keep my eyes open after 9pm but last night I wasn’t even very tired at midnight so I took a half an ativan and still laid there till 2:30 in the morning.  I actually came down and took another half otherwise I might not have slept all night. I take the Zoloft in the morning.  How about you?  Also I hear lots of people talking about weight gain.  The doctor told me that I would probably loose weight on Zoloft so for me it was a big Yippee!  As I am very overweight.  I lost 5 pounds the first week. But my appetite is returning. But I think that now I am feeling a bit better I am cooking nicer meals for my family as the poor souls were eating way to much take out as I wasn’t up to cooking before. But watch out for the headache and remember that is just another symptom of the Zoloft. Nancy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Nancy, Thanks for your reassuring words. The side effects are terrible but I’ll keep fighting on. Glad to hear that you are feeling better. Let’s keep in touch Cheers, P I have been on Zoloft for three weeks.  Don’t worry the side effects do ease off.  I started it around 5 weeks ago and went off it because I felt way worse.  I ended up back at the doctors and he told me to get back on it and to stay on it.  I’m glad I did.  Because after the second week I started feeling better.  The side effects eased off. So hang in there and give it at least 6 weeks.  I’ll keep you posted of my progress as I am just a couple of weeks ahead of you. Nancy Hi all, My doctor prescribed my Zoloft for anxiety and I’ve been taking 50mg for two days now. I’m finding the immediate side effects worse than the original anxiety. The side effects include, tremor, sweating, upset stomach/nausea, loss of appetite, hyper-sensitivety (esp. in my feet). I’m OK with "no pain no gain" – the immediate side effects are a necessary evil – as long as they are temporary. Has anyone else had the same reaction to Zoloft or other SSRI (i.e. prozac)? How long do these symptoms last. Thanks for your support.

Response:

Hi All, Thanks for your replies. It so reassuring to know that there are people out there who will take the time to reply to absolute strangers – it kinda restores my faith in humanity. The side effects are lessening and I’m functioning at about 50%. Thanks to your advice I’ll hang in. Bless you all, P – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all, My doctor prescribed my Zoloft for anxiety and I’ve been taking 50mg for two days now. I’m finding the immediate side effects worse than the original anxiety. The side effects include, tremor, sweating, upset stomach/nausea, loss of appetite, hyper-sensitivety (esp. in my feet). I’m OK with "no pain no gain" – the immediate side effects are a necessary evil – as long as they are temporary. Has anyone else had the same reaction to Zoloft or other SSRI (i.e. prozac)? How long do these symptoms last. Thanks for your support.

Response:

I started at 25 mg and worked up to 50 mg.  If I had it to do again, I would have started at 12.5 mg, and worked up from that.  It makes the side effects much easier to bear. Take care, Liz – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all, My doctor prescribed my Zoloft for anxiety and I’ve been taking 50mg for two days now. I’m finding the immediate side effects worse than the original anxiety. The side effects include, tremor, sweating, upset stomach/nausea, loss of appetite, hyper-sensitivety (esp. in my feet). I’m OK with "no pain no gain" – the immediate side effects are a necessary evil – as long as they are temporary. Has anyone else had the same reaction to Zoloft or other SSRI (i.e. prozac)? How long do these symptoms last. Thanks for your support.

– Problems are only opportunities in work clothes.                            –Henry Kaiser

Response:

Hi all, My doctor prescribed my Zoloft for anxiety and I’ve been taking 50mg for two days now. I’m finding the immediate side effects worse than the original anxiety.

I started at 50mg as well, had awful symptoms and had to have 3 days off work, include the weekend five. Its been 6 weeks now. I stuck with it and felt the effects lessen significantly after the first 8-10. Was back to my normal level of anxiety after maybe two weeks and felt an improvment since. I would suggest if you can handle the side effects do so knowing that it will be worth it most likely. If its to uncomfortable go back the docs Steve

Response:

Hi Nancy, Thanks for your reassuring words. The side effects are terrible but I’ll keep fighting on. Glad to hear that you are feeling better. Let’s keep in touch Cheers, P

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have been on Zoloft for three weeks.  Don’t worry the side effects do ease off.  I started it around 5 weeks ago and went off it because I felt way worse.  I ended up back at the doctors and he told me to get back on it and to stay on it.  I’m glad I did.  Because after the second week I started feeling better.  The side effects eased off. So hang in there and give it at least 6 weeks.  I’ll keep you posted of my progress as I am just a couple of weeks ahead of you. Nancy Hi all, My doctor prescribed my Zoloft for anxiety and I’ve been taking 50mg for two days now. I’m finding the immediate side effects worse than the original anxiety. The side effects include, tremor, sweating, upset stomach/nausea, loss of appetite, hyper-sensitivety (esp. in my feet). I’m OK with "no pain no gain" – the immediate side effects are a necessary evil – as long as they are temporary. Has anyone else had the same reaction to Zoloft or other SSRI (i.e. prozac)? How long do these symptoms last. Thanks for your support.

Response:

I stopped taking Zoloft on Tuesday- I could not handle it. I had horrible electrical flashes and sweating and my mouth was numb.I went to the hospital for the side effects. Try something else

Response:

I have been on Zoloft for three weeks.  Don’t worry the side effects do ease off.  I started it around 5 weeks ago and went off it because I felt way worse.  I ended up back at the doctors and he told me to get back on it and to stay on it.  I’m glad I did.  Because after the second week I started feeling better.  The side effects eased off. So hang in there and give it at least 6 weeks.  I’ll keep you posted of my progress as I am just a couple of weeks ahead of you. Nancy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all, My doctor prescribed my Zoloft for anxiety and I’ve been taking 50mg for two days now. I’m finding the immediate side effects worse than the original anxiety. The side effects include, tremor, sweating, upset stomach/nausea, loss of appetite, hyper-sensitivety (esp. in my feet). I’m OK with "no pain no gain" – the immediate side effects are a necessary evil – as long as they are temporary. Has anyone else had the same reaction to Zoloft or other SSRI (i.e. prozac)? How long do these symptoms last. Thanks for your support.

Response:

When I went back the second time he gave me ativan 1 mg.  I started to take that and it has helped me to deal with the side effects of the Zoloft.  You may want to talk to your doctor about it.  It really does help. Nancy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all, My doctor prescribed my Zoloft for anxiety and I’ve been taking 50mg for two days now. I’m finding the immediate side effects worse than the original anxiety. The side effects include, tremor, sweating, upset stomach/nausea, loss of appetite, hyper-sensitivety (esp. in my feet). I’m OK with "no pain no gain" – the immediate side effects are a necessary evil – as long as they are temporary. Has anyone else had the same reaction to Zoloft or other SSRI (i.e. prozac)? How long do these symptoms last. Thanks for your support.

Response:

Hi all, My doctor prescribed my Zoloft for anxiety and I’ve been taking 50mg for two days now. I’m finding the immediate side effects worse than the original anxiety. The side effects include, tremor, sweating, upset stomach/nausea, loss of appetite, hyper-sensitivety (esp. in my feet). I’m OK with "no pain no gain" – the immediate side effects are a necessary evil – as long as they are temporary. Has anyone else had the same reaction to Zoloft or other SSRI (i.e. prozac)? How long do these symptoms last.

Sigh….another great doctor…. You were started on (much) too high a dose of Zoloft. While this is not dangerous at all it makes for a lot of terrible side effects and a worsening of symptoms. All antidepressants will do that to you in the beginning which is why we anxiety sufferers should start at a low dose (in the case of Zoloft: 12.5 mg) and raise that slowly (in weekly increments of 12.5 mg for instance) until therapeutic dosage is reached. It wouldn

Question:

The, North, &, South, Bipolar, Connection…Meet, me, in, the, middle! You can still get the medical care you need without insurance, and you don’t have to settle for care that doesn’t meet your needs, but you will have to work harder to find it and see that you get it.

God, I hope you’re right. You can use this period while you still have insurance to start making solid plans.

I’m trying. I’ve never been very good at follow-through though :/ The worry is a motivator, but once you start to see how you <will survive it becomes lessor. I know what it is like to have too many questions and not enough answers.

Don’t we all. :/ Thanks for the support.

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I’m sorry I was so hard on you. I did not realize how much you have & are suffering or how frightened you are.

It’s ok, I understand those knee-jerk reactions; do it all the time myself ; I was insensitive myself in my response. Maybe you pushed one of my buttons. You see I have two children, both of whom are now adult & both of whom are healthy.

I’m glad your kids are healthy. I’m not going to have any myself, not only because I don’t want to take the chance of passing this on, but also because I don’t think I could take care of them. I can barely take care of myself. Heck, most of the time I go hungry because shopping is such a horrible experience. If you could get to a major teaching hospital in your area and see someone in the "Mood Disorders Clinic" (Department of Psychiatry), I am confident you would be able to find relief for most of your symptoms.

This is a very small city, there’s only one hospital. I’d have to go to CMH. It is possible that a period of hospitalization would be advisable to allow the pdocs & staff to more quickly find the right combination of meds for *you*.

Um. No. Not only does the mere thought of the hospital scare the crap outa me, but they allow smoking in there (at least in the other place I was in they did) and I am extremely hypersensitive to second hand smoke. Being trapped in there and having to breathe that shit and choking is my worst nightmare. It happened to me the last time and the doctors didn’t care. The other staff didn’t care either. They could have at least kept the exhaust fans on, but the other patients complained that the little bit of wind they generated made them cold. It didn’t even matter that I was choking. From your description of your recent symptoms of tactile and auditory hallucinations, perhaps one of the new "atypical" APs, like Zyprexa, would help. It is also quite useful in combating dysphoric mania, in my experience, which is something you might just be experiencing. Ask your pdoc about it in the context of a comprehensive plan…

I don’t actually have a psychiatrist; just a general practice doctor. I’ve been scared to go to any psychiatrists for at least a decade now … except the interview I just had which was something I had to do, but would rather not discuss. His purpose was just to interview me, he’s not going to be a doctor I will be seeing regularly or who will be prescribing me any medicines. Like I said, I’d have to go to CMH. I might have too much fear to do that, I dunno yet. As for trying other drugs, at this point I’m willing to try just about anything to get this pain out of me.

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I have to agree with Thumper as to the Wellbutrin or any AD. If you are truly bipolar, you pretty well must take a mood stabilizer and this is especially true if you are taking an AD.

I honestly didn’t know this until a couple days ago. I always thought it was the drug causing the problem, but there’s no doubt that I have had very clear-cut episodes of mania that were not drug induced. Those were more in the past, though. The problem the last few years seems to be an ongoing mixed episode that crashes into all out depression every few months. I’m not even experiencing any periods of relative stability; except during the time I was taking dexedrine, but there were (eventually) problems associated with that too. I dunno if there is a drug or combo of drugs out there that will help. Let’s face it, some people just can’t be helped, I’m really starting to believe that I am one of those people. :<

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permanently in the ether: – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I feel that, overall, I am doing worse now than in the past. I have: 1. Constant headaches. 2. Constant fatigue. 3. Difficulty concentrating. 4. NO energy. 5. Constant feelings that suicide is only solution (but unable to take that way out because of effect on family). 6. Joint pain in major joints (hips and shoulders). 7. Stomach pain. 8. Cholesterol and Liver Enzyme levels are high. 9. Skin itches all the time (although I have no rash). 10. I have pains in my left chest. 11. Low thyroid and testosterone hormones. 12. I stop breathing at night unless I use a CPAP machine. 13. If I don

Question:

Twice a day won’t work with Neurontin unless you are worried about seizures. It wears off! If you can’t do at least 3x a day I am afraid you may be wasting your money. On 4x a day maybe you could take less. I don’t think Wellbutrin is the AD for you. I suggest something in the Celexa line, or if you could use help getting to sleep, Remeron. Just have your pharmacist give me a call. Keith – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Do you think going higher in dosage would help?  James suggests taking it every 6 hours would help.  I have a hard enough time remembering it twice a day.  At work it is chaos at times and remembering to take the medication would be very difficult.  So far I see no adverse reactions.  I can go higher.  It is costing me 300 a month but I would pay 500 or even 1000 dollars a month if I could enjoy life on a daily basis.  It took away my high highs… now I am left with really some bad bad lows.  But I do cycle out for a few short hours… but mornings are hell.  I take the meds at noon and in the evening.  That isn’t spaced out right though.  Should take the evening dose later but the morning dose wears off.  I don’t know if raising the wellbutrin would help.  Maybe I need to ask for Lamictal.  So tired of this.  Life was so much easier years ago.

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Do you think going higher in dosage would help?  James suggests taking it every 6 hours would help.  I have a hard enough time remembering it twice a day.  At work it is chaos at times and remembering to take the medication would be very difficult.  So far I see no adverse reactions.  I can go higher.  It is costing me 300 a month but I would pay 500 or even 1000 dollars a month if I could enjoy life on a daily basis.  It took away my high highs… now I am left with really some bad bad lows.  But I do cycle out for a few short hours… but mornings are hell.  I take the meds at noon and in the evening.  That isn’t spaced out right though.  Should take the evening dose later but the morning dose wears off.  I don’t know if raising the wellbutrin would help.  Maybe I need to ask for Lamictal.  So tired of this.  Life was so much easier years ago. —   O  ooo   Cindy          O – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am on 2400mg and still cycle….I just have lower lows and lower highs. I don’t feel clearer in thinking…but compared to lithium..whew!  This is MUCH better.  Just wish it would help more with the depressions. There appears to be no known therapeutic blood serum level for gabapentin used in bipolar. Each person will need a different amount. You could go as high as your doctor would allow, but money would be a limiting factor.

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I am on 2400mg and still cycle….I just have lower lows and lower highs.  I don’t feel clearer in thinking…but compared to lithium..whew!  This is MUCH better.  Just wish it would help more with the depressions.

There appears to be no known therapeutic blood serum level for gabapentin used in bipolar. Each person will need a different amount. You could go as high as your doctor would allow, but money would be a limiting factor.

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – 4800mg is considered high, and the therapeutic range seems to span all dosages, at least for bipolar. Greetings everybody, I have rapid cyclings with sometimes mixed states. I never had any manic episode. I never took any mood stabilizer in my life. I’ve been taking antidepressants and anxiolytics for 10 years now with moderate results. And i lost so many jobs… So Neurontin is my first mood stabilizer. I’ve been taking Neurontin (100 mg x 4 per day) for 2 weeks now. I also take Effexor XR 150 mg per day. My mood is better. I’m not anymore angry and the anxiety is almost gone. My concentration is improved too. It’s great. I’m starting again to live after a long nightmare. However, i still have sometimes cyclings even if they are more rare and lower in intensity. What is the therapeutic range of Neurontin? I want to feel fine but to be honest i’m afraid to be *zombified* by a too much high dose of Neurontin. Suggestions? Thanks in advance. Eric

Eric when I was on this drug, which was way back when it first came out on the market.  I was one of the test people for the drug.  I took 3600mgs. So higher doseages can be tolerated for this drug.  I was on it at least 3 different times for different reasons.  I was taken off 2 times and put back on it 2 other times to make it a total of 3 times.  The other mood stabilizer I was on it with I think was either Depakote or Lithium.  I am almost quite sure it was Depakote.   Betsy

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I am on 2400mg and still cycle….I just have lower lows and lower highs.  I don’t feel clearer in thinking…but compared to lithium..whew!  This is MUCH better.  Just wish it would help more with the depressions. —   O  ooo   Cindy          O – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Neurontin has been extremely helpful to me as an anti-depressant, mood stabilizer for me recently. I am a manic depressive. I’m nearly certain that the therapeutic range is about 400 to 2500 mgs. I am taking 2000mgs or just simply 2gs. By the way, I don’t feel "zombefied". On the contrary I feel very alert and relatively up. Good luck Ephriam Greetings everybody, I have rapid cyclings with sometimes mixed states. I never had any manic episode. I never took any mood stabilizer in my life. I’ve been taking antidepressants and anxiolytics for 10 years now with moderate results. And i lost so many jobs… So Neurontin is my first mood stabilizer. I’ve been taking Neurontin (100 mg x 4 per day) for 2 weeks now. I also take Effexor XR 150 mg per day. My mood is better. I’m not anymore angry and the anxiety is almost gone. My concentration is improved too. It’s great. I’m starting again to live after a long nightmare. However, i still have sometimes cyclings even if they are more rare and lower in intensity. What is the therapeutic range of Neurontin? I want to feel fine but to be honest i’m afraid to be *zombified* by a too much high dose of Neurontin. Suggestions? Thanks in advance. Eric

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Which mood stabizer did you use along with neurontin? —   O  ooo   Cindy          O – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Greetings everybody, I have rapid cyclings with sometimes mixed states. I never had any manic episode. I never took any mood stabilizer in my life. I’ve been taking antidepressants and anxiolytics for 10 years now with moderate results. And i lost so many jobs… So Neurontin is my first mood stabilizer. I’ve been taking Neurontin (100 mg x 4 per day) for 2 weeks now. I also take Effexor XR 150 mg per day. My mood is better. I’m not anymore angry and the anxiety is almost gone. My concentration is improved too. It’s great. I’m starting again to live after a long nightmare. However, i still have sometimes cyclings even if they are more rare and lower in intensity. What is the therapeutic range of Neurontin? I want to feel fine but to be honest i’m afraid to be *zombified* by a too much high dose of Neurontin. Suggestions? You can use more than one mood stabilizer. Neurontin should be taken every six hours.  A good therapeutic dose for me was 300 mgs 4 x per day until I added another mood stabilizer.  Once I had polytherapy I was able to lower my dose of Neurontin to 600 to 900 mgs per day. Good luck to you. Julie Thanks in advance. Eric

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Do i still have to take Neurontin 4 times a day if i increase the dosage from 400 to 600 or even 800 mg? What are the side effects of Neurontin at this dosage? Thanks.

Eric: The Neurontin is excreted every six hours.  Eight if you have a slow renal excretion rate. The six hours apart is crucial if it is your only mood stabilizer.  Even if you have increased the dosage. I learned that the hard way and ended up ultra rapidly cycling till I joined the ranks of the James Milton Philosophy It had it’s drawbacks, like setting my alarm for three am just to take a pill.  I did get used to it and it was effective.  I also got tired of it and now take 2 mood stabilizers and only take Neurontin 2x per day. Good Luck! Julie – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Eric

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4800mg is considered high, and the therapeutic range seems to span all dosages, at least for bipolar. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Greetings everybody, I have rapid cyclings with sometimes mixed states. I never had any manic episode. I never took any mood stabilizer in my life. I’ve been taking antidepressants and anxiolytics for 10 years now with moderate results. And i lost so many jobs… So Neurontin is my first mood stabilizer. I’ve been taking Neurontin (100 mg x 4 per day) for 2 weeks now. I also take Effexor XR 150 mg per day. My mood is better. I’m not anymore angry and the anxiety is almost gone. My concentration is improved too. It’s great. I’m starting again to live after a long nightmare. However, i still have sometimes cyclings even if they are more rare and lower in intensity. What is the therapeutic range of Neurontin? I want to feel fine but to be honest i’m afraid to be *zombified* by a too much high dose of Neurontin. Suggestions? Thanks in advance. Eric

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Greetings everybody, I have rapid cyclings with sometimes mixed states. I never had any manic episode. I never took any mood stabilizer in my life. I’ve been taking antidepressants and anxiolytics for 10 years now with moderate results. And i lost so many jobs… So Neurontin is my first mood stabilizer. I’ve been taking Neurontin (100 mg x 4 per day) for 2 weeks now. I also take Effexor XR 150 mg per day. My mood is better. I’m not anymore angry and the anxiety is almost gone. My concentration is improved too. It’s great. I’m starting again to live after a long nightmare. However, i still have sometimes cyclings even if they are more rare and lower in intensity. What is the therapeutic range of Neurontin? I want to feel fine but to be honest i’m afraid to be *zombified* by a too much high dose of Neurontin. Suggestions?

You can use more than one mood stabilizer. Neurontin should be taken every six hours.  A good therapeutic dose for me was 300 mgs 4 x per day until I added another mood stabilizer.  Once I had polytherapy I was able to lower my dose of Neurontin to 600 to 900 mgs per day. Good luck to you. Julie – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Thanks in advance. Eric

Response:

Neurontin has been extremely helpful to me as an anti-depressant, mood stabilizer for me recently. I am a manic depressive. I’m nearly certain that the therapeutic range is about 400 to 2500 mgs. I am taking 2000mgs or just simply 2gs. By the way, I don’t feel "zombefied". On the contrary I feel very alert and relatively up. Good luck Ephriam

Do i still have to take Neurontin 4 times a day if i increase the dosage from 400 to 600 or even 800 mg? What are the side effects of Neurontin at this dosage? Thanks. Eric

Response:

Greetings everybody, I have rapid cyclings with sometimes mixed states. I never had any manic episode. I never took any mood stabilizer in my life. I’ve been taking antidepressants and anxiolytics for 10 years now with moderate results. And i lost so many jobs… So Neurontin is my first mood stabilizer. I’ve been taking Neurontin (100 mg x 4 per day) for 2 weeks now. I also take Effexor XR 150 mg per day. My mood is better. I’m not anymore angry and the anxiety is almost gone. My concentration is improved too. It’s great. I’m starting again to live after a long nightmare. However, i still have sometimes cyclings even if they are more rare and lower in intensity. What is the therapeutic range of Neurontin? I want to feel fine but to be honest i’m afraid to be *zombified* by a too much high dose of Neurontin. Suggestions? Thanks in advance. Eric

Response:

Neurontin has been extremely helpful to me as an anti-depressant, mood stabilizer for me recently. I am a manic depressive. I’m nearly certain that the therapeutic range is about 400 to 2500 mgs. I am taking 2000mgs or just simply 2gs. By the way, I don’t feel "zombefied". On the contrary I feel very alert and relatively up. Good luck Ephriam – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Greetings everybody, I have rapid cyclings with sometimes mixed states. I never had any manic episode. I never took any mood stabilizer in my life. I’ve been taking antidepressants and anxiolytics for 10 years now with moderate results. And i lost so many jobs… So Neurontin is my first mood stabilizer. I’ve been taking Neurontin (100 mg x 4 per day) for 2 weeks now. I also take Effexor XR 150 mg per day. My mood is better. I’m not anymore angry and the anxiety is almost gone. My concentration is improved too. It’s great. I’m starting again to live after a long nightmare. However, i still have sometimes cyclings even if they are more rare and lower in intensity. What is the therapeutic range of Neurontin? I want to feel fine but to be honest i’m afraid to be *zombified* by a too much high dose of Neurontin. Suggestions? Thanks in advance. Eric

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Question:

It’s my understanding that Kip had secretly stopped taking his meds, as had Eric Harris. I’d like to know why his (Eric’s) psychiatrist doesn’t speak up.

To his credit, that doctor is honoring his obligation to his patient. Doctors need the patient’s permission to disclose confidential medical records. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Kate Coe  drug, which is classified by the U.S. government in the same category as  cocaine and heroin. Oopsie!  Another little error: cocaine and heroin are not in the same "category."  Sounds scary, though, doesn’t it?       Nod.  Specifically, Ritalin is Schedule II, believed to be at a high risk of diversion, but having medical necessity.  Codeine is also schedule II.  Heroin, marijuana, PCP, etc. are schedule I, no legitimate medical use recognized by the Feds, but research use is allowable.  Clarke claims that children who take Ritalin in elementary school are  often switched to Prozac and other drugs as they grow older. The effects  of Ritalin can cause problems long after the prescription is stopped, he  added.       This is a particularly good example of lying, BTW.  It’s true that some people who take Ritalin have latent Tourette’s syndrome uncovered.  They may have problems with tics for a long time. However, Ritalin is not causing the tics; Tourette’s is.       He gets to make a statement that is subtlely untrue, while being able to point to someone who had a long term problem with Tourette’s as "proof".  "When they go through puberty, this becomes true speed," explained  Clarke.        BTW: the idea of a "paradoxical effect" of stimulants has been debunked for a long time. As for "speed", have you ever let your child have some Pepsi?  Caffeine is as much "speed" as Ritalin is.  "They are switching lots of these kids from Ritalin to Prozac — the  frying pan into the fire routine," she told WorldNetDaily. "Kip Kinkel  in the Oregon shooting last summer was a perfect example of the effects.  The chances the boy in Arkansas was on it are great." Interesting statement, isn’t it?  "The chances…are great."      It also shows an incredible ignorance of probability.  The chances aren’t great; the chances are 0 (he wasn’t on it) or 1 (he was on it).  There is no "chance" involved in an already established event.  Of course, the honest statement "I wouldn’t be surprised if he was on it" makes the person look like a prejudiced jerk.       I’ll refrain from the obvious cheap shot. — Everything I needed to know in life I learned in kindergarten.  Like: There is great power in both creation and destruction, but creation focuses power, and destruction disperses it.  This is the superiority of creation.

– Mark Probert I reserve the right to post any email, at my discretion, into the newsgroup from where it originated. If you "post & mail" please state

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I think it’s disgusting that anyone would use such a tragedy to push a political agenda. –John Yes.  I think that this guy wants to get his picture in the dictionary next to the definition of ‘opportunist’ Visit his website. Visit his website. Visit his website. Visit his website. Oh, please visit his website.  

Here is the URL as a single line: http://www.worldnetdaily.com/bluesky_bresnahan/19990429_xex_doping_ou… Thanks, now I’ll be able to put in a garden.   – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I was kindly forwarded the following little gem this morning by someone.   I am not posting it here because I agree with any of the views contained and I didn’t write the piece (for any daft individual who thinks or says I have  - John) but what are everyone’s views on this news item? the article is at http://www.worldnetdaily.com/bluesky_bresnahan/19990429_xex_doping_ou… ml Doping our kids   Prescription drugs at root   of violence, says expert   By David M. Bresnahan  

Question:

All of you seem to have such encourement for those afflicted with this condition.  I know I have felt a lot of support reading the postings.  My husband is going through a very difficult time at the moment.  We have had 2 very emotional days, and usually this is a very strong man.  A month ago he had a heart attack and had angioplasty.  Not that the spasmodic torticollis isn’t bad enough, now he is worried about his heart also even though the cardiologist says there is no relation (I certainly question that with all the stress he has been under for the past 18 months).  He seems to be giving up telling me he can’t fight this thing anymore.  He take Baclofen and Artane and of course gets Botox every three months.  The Botox has not taken the pain away but it has allowed his head to remain in an upright position.  He suffers every waking moment with spasms and we have yet to find the right combination to relieve the pain.  Do any of you have any words of encouragement I can pass on to him.  Some of you have suffered with this for many, many years and seem to have found a way to deal with it even through you are in pain and my heart expecially goes out to the children who have to suffer with this.  Would love to hear from you and I will print the messages out and read to him as he cannot sit at the computer.  BethThanks to all of you. Virginia

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writes: He seems to be giving up telling me he can’t fight this thing anymore.  He take Baclofen and Artane and of course gets Botox every three months. The Botox has not taken the pain away but it has allowed his head to remain in an upright position.  He suffers every waking moment with spasms and we have yet to find the right combination to relieve the pain.  Do any of you have any words of encouragement I can pass on to him.  Some of you have suffered with this for many, many years and seem to have found a way to deal with it even through you are in pain and my heart expecially goes out to the children who have to suffer with this.  

I wish I could think of the right thing to say…its so hard.  I feel so bad for what you and your husband are going through.  Cant they admit him for awhile, like they did Jeremy, break the cycle and try other meds until something works?  I know what you must be going through, its so hard to watch someone you love suffer and feel so helpless.  My son has suffered for his whole 13 years of life and he often asked why I kept trying so hard to find a diagnosis and remedy….he had adjusted to it as a part of his life.  (Children adjust so much better than us adults!)  I told him that I would never give up and he was finally diagnosed about 7 months ago…..after 13 years of mis-diagnosis.  He is going through all the trials of medication and I think we have hit on a good combo now, but who knows how long it will last.   He encourages me more than I do him!  He always says *it will pass, dont worry, I’m fine*….as I bite off all my fingernails.   Since I dont know what to say….I asked for Jeremys input.  He found it hard to come up with something concrete except to say that he will pray for him, not to give up….that there is a light at the end of the tunnel sometimes, if God thought it was his time to go….he would, that he will get his reward in heaven for the suffering he has done on earth (I taught him that years ago….hes hoping heaven has alot of Super Nintendo games…you know kids) and that he has a family that loves him very much. I wish I could do better than this, but I am new at the dystonia diagnosis so I dont know exactly what can be done to find the relief he needs.  I am sure that  the more expercienced people on this newsgroup will have much better responses for you.  I just wanted you and your husband to know that we are praying for you and wishing you better days. Love, Cyndie and Jeremy

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writes: This may be a start in bombarding the networks.  

Lets do it!  And thanks for the info! Cyndie

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I finally found some addresses which I will pass along to all of you. NBC is Http://TVnet.com/tv/NYtv/wNBC.html – FAX 212-456-2290 CBS fax is, 212-975-5656 (did not locate an email address) I found a Donahue but not sure if this is Phil, it was just listed by last start in bombarding the networks.  

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Mary Beth you are wonderful!  You speak from your heart and since you have dealt with this condition for such a long time you can understand what he is going through.  I have mentioned you to Doug several times especially reinterating how long you have suffered with this, have raised a family, and, have such a terrific outlook on life.  This is a terrifying time for both of us, I try to give support and guess I am too much of an optimist. I always feel today isn’t so good, but tomorrow will be better.  Thank you for mentioning the depression after surgery, this may be what is hitting him now.  We have been the "I think I’m going crazy" route but that was due to medication which has now been corrected and he is back to normal. We do have to be careful what is prescribed because he takes so many other meds for his dystonia and the 2 doctors are not in the same group, or same city so I am the intermediary trying to make sure he is not taking drugs that will contridict each other.  I will speak with him regarding the possibility of a phone conversation I know if he could sit at this computer and read the messages posted he would find much support from all.  Thanks again for your concern, support, and very good advice. Fondly, Virginia

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Mary Beth you are wonderful!  You speak from your heart and since you have dealt with this condition for such a long time you can understand what he is going through.  I have mentioned you to Doug several times especially reinterating how long you have suffered with this, have raised a family, and, have such a terrific outlook on life.  This is a terrifying time for both of us, I try to give support and guess I am too much of an optimist. I always feel today isn’t so good, but tomorrow will be better.  Thank you for mentioning the depression after surgery, this may be what is hitting him now.  We have been the "I think I’m going crazy" route but that was due to medication which has now been corrected and he is back to normal. We do have to be careful what is prescribed because he takes so many other meds for his dystonia and the 2 doctors are not in the same group, or same city so I am the intermediary trying to make sure he is not taking drugs that will contridict each other.  I will speak with him regarding the possibility of a phone conversation I know if he could sit at this computer and read the messages posted he would find much support from all. Thanks again for your concern, support, and very good advice. Fondly, Virginia

Hi Virginia: I have ST with accompanying essential tremor, I also have panic disorder which causes depression at times for me.  Panic disorder can do a really good job of convincing you that you must be going crazy.  Tell Doug that it’s only the brightest, most brilliant minds that suffer from this kind of depression…….look at me!  <VBG  Having surgery can really knock you down hard, especially if you have other medical conditions that have to be treated properly at the same time.  I hope Doug is well on the way to recovery.  The depression will go, that I know.  No way is he going crazy.  There *will* be a cure for dystonia very soon – I’m convinced of that.  Give him a big hug from me and tell him I’m thinking of  both of you. All the best. Mally  

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Cyndie and Jeremy, Your touching note brought tears to my eyes and I want to thank you for your prayers.  I have pursued this horrible affliction much the same as you but of course not nearly as long.  I have searched for the very best medical Dr.s available and in the beginning, we he wasn’t as bad and was much stronger we would have gone anywhere to get the proper treatment, at least one that would give him relief.  We were lucky in a sense that the first neurologist we saw was familiar with dystonia and put him in touch with a doctor that was a researcher in the field and gave the botox injections.  He has not had any trouble with the blepharospasms after having 4 treatments which was back in October of 1994.  We were so hoping that the Botox would have the same affect on the torticollis, but so far it hasn’t, but we will keep trying.  We live in the Los Angeles area and there are many very fine centers and wonderful doctors here and believe me we have tried them all.  We have even been to the Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, AZ.  All the doctors we have seen are knowledgable, but they need to come up with the right combination of meds.  My very best to you and many, many kudos to your valiant son. Virginia

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