Question:

Antecodal evidence in this group is: 1/3 of the people who tried it: Vast improvement 1/3 of the people who tried it: Modest improvement 1/3 of the people who tried it: No effects whatsoever (I am in this last group)

Hey, Yep im in the last group too!! Seeya

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Re: singulair… Antecodal evidence in this group is: 1/3 of the people who tried it: Vast improvement 1/3 of the people who tried it: Modest improvement 1/3 of the people who tried it: No effects whatsoever (I am in this last group)

Yep… Side effects seem to be are and limited to aches in joints.

*HOWEVER* anecdotal evidence in this group for both Singulair and Accolate indicates that there is a ***very*** small percentage of people who use one of the two who will end up with some severe side effects/adverse reactions — significant drug-induced depression [which completely reverses once the drug has been stopped] being the primary one; also, there have been reports of severe allergic reactions to Singulair and Accolate [I experienced such with Accolate; and was in the 1/3 of those that Accolate did nothing for (well, until the reaction started, then I got much much worse )].   These reactions evidently did not show up or were not reported during the cinical trials… but did start showing up once the drugs were widely released.  The FDA is aware of them through their adverse reactions monitoring system, though I am not aware of any warnings or changes in drug inserts to reflect what is now known. However, it must be remembered that these reactions are probably downright RARE.  But they can and have happened. SW.

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My son has recently been prescribed singulair (montelukast sodium). His Consultant says it is a new form of treatment with varying success rates. Does anyone have any knowledge or experience with or about singulair that they could pass on? Thanks. Mike

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My son has recently been prescribed singulair (montelukast sodium). His Consultant says it is a new form of treatment with varying success rates. Does anyone have any knowledge or experience with or about singulair that they could pass on?

Antecodal evidence in this group is: 1/3 of the people who tried it: Vast improvement 1/3 of the people who tried it: Modest improvement 1/3 of the people who tried it: No effects whatsoever (I am in this last group) Side effects seem to be are and limited to aches in joints. Here is a link to the manufacturer’s website: http://www.singulair.com// More information from a pharmacy info site: http://www.druginfonet.com/pi_mfr/ppi/merck/singulai/singulai.htm "Keep looking below surface appearances. Don’t shrink from doing so (just) because you might not like what you find."    General Colin Powell

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Question:

This week I was diagnosed with Adult ADHD.  While this is not entirely a surprise and I am glad I’m not Bipolar instead, I am still pretty much freaking out about what this means and what the future holds, etc.  I am also worried about how the hell I will afford a psychiatrist, a psychotherapist, and prescription meds given that I am one of the many million of Americans without medical insurance.  I am about to finish grad school, assuming I don’t flunk out. I want to learn as much as possible about the disorder, treatment options, and related relationship issues.  Anecdotes about your own experiences and types of Adult ADD/ADHD would be helpful, as would insights into how you all deal with romantic relationships.  I’m a dyke, currently single, and I wonder what I can learn while I am still single that will help me navigate a successful relationship in the future – assuming I don’t "scare the horses" with my diagnosis. What were you *like" before your diagnosis, and then after treatment began?  Can you give me some specific behavioral examples that illustrate your experiences? Is it possible to manage ADHD without meds? Which meds work – and how? Will I magically be come a more productive and focused person on meds, less prone to anger and irritability, more capable of holding a rewarding job, and more calm/less distracted?  If I go on meds, will my sex drive suffer, will I gain weight, or will I have to deal with other unpleasant side effects? I have already been on and have come off Paxil, Zoloft, Effexor and Topamax, which were prescribed for panic disorder – all of which made me either suicidal, catatonic, seriously deperssed, or sexually numb.  I don’t want to go through that again! What experiences do you have of dealing with co-morbid conditions such as panic disorder, anxiety, and depression. One last thing – I am probably the only 34 year-old American who does not drive and never has.  I suspect that my fear of driving may have something to do with being ADHD, but I don’t know.  It could also be a phobia – or simply related to my panic disorder, but basically I am scared shitless of either killing myself or someone else if I get behind the wheel of a car.  I find it difficult to integrate looking around me, figuring out which road I need to turn into, figuring out which lane to be in, watching for small children or red lights, or obstacles, and signalling appropriately, as well as actually operating the machinery.  Has anyone ever heard of this sort of problem, or experienced something similar? Now that I live in California, I really need to get over it and get a license and a car, because SD Transit is killing my social life! Your input would be greatly appreciated. Vik San Diego, CA

Response:

This week I was diagnosed with Adult ADHD.  While this is not entirely

a surprise and I am glad I’m not Bipolar instead, I am still pretty much freaking out about what this means and what the future holds, etc.  I am also worried about how the hell I will afford a psychiatrist, a psychotherapist, and prescription meds given that I am one of the many million of Americans without medical insurance.  I am about to finish grad school, assuming I don’t flunk out. Whoa… hold on here… Just remember–you didn’t just "get" ADHD–you just got "diagnosed"–this should be a good thing–not something to freak you out.  The key is to realize that you have obviously developed some coping mechanisms since you have made it to grad school–the thing is, some of them are helpful and some are harmful.  You will be able to figure which are which as you educate yourself on the dis-ease that you have always had.   As for not having medical insurance–shame on you–but BOY do I understand!! (I too am a poor perpetual student–veterinary resident–so a little pay, but not quiet minmum wage when you work it out–thank goodness I get medical insurance through the state as I work at a university). There are programs through the drug companies to provide medication at a reduced or free rate to qualified individuals.  Ask the Dr. who diagnosed you to use "samples" when trying a new drug so you don’t spend money on meds that aren’t going to work for you. <<I want to learn as much as possible about the disorder, treatment options, and related relationship issues.  Anecdotes about your own experiences and types of Adult ADD/ADHD would be helpful, as would insights into how you all deal with romantic relationships.  I’m a dyke, currently single, and I wonder what I can learn while I am still single that will help me navigate a successful relationship in the future – assuming I don’t "scare the horses" with my diagnosis. This entire forum is a good place for anecdotes–but remember that everyone’s experiences will be different–although I bet you will recognize yourself in many of them! <<What were you *like" before your diagnosis, and then after treatment began?  Can you give me some specific behavioral examples that illustrate your experiences? I was diagnosed as a 7 year old, but through structure and activity I didn’t need meds until I was "on my own" and having more responsibilities without any "love-ingly nagging" parents to help me organize my time.  But some of my symptoms: –the small child lying in the middle of the grocery store aisle kicking and screaming –severe seperation anxiety–camp was a HUGE ordeal–ended up loving it in the end –Very creative ("gifted"), but insisted on doing things MY way –"hyper-emotional" "hyper-mature" –Would rather hang out with just a few friends than a big group (easily overstimulated) –On the go –Happiest "doing" rather than watching (ie–interrupting, 18 projects going on at once, very active in sports) –Impulse spending –Moody–especially PMS –oh yea–had anxiety issues that led to skin picking Since treatment: Straterra 80mg/Effexor 150 +37.5 during PMS/Buspar 20-30mg) –Realize when i am procrastinating (See "Motivation" thread on the forum –Realize when I am interrupting–unless it is something I am really excited about–then usually realize after the fact–oops! –More rational about my emotions, realize when I am heading toward a HULK episode–can usually nip it in the bud–not always… –Activity level still high –skin picking less–again–realize it, but don’t always choose to stop it. –Still moody after big changes in activity (ie–semi depressed after a big project is done…) Basically with meds i can monitor my behavior better–doesn’t always mean I change it as habits die hard! <<Is it possible to manage ADHD without meds? Which meds work – and how? Will I magically be come a more productive and focused person on meds,less prone to anger and irritability, more capable of holding a rewarding job, and more calm/less distracted?  If I go on meds, will my sex drive suffer, will I gain weight, or will I have to deal with other unpleasant side effects? I have already been on and have come off Paxil, Zoloft, Effexor and Topamax, which were prescribed for panic disorder – all of which made me either suicidal, catatonic, seriously deperssed, or sexually numb.  I don’t want to go through that again! I am less prone to irritability and anger for sure–probably becasue I realize when i am "overstimulated" and remove myself from the situation. I was hopeing to become magically more productive, etc.  BUT–not so…. I think the meds make me more "aware" so I can choose to change my behavior–I recommend at least a couple of sessions of therapy to recomment tricks to change your behavior. I am lucky and have had no big side effects with the meds.  The dr. has avoided true stimulants becasue of the skin picking issue (anxiety related).  I have had night sweats and that is about it. <<What experiences do you have of dealing with co-morbid conditions such as panic disorder, anxiety, and depression. All very common with ADHD.  Usually treating ADHD (if that is the underlying cause) diminishes the others to some degree. <<One last thing – I am probably the only 34 year-old American who does not drive and never has.  I suspect that my fear of driving may have something to do with being ADHD, but I don’t know.  It could also be a phobia – or simply related to my panic disorder, but basically I am scared shitless of either killing myself or someone else if I get behind the wheel of a car.  I find it difficult to integrate looking around me, figuring out which road I need to turn into, figuring out which lane to be in, watching for small children or red lights, or obstacles, and signalling appropriately, as well as actually operating the machinery.  Has anyone ever heard of this sort of problem, or experienced something similar? Now that I live in California, I really need to get over it and get a license and a car, because SD Transit is killing my social life! I think this is probably a learned behavior by now, so treating the ADHD may help you some, but overcoming your fear will take more than meds.  I reccomend finding a calm, supportive friend to help you start driving in a parking lot where you don’t have so many distractions. <<Your input would be greatly appreciated. Good luck!  Hang in there! RV

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – This week I was diagnosed with Adult ADHD.  While this is not entirely a surprise and I am glad I’m not Bipolar instead, I am still pretty much freaking out about what this means and what the future holds, etc.  I am also worried about how the hell I will afford a psychiatrist, a psychotherapist, and prescription meds given that I am one of the many million of Americans without medical insurance.  I am about to finish grad school, assuming I don’t flunk out. I want to learn as much as possible about the disorder, treatment options, and related relationship issues.  Anecdotes about your own experiences and types of Adult ADD/ADHD would be helpful, as would insights into how you all deal with romantic relationships.  I’m a dyke, currently single, and I wonder what I can learn while I am still single that will help me navigate a successful relationship in the future – assuming I don’t "scare the horses" with my diagnosis. What were you *like" before your diagnosis, and then after treatment began?  Can you give me some specific behavioral examples that illustrate your experiences? Is it possible to manage ADHD without meds? Which meds work – and how? Will I magically be come a more productive and focused person on meds, less prone to anger and irritability, more capable of holding a rewarding job, and more calm/less distracted?  If I go on meds, will my sex drive suffer, will I gain weight, or will I have to deal with other unpleasant side effects? I have already been on and have come off Paxil, Zoloft, Effexor and Topamax, which were prescribed for panic disorder – all of which made me either suicidal, catatonic, seriously deperssed, or sexually numb.  I don’t want to go through that again! What experiences do you have of dealing with co-morbid conditions such as panic disorder, anxiety, and depression. One last thing – I am probably the only 34 year-old American who does not drive and never has.  I suspect that my fear of driving may have something to do with being ADHD, but I don’t know.  It could also be a phobia – or simply related to my panic disorder, but basically I am scared shitless of either killing myself or someone else if I get behind the wheel of a car.  I find it difficult to integrate looking around me, figuring out which road I need to turn into, figuring out which lane to be in, watching for small children or red lights, or obstacles, and signalling appropriately, as well as actually operating the machinery.  Has anyone ever heard of this sort of problem, or experienced something similar? Now that I live in California, I really need to get over it and get a license and a car, because SD Transit is killing my social life! Your input would be greatly appreciated. Vik San Diego, CA

Vik <Big Preface No-one here that Ive seen will give you medical advice nor should they. Opinions – at least from me are just that – only opinions. Everyone here seems different but you will be able to identlify The people here are nice </Big Preface I am also newly diagnosed and kinda get the freaking bit but for different reasons. To address the issues I think your looking at re freaking…. I look at this slightly differently. To me ADD has upsides that I havent seen mentioned here. Having said that Im mildly ADD and havent been as obviously hammered as some. Statistically your likely to have an above average IQ. This is a good thing. The ability to hyperfocus is a good thing (if/when you can access it) particularly in conjunction with the IQ thing.If youre interested you can keep many things going at once – and on it goes. For me it aint all bad. I see it a little bit like being colour blind but making up for that by being able to see in the dark. Unfortuneatly the world operates in colour which is where I come unstuck. Im on Dex which basically allows me to see enough colour that I can work with people better. From what Ive seen there are two distinct groups here. Those that have the "H" and those who dont. Im one of the latter. Im probably Hypoactive not Hyper. I tend to have extended vague-outs. Cant comment to much on cost but for me Dex costs AU$23.00/month Dealing with people for me has been *so* much easier for a variety of reasons. All those little things that used to give me the shits just dont any more. Im *much* more patient. I dont interrupt others while theyre talking anywhere near as much as I used to so people dont get as pissed of at me. FTR this absolutely isnt a doped up / drugged patience,its a Im more alert but can deal with it thing. People smile at you in the morning and you actually notice and smile back. Dont know why youd "scare the horses". If you were diabetic would you feel the need to announce it at first meeting? Colour blind, had a heart condition ? I wouldnt/dont tell anyone that doesnt need to know. If you have someone who is getting close to you you might want to prep them with a "how to deal with me" talk but til them its no-ones business but yours. Dex makes me more focused but along with the procrastination I have to work on it. Meds arent,for me, a "cure". The effect is very much like the interrupting thing. I still start to interrupt at the moment but catch myself with my mouth open – I then have the choice as to what to do. If I find a moth Im far more likely to get distracted – realise Ive been distracted and get back to what I was doing. If Im procrastinating Dex lowers the hill I have to climb. The hill is still there but much smaller. Dex,as I understand it,typically reduces appetite. This has been the case with me but Ive always had to schedul meals and make sure I ate them – skinny guy lightening metabolism . One flash and its ash. My Doc here in Australia said that Ritalin is typically given to kids and Dex to adults – at least for the first prescription for just this reason (amongst others). In terms of holding a job Im statistically in the highest earning 10% in the country. I got it without meds and being self taught in my field and I enjoy what I do. Sounds like I make a fortune but have a look at the stats from the US which Im sure would be similar and Im sure youll be surprise how low that number is. I was. BTW – normally Id find this bit *really* tacky. I hate talking about incomes but it does prove you can function and hold down a good job. Re sex drive Some of the meds have the unfortunate side effect with guys of increasing desire but decreasing ability – not sure how that would work with a lady So….there you go …..my two cents worth Rod

Response:

As for not having medical insurance–shame on you–but BOY do I understand!! (I too am a poor perpetual student–veterinary resident–so a

Do your student fees include medical coverage? Some do. little pay, but not quiet minmum wage when you work it out–thank goodness I get medical insurance through the state as I work at a university). There are programs through the drug companies to provide medication at a reduced or free rate to qualified individuals.  Ask the Dr. who diagnosed you to use "samples" when trying a new drug so you don’t spend money on meds that aren’t going to work for you.

Doctors can’t give out "samples" of regulated drugs, which includes the more common ADD treatments.         Bob Kaplow      NAR # 18L       TRA # "Impeach the TRA BoD"                 To reply, remove the TRABoD! <<< Kaplow Klips & Baffle:      http://nira-rocketry.org/LeadingEdge/Phantom4000.pdf     www.encompasserve.org/~kaplow_r/    www.nira-rocketry.org    www.nar.org  Save Model Rocketry from the HSA!   http://www.space-rockets.com/congress.html

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There are programs through the drug companies to provide medication at a reduced or free rate to qualified individuals.

If you’re in the US you can check if the med you’re prescribed is on one of these programs at: http://www.needymeds.com/ . Multiple listings of any med means it’s available via different programs. Vashti

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.  I’m a dyke, currently single, and I wonder what I can learn while I am still single that will help me navigate a successful relationship in the future – assuming I don’t "scare the horses" with my diagnosis.

Here in England dyke means lesbian. It is an offensive word – like faggot.

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<<Doctors can’t give out "samples" of regulated drugs, which includes the more common ADD treatments. –Oh yea–good point!  In the veterinary field we don’t have to worry about that so much.  Occ. we do get the "drug-hunting" owner.  I guess I was also thinking of Straterra in particular.

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.  I’m a dyke, currently single, and I wonder what I can learn while I am still single that will help me navigate a successful relationship in the future – assuming I don’t "scare the horses" with my diagnosis. Here in England dyke means lesbian. It is an offensive word – like faggot.

It is offensive in the US as well, if, and only if, used by persons who are not lesbians to refer to persons who are lesbians.   For example there are numerous motorcycle clubs and bicycle clubs around the world calling themselves "Dykes on Bikes" including one in London <http://www.geocities.com/dykesonbikesuk/.  And referring to a pair of diagonal-cutting pliers or the famous earthworks in the Netherlands as "dykes" is not generally offensive to anyone except those who are determined to be offended. — –John Reply to jclarke at ae tee tee global dot net (was jclarke at eye bee em dot net)

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – This week I was diagnosed with Adult ADHD.  While this is not entirely a surprise and I am glad I’m not Bipolar instead, I am still pretty much freaking out about what this means and what the future holds, etc.  I am also worried about how the hell I will afford a psychiatrist, a psychotherapist, and prescription meds given that I am one of the many million of Americans without medical insurance.  I am about to finish grad school, assuming I don’t flunk out. I want to learn as much as possible about the disorder, treatment options, and related relationship issues.  Anecdotes about your own experiences and types of Adult ADD/ADHD would be helpful, as would insights into how you all deal with romantic relationships.  I’m a dyke, currently single, and I wonder what I can learn while I am still single that will help me navigate a successful relationship in the future – assuming I don’t "scare the horses" with my diagnosis. What were you *like" before your diagnosis, and then after treatment began?  Can you give me some specific behavioral examples that illustrate your experiences? Is it possible to manage ADHD without meds? Which meds work – and how? Will I magically be come a more productive and focused person on meds, less prone to anger and irritability, more capable of holding a rewarding job, and more calm/less distracted?  If I go on meds, will my sex drive suffer, will I gain weight, or will I have to deal with other unpleasant side effects? I have already been on and have come off Paxil, Zoloft, Effexor and Topamax, which were prescribed for panic disorder – all of which made me either suicidal, catatonic, seriously deperssed, or sexually numb.  I don’t want to go through that again! What experiences do you have of dealing with co-morbid conditions such as panic disorder, anxiety, and depression. One last thing – I am probably the only 34 year-old American who does not drive and never has.  I suspect that my fear of driving may have something to do with being ADHD, but I don’t know.  It could also be a phobia – or simply related to my panic disorder, but basically I am scared shitless of either killing myself or someone else if I get behind the wheel of a car.  I find it difficult to integrate looking around me, figuring out which road I need to turn into, figuring out which lane to be in, watching for small children or red lights, or obstacles, and signalling appropriately, as well as actually operating the machinery.  Has anyone ever heard of this sort of problem, or experienced something similar? Now that I live in California, I really need to get over it and get a license and a car, because SD Transit is killing my social life!

That’s interesting.  I was surprised that a friend’s teenager wasn’t raring to get behind the wheel–I asked her about it and she said she "doesn’t multi-task very well" and seemed to be afraid.  Kind of surprising because she seems to be the adventurous sort otherwise.  Not ADHD–she was evaluated for that and found not to have it.  I wonder if you and she are experiencing the same thing? One thing that may help–don’t try to learn in a city–if you can find a friend who’ll take you out far from the madding crowd and let you practice on back roads in the country where you don’t have to go fast or dodge a lot of traffic you can get the conditioned responses down and once you’ve done that so that you don’t have to constantly think about the mechanics of keeping the car on the road and going straight the whole thing may become a lot easier for you. Your input would be greatly appreciated. Vik San Diego, CA

– –John Reply to jclarke at ae tee tee global dot net (was jclarke at eye bee em dot net)

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Here in England dyke means lesbian. It is an offensive word – like faggot.

Here in the US dyke means lesbian too.  I didn’t mean to imply that I am a kangaroo or something – I meant to explain that I am a gay woman. And in England, where I am originally from and lived for a total of 18 years so far, lots of dykes self-ID as dykes.  Lots of lesbians self-ID as lesbians there too.  And lots of English queers self-ID as queer.  I guess any of these terms are only offensive to those who have not reclaimed the langugage. With that said, while in the UK, I’ve only lived in Sheffield, Liverpool, and London as a dyke – maybe in your neck of the woods (and social strata) the term ‘dyke’ is not the sexuality descriptive of choice. But it is for me. Cheers mate, Vik

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And referring to a pair of diagonal-cutting pliers or the famous earthworks in the Netherlands as "dykes" is not generally offensive to anyone except those who are determined to be offended.

Better yet being referred to as being akin to a dike is a *complement*. A dike is considered a great thing and somewhere along the line the phrase was born: "Zij is een dijk van een vrouw" would translate literally as : she’s a dike of a woman, ie a great/strong woman. Used to describe those of either gender in a positive way. Don’t know about the diagonal-cutting pliers though, you lost me on that one. Vashti

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Is it possible to manage ADHD without meds? Which meds work – and how? Will I magically be come a more productive and focused person on meds, less prone to anger and irritability, more capable of holding a rewarding job, and more calm/less distracted?  If I go on meds, will my sex drive suffer, will I gain weight, or will I have to deal with other unpleasant side effects?

Answering these questions form my experience only: It is possible to manage ADD without meds, until it isn’t.  With me, it became much less possible once I had kids. Generic Ritalin (methylphenidate) works great for me and it’s cheap. Yes I did become magically more productive, etc.  But I’m still ADD. The differences are usually subtle, but good.  My driving got much better. My sex drive didn’t change at all.  In fact my meds make it easier to concentrate, so if anything it’s better. No weight gain, sleep difficulties, or any other side effects.  I’m lucky, but I think this is the case more often than not.

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: This week I was diagnosed with Adult ADHD.  While this is not entirely : a surprise and I am glad I’m not Bipolar instead, I am still pretty : much freaking out about what this means and what the future holds, : etc.  I am also worried about how the hell I will afford a : psychiatrist, a psychotherapist, and prescription meds given that I am : one of the many million of Americans without medical insurance.  I am : about to finish grad school, assuming I don’t flunk out. What about your Student Health Centre? Financial Aid may have bursaries for help. That’s how i paid for my eight hours ($1200) of AD/HD testing. The Doc i see who specializes in AD/HD is at Student Health. For the last four years, i have had a job on campus working with students. I have learned a lot about how to deal with such situations. (e.g. finding resources!) What school are you at? : panic disorder – all of which made me either suicidal, catatonic, : seriously deperssed, or sexually numb.  I don’t want to go through : that again! The panic/anxiety/depression gets better with meds. Ritalin didn’t calm me down, but Dexedrine does. In retrospect, much of that anxiety is from benig scatter-brained and panicked over feeling like a disorganized walking disaster, i found. The depression was the helplessness over my workload (due to Executive impairments.) You may want to look up the phrase "Executive Function" on GOOGLE, to understand what in the brain is impaired. : What experiences do you have of dealing with co-morbid conditions such : as panic disorder, anxiety, and depression. See above. : One last thing – I am probably the only 34 year-old American who does : not drive and never has.  I suspect that my fear of driving may have : something to do with being ADHD, but I don’t know.  It could also be a : phobia – or simply related to my panic disorder, but basically I am : scared shitless of either killing myself or someone else if I get : behind the wheel of a car.  I find it difficult to integrate looking : around me, figuring out which road I need to turn into, figuring out : which lane to be in, watching for small children or red lights, or : obstacles, and signalling appropriately, as well as actually operating : the machinery.  Has anyone ever heard of this sort of problem, or : experienced something similar? Now that I live in California, I really : need to get over it and get a license and a car, because SD Transit is : killing my social life! Yup. AD/HDers have a higher rate of accidents — likely due to inattention and/or impulsivity. But with some help and planning, you will manage. <G Emma

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I am also recently pre-diagnosed with probably ADHD. For me, this is an incredible relief as the previous Bipolar diagnosis left me with unsuitable meds that didn’t even come cloe to helping me feel and/or be Normal. And when I say Normal, I mean MY definition of Normal. All I need to do now is verify what pill is pinkish-orange and has a ’score-line’ to help cut it in half, with the number 4930 over the ’score-line’ and the letter V under it. Does anyone have a recent PDR they could look this thing up in for me, please? TIA

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am also recently pre-diagnosed with probably ADHD. For me, this is an incredible relief as the previous Bipolar diagnosis left me with unsuitable meds that didn’t even come cloe to helping me feel and/or be Normal. And when I say Normal, I mean MY definition of Normal. All I need to do now is verify what pill is pinkish-orange and has a ’score-line’ to help cut it in half, with the number 4930 over the ’score-line’ and the letter V under it. Does anyone have a recent PDR they could look this thing up in for me, please?

You can sign up for an online PDR here: http://www.pdr.net/pdrnet/librarian

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am also recently pre-diagnosed with probably ADHD. For me, this is an incredible relief as the previous Bipolar diagnosis left me with unsuitable meds that didn’t even come cloe to helping me feel and/or be Normal. And when I say Normal, I mean MY definition of Normal. All I need to do now is verify what pill is pinkish-orange and has a ’score-line’ to help cut it in half, with the number 4930 over the ’score-line’ and the letter V under it. Does anyone have a recent PDR they could look this thing up in for me, please? You can sign up for an online PDR here: http://www.pdr.net/pdrnet/librarian

AWESOME!  THANK YOU!

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Question:

 you all should check out this web address, it is the journal of a schizophrenic…its amazing… http://www.h13.com <I finally am getting time to read some interesting posts and I find <the debate about to med or not to medicate an interesting one. A Shawneie forgery as about 2/3 of the posts today are. She is pissed off that her schemes were exposed and I refuse to allow her to use her sock puppets to hide behind so she is taking it out on everyone. Yes, she is having a very bad day.

LOL.. Poor pauly boy..

Response:

I finally am getting time to read some interesting posts and I find the debate about to med or not to medicate an interesting one. When my dau. was diagnosed with severe TS almost 3 yrs. ago, we chose to medicate.  Her tics were so that she could not attend school.  She had a loud hiccup type tic every 3 sec. of every waking moment.  Her tics went on from there.  I saw a picture of her at Christmas time when she was about in third grade where I actually took a picture of her in the middle of one of her tics.  I didn’t realize it was TS then.  I did go to m.d. about it, but they said, bad habits. So went to full gambit.  Seroquel, Respiradol, Zyprexia, Clonidine, Tenex, Klonopin, Geodon and  antidepressants–Zoloft, Wellbutrin, and Prozac.  After all of that, my dau. is not presently on any medications.  By this summer, she had had it and we pulled her off her present medications of Prozac and Geodon.  As soon as we deleted Prozac, my old dau. emerged.  She was a ticcing old dau., but her old personality resurfaced.  It was like a miracle to us.  She traded dealing with ticcing rather than being spaced out, drugged out, crazed out by drugs that she had no control over her reactions to.  Three years later she is learning to live with her ticcing, learning to deal with the teasing she had received in middle school (she hardly attended school at all during her middle school years).  She has developed a harder crust.  She no longer self-mutilates, but still tics a great deal and I drive4 her crazy–such as breathing, sneezing, coughing, etc.  My noises and mannerisms sends her into tail spins. If I had known that Prozac was having the negative impact on her, I would have demanded she be taken off of it.  I think many of us parents are just so desperate to return our children to what we view as normalcy.  I never realized how this med was affecting her.  I just thought she was mentally decompensating more.  Especially with antidepressants, you have to watch out for weight gain and ones that could make you tic more, such as Zoloft and Wellbutrin.  It is so complicated and scarey to medicate to kids.  They are often unable to fully explain to the medicating docs how the medications are truly affecting them. The child often wants the medications to work so bad that they are initially willing to put up with anything that could help them deal with the tics. Then it is further complicated by the philosophical treatment of the neuros vs. the psychiatrists.  It is also dependent on if you have a doctor in any field that has any real experience with TS.  It is just very scarey out there for both the parent and the TS child.  I know first hand.  Been there and done that. I think it took me awhile to come to terms with my daughter’s diagnosis of TS.  I see so many parents making comments, that "my beautiful, gifted, child has TS."  They feel that somehow their child has been blighted.  I know I fell into that trap too.  It just takes awhile for us parents to accept the pronounced changes that happen when a child has TS.  Their ticcing driving you crazy; their not being able to attend school sometimes; their being upset when kids tease them; their being depressed because their lives will never be the ame–they just want to be "normal" like everyone else.  Let’s face it, in adolescents, especially, it is like a kiss of death to be thought of as different.  All of the peer pressure is staggering to a TS child. Would I do what I did if I had to do it over again, probably.  Because I must remember where we were at three years ago–so desperate, so unwilling to accept what was my daughter’s plight.  Were we misguided–perhaps.  We we desperate–yes.  We just had to try to do anything we could go help her, good or bad, only to come to full circle and take all of the medications away.  The ironies of life. Dawnee Dawnee

Response:

Question:

Hello Jeff, Seroxat and Paxil are two names for the same drug. The name Seroxat is used in the UK and Paxil, I believe, is what it’s called in the US. Sorry about the confusion. Before the cross posters arrived, quite suddenly it appeared, this was a great group. I started posting on 13th of December last and found that the group helped me greatly over the overwhelmingly miserable period during Christmas and the New Year. What I’m leading up to is that reading the post here and better still posting messages is highly therapeutic and is what I would recommend that you do but sadly the group no longer functions the way it did. Cormac’s suggestion is a good one if you can find a support group. I’m certain there are many such groups in the US but a lot depends on the nature of the support group and the particular way you interact with such a group. We are all different and I can go to a support group here in Dublin but I’m not at all happy with the way it’s run. The fella who set up the group effectively controls the group and I object strongly to this but am afraid to say anything to the psychologist in the hospital where the support group is based about the situation as I see it. The fella who runs the support group and the psychologist are great friends and if I said anything I can almost hear the psychologist ask me now why do I feel this way and I’m sure I would get nowhere and end up banging my head off the wall. Be wary in support groups. You will meet all types and I know from personal experience you may meet folks there who will use you if the conditions are right for that. That is exactly what happened to me. A long time member of the group homed in on me and ended up bullying me in a most insidious way. So, Jeff, beware in the support group setting. As the student who was treating me using CBT told me as she told me I could join the support I would meet all types in the support group. I thought what a strange thing to say. Are we not all on each other’s side I asked myself. The frightening answer is no. Peter Nolan. To email please remove x from xpeter…@gofree.indigo.ie

Response:

Hello Jeff, I’m attempting to send the message below a second time. It never made it first time round. — Peter Nolan. To email please remove x from xpeter…@gofree.indigo.ie – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

Hello Jeff, Seroxat and Paxil are two names for the same drug. The name Seroxat is

used

in the UK and Paxil, I believe, is what it’s called in the US. Sorry about the confusion. Before the cross posters arrived, quite suddenly it appeared, this was a great group. I started posting on 13th of December last and found that the group helped me greatly over the overwhelmingly miserable period during Christmas and the New Year. What I’m leading up to is that reading the

post

here and better still posting messages is highly therapeutic and is what I would recommend that you do but sadly the group no longer functions the

way

it did. Cormac’s suggestion is a good one if you can find a support group. I’m certain there are many such groups in the US but a lot depends on the

nature

of the support group and the particular way you interact with such a

group.

We are all different and I can go to a support group here in Dublin but

I’m

not at all happy with the way it’s run. The fella who set up the group effectively controls the group and I object strongly to this but am afraid to say anything to the psychologist in the hospital where the support

group

is based about the situation as I see it. The fella who runs the support group and the psychologist are great friends and if I said anything I can almost hear the psychologist ask me now why do I feel this way and I’m

sure

I would get nowhere and end up banging my head off the wall. Be wary in support groups. You will meet all types and I know from

personal

experience you may meet folks there who will use you if the conditions are right for that. That is exactly what happened to me. A long time member of the group homed in on me and ended up bullying me in a most insidious way. So, Jeff, beware in the support group setting. As the student who was treating me using CBT told me as she told me I could join the support I would meet all types in the support group. I thought what a strange thing

to

say. Are we not all on each other’s side I asked myself. The frightening answer is no. Peter Nolan. To email please remove x from xpeter…@gofree.indigo.ie

Response:

Check the website  www.socialanxietyinstitute.org I find it extremly helpful. Consider joining a support group – mentioned in the web site. Jeff <jeff9…@hotmail.com

wrote in message

news:7eb49709.0204152150.287da20e@posting.google.com… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

I’m not sure anyone will see this or respond, but at minimum this posting will let me organize my thoughts and try to explain my situation. I’m male, 31 years old, and have lived with debilitating social anxiety for as long as I can remember, long before there were slick TV commercials for marginally effective pharmaceuticals to treat the disorder. I saw my first psychiatrist when I was 18, who told me I was a nice guy and would have a great life, just stop worrying so much.  By the time I was 24 I finally worked up the courage to talk to a doctor about my depression and social anxiety, and went through the usual suspects with less than impressive results: Zoloft, Serzone, Effexor, Moclobemide.  Then I contracted mono (great, what were the chances of that for a 27 year old virgin).  That completely knocked me out for several months.  Through my doctor, I finally got a referral to a good psychiatrist who diagnosed me with social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder and depression.  He put me on Parnate and Klonopin, and I was pleasantly surprised, because I actually felt better than I’d ever felt in my entire life.  I looked forward to my day… the pounding heart and sweaty palms went away, I didn’t think everyone was staring at me, and I could go out to social functions without getting incredibly nervous. The dietary restrictions for Parnate were a minor inconvenience. So were the sleep disturbances/minor insomnia.  My life became almost normal.  I went out with friends.  I know, I know, you aren’t supposed to feel better just from meds… it takes lots of CBT and hard work.  My experience, even with good therapists says that is not true.  I’ve read the books, and understand all the distortions and negative thought patterns that pass through my mind.  But being aware of them, and being able to get them under control are two separate things.  I just have this brain chemistry that kicks in so strongly that the power of thought is not enough. One year later, after relocating to the US, I mentioned the insomnia to my doctor and she said it was caused by depression, and tripled the dose of Parnate, and also suggested ECT, which I declined.  I didn’t sleep properly for days, and got extremely sick with a bacterial infection, probably because I was so tired and my immune system went on a vacation.  It scared me so much that I took myself off Parnate and Klonopin (tapered) without consulting my doctor, who I no longer trusted. This was the worst decision of my life (and I’ve made a lot of bad decisions).  After a few weeks, I quickly realized my error after I started returning to my old ways of hiding out in my apartment avoiding everyone.  Since then, I’ve been dragged through unsuccessful courses of Prozac, Effexor (yuck) and Wellbutrin (double yuck).  I can tolerate side effects, but generally expect to feel better rather than worse.  That all ended about two years ago, when I gave up on meds and doctors who have a kneejerk reaction of try Paxil… try Effexor… or whatever drug-du-jour is being peddled. So I’ve put myself in a terrible position.  The only thing that ever worked for me was a MAOI, and nobody wants to prescribe that.  Or a scheduled drug like Klonopin.  Probably now I’m profiled as exhibiting drug-seeking behavior.  But that seems odd since I have old unused prescriptions for both of the above sitting in the back of my medicine cabinet, as well as random assortments of various drugs sufficient to kill a horse. So, two years of being med-free, practicing meditation daily, and lots of aerobic exercise have not helped, and I am a complete isolated hopeless nervous mess.  When I went to my doctor last week for a sinus infection, I mentioned that I used to be on Parnate, and she said she couldn’t believe anyone prescribed that anymore, and proceeded to explain how great SSRIs are.  I just shut up, went home and took my antibiotics. I don’t know what to do.  Money is not an issue.  I just want to somehow get out of this mess.  I don’t look forward to anything… I can barely go out to buy groceries.  It really hurts me at work.  I may skip an old friend’s wedding because I don’t think I can handle it.  Not sure what to do.  I think good psychiatrists are hard to find- I can’t imagine anyone wanting to take on a case like mine. It seems like there is really no way out of this.  I’m just so tired of life being a constant struggle with getting nervous talking to anyone… I’m getting way too old for this. I’m not suicidal, but wouldn’t be terribly upset if I were run over by a truck tomorrow.  Yes, touching, I know. If you’ve made it this far, I apologize for my rambling. If you can think of any way to get out of this mess, let me know.  I can’t even think of a first step that isn’t destined for failure. Jeff psychiatrist I feel trapped in my apartment now and need help, but can’t figure out how to proceed.  My last attempt was several

Response:

Thanks Peter, Doug, and kicken for your thoughtful responses. I am going to get in touch with my doctor back in Canada, to see if he can help me out with some sort of letter of introduction. I had been a patient of his for several years, so there’s a good possibility he can help out.  Even the doctor in the US who tripled my dose of Parnate may be able to help out, and at least attest to the fact that I was doing okay.  I’m also going to write/phone local psychiatrists to determine if one of them has experience prescribing Parnate. Failing that, Peter mentioned a Seroxat/Paxil combo that I have not tried before, which sounds like it may be worth a try, though I am skeptical because of lack of success with anything other than a MAOI. The worst part is that the disease itself is a real hindrance to finding treatment, because my behavior is just so avoidant. Also, I always feel that it’s not taken seriously, like any of the more popular/trendy psychological disorders.  After all, I’m no threat to anyone, and I’m not experiencing any specific crisis.  At least now I have some concrete ideas on how to proceed – thanks all for the ideas on how to get out of this rut.   Jeff – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -gd…@aug.com (Doug) wrote in message <news:3cbd5389.2725248@news.aug.com

… Jeff, At this point, it sounds like a plan would be to get back on the Parnate and Klonopin which you said you gave up on.  What are the possibilities of writing the doctor again who originally prescribed the Parnate and the Klonopin?  I believe s/he’s in another country now? so this may be impossible.  If you could and sent your posted letter with your cover letter, you might have a fairly good chance of at least getting a letter of introduction for another doctor.  This may be impractical, but what about trying to see the U.S. doctor who tripled the Parnate dose.  I mean there are at least 2 doctors who weren’t averse to prescribing Parnate and Klonopin for you.   The 2nd doctor could be a definite maybe.  Even if you can’t see this doctor because of distance, could you write a letter to her explaining what you’re going thru and request her to write a letter of introduction "To Whom It May Concern" (some unknown doctor as yet) that explains what you’ve tried, what worked and what her recommendation is. I did this when I relocated to another state in the U.S. several months ago and the introductory letter did help.  I’ve been able to continue taking the same meds, but I’m under a little tighter control right now than I was previously.  That could be changed by seeking out a new shrink or by possibly asking my new family GP if he’d be willing to take over the prescriptions. If none of the above is practical, you can write your own letter of introduction, using most, if not all of what you wrote in this post and make an appt. with a new psychiatrist.  Your post is very explicit so I’d include it too.  Good luck. Doug

Response:

Hi Jeff, I’m also 31 and have social phobia and depression probably my whole life. I’ve been on almost every med and combo and other treatments and Parnate is the only one to give some relief also. I do get frustrated at times about some side-effects and that it might not be working enough, then I go off and see how much worse I get and go back on. I would try finding a Dr. in your area that has experience prescribing MAOI’s. It’s rule of thumb to go back to what has helped in the past. I hope you find a good Dr. willing to give it to you and hope you feel better. I’ve been on and off of Parnate for almost a decade. I hope to get better to all the time. Take care B jeff9…@hotmail.com (Jeff) wrote in message

<news:7eb49709.0204152150.287da20e@posting.google.com

…

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

I’m not sure anyone will see this or respond, but at minimum this posting will let me organize my thoughts and try to explain my situation. I’m male, 31 years old, and have lived with debilitating social anxiety for as long as I can remember, long before there were slick TV commercials for marginally effective pharmaceuticals to treat the disorder. I saw my first psychiatrist when I was 18, who told me I was a nice guy and would have a great life, just stop worrying so much.  By the time I was 24 I finally worked up the courage to talk to a doctor about my depression and social anxiety, and went through the usual suspects with less than impressive results: Zoloft, Serzone, Effexor, Moclobemide.  Then I contracted mono (great, what were the chances of that for a 27 year old virgin).  That completely knocked me out for several months.  Through my doctor, I finally got a referral to a good psychiatrist who diagnosed me with social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder and depression.  He put me on Parnate and Klonopin, and I was pleasantly surprised, because I actually felt better than I’d ever felt in my entire life.  I looked forward to my day… the pounding heart and sweaty palms went away, I didn’t think everyone was staring at me, and I could go out to social functions without getting incredibly nervous. The dietary restrictions for Parnate were a minor inconvenience. So were the sleep disturbances/minor insomnia.  My life became almost normal.  I went out with friends.  I know, I know, you aren’t supposed to feel better just from meds… it takes lots of CBT and hard work.  My experience, even with good therapists says that is not true.  I’ve read the books, and understand all the distortions and negative thought patterns that pass through my mind.  But being aware of them, and being able to get them under control are two separate things.  I just have this brain chemistry that kicks in so strongly that the power of thought is not enough. One year later, after relocating to the US, I mentioned the insomnia to my doctor and she said it was caused by depression, and tripled the dose of Parnate, and also suggested ECT, which I declined.  I didn’t sleep properly for days, and got extremely sick with a bacterial infection, probably because I was so tired and my immune system went on a vacation.  It scared me so much that I took myself off Parnate and Klonopin (tapered) without consulting my doctor, who I no longer trusted. This was the worst decision of my life (and I’ve made a lot of bad decisions).  After a few weeks, I quickly realized my error after I started returning to my old ways of hiding out in my apartment avoiding everyone.  Since then, I’ve been dragged through unsuccessful courses of Prozac, Effexor (yuck) and Wellbutrin (double yuck).  I can tolerate side effects, but generally expect to feel better rather than worse.  That all ended about two years ago, when I gave up on meds and doctors who have a kneejerk reaction of try Paxil… try Effexor… or whatever drug-du-jour is being peddled. So I’ve put myself in a terrible position.  The only thing that ever worked for me was a MAOI, and nobody wants to prescribe that.  Or a scheduled drug like Klonopin.  Probably now I’m profiled as exhibiting drug-seeking behavior.  But that seems odd since I have old unused prescriptions for both of the above sitting in the back of my medicine cabinet, as well as random assortments of various drugs sufficient to kill a horse. So, two years of being med-free, practicing meditation daily, and lots of aerobic exercise have not helped, and I am a complete isolated hopeless nervous mess.  When I went to my doctor last week for a sinus infection, I mentioned that I used to be on Parnate, and she said she couldn’t believe anyone prescribed that anymore, and proceeded to explain how great SSRIs are.  I just shut up, went home and took my antibiotics. I don’t know what to do.  Money is not an issue.  I just want to somehow get out of this mess.  I don’t look forward to anything… I can barely go out to buy groceries.  It really hurts me at work.  I may skip an old friend’s wedding because I don’t think I can handle it.  Not sure what to do.  I think good psychiatrists are hard to find- I can’t imagine anyone wanting to take on a case like mine. It seems like there is really no way out of this.  I’m just so tired of life being a constant struggle with getting nervous talking to anyone… I’m getting way too old for this. I’m not suicidal, but wouldn’t be terribly upset if I were run over by a truck tomorrow.  Yes, touching, I know. If you’ve made it this far, I apologize for my rambling. If you can think of any way to get out of this mess, let me know.  I can’t even think of a first step that isn’t destined for failure. Jeff psychiatrist I feel trapped in my apartment now and need help, but can’t figure out how to proceed.  My last attempt was several

Response:

Jeff, At this point, it sounds like a plan would be to get back on the Parnate and Klonopin which you said you gave up on.  What are the possibilities of writing the doctor again who originally prescribed the Parnate and the Klonopin?  I believe s/he’s in another country now? so this may be impossible.  If you could and sent your posted letter with your cover letter, you might have a fairly good chance of at least getting a letter of introduction for another doctor.  This may be impractical, but what about trying to see the U.S. doctor who tripled the Parnate dose.  I mean there are at least 2 doctors who weren’t averse to prescribing Parnate and Klonopin for you.   The 2nd doctor could be a definite maybe.  Even if you can’t see this doctor because of distance, could you write a letter to her explaining what you’re going thru and request her to write a letter of introduction "To Whom It May Concern" (some unknown doctor as yet) that explains what you’ve tried, what worked and what her recommendation is. I did this when I relocated to another state in the U.S. several months ago and the introductory letter did help.  I’ve been able to continue taking the same meds, but I’m under a little tighter control right now than I was previously.  That could be changed by seeking out a new shrink or by possibly asking my new family GP if he’d be willing to take over the prescriptions. If none of the above is practical, you can write your own letter of introduction, using most, if not all of what you wrote in this post and make an appt. with a new psychiatrist.  Your post is very explicit so I’d include it too.  Good luck. Doug On 15 Apr 2002 22:50:24 -0700, jeff9…@hotmail.com (Jeff) wrote: – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

I’m not sure anyone will see this or respond, but at minimum this posting will let me organize my thoughts and try to explain my situation. I’m male, 31 years old, and have lived with debilitating social anxiety for as long as I can remember, long before there were slick TV commercials for marginally effective pharmaceuticals to treat the disorder. I saw my first psychiatrist when I was 18, who told me I was a nice guy and would have a great life, just stop worrying so much.  By the time I was 24 I finally worked up the courage to talk to a doctor about my depression and social anxiety, and went through the usual suspects with less than impressive results: Zoloft, Serzone, Effexor, Moclobemide.  Then I contracted mono (great, what were the chances of that for a 27 year old virgin).  That completely knocked me out for several months.  Through my doctor, I finally got a referral to a good psychiatrist who diagnosed me with social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder and depression.  He put me on Parnate and Klonopin, and I was pleasantly surprised, because I actually felt better than I’d ever felt in my entire life.  I looked forward to my day… the pounding heart and sweaty palms went away, I didn’t think everyone was staring at me, and I could go out to social functions without getting incredibly nervous. The dietary restrictions for Parnate were a minor inconvenience. So were the sleep disturbances/minor insomnia.  My life became almost normal.  I went out with friends.  I know, I know, you aren’t supposed to feel better just from meds… it takes lots of CBT and hard work.  My experience, even with good therapists says that is not true.  I’ve read the books, and understand all the distortions and negative thought patterns that pass through my mind.  But being aware of them, and being able to get them under control are two separate things.  I just have this brain chemistry that kicks in so strongly that the power of thought is not enough. One year later, after relocating to the US, I mentioned the insomnia to my doctor and she said it was caused by depression, and tripled the dose of Parnate, and also suggested ECT, which I declined.  I didn’t sleep properly for days, and got extremely sick with a bacterial infection, probably because I was so tired and my immune system went on a vacation.  It scared me so much that I took myself off Parnate and Klonopin (tapered) without consulting my doctor, who I no longer trusted. This was the worst decision of my life (and I’ve made a lot of bad decisions).  After a few weeks, I quickly realized my error after I started returning to my old ways of hiding out in my apartment avoiding everyone.  Since then, I’ve been dragged through unsuccessful courses of Prozac, Effexor (yuck) and Wellbutrin (double yuck).  I can tolerate side effects, but generally expect to feel better rather than worse.  That all ended about two years ago, when I gave up on meds and doctors who have a kneejerk reaction of try Paxil… try Effexor… or whatever drug-du-jour is being peddled. So I’ve put myself in a terrible position.  The only thing that ever worked for me was a MAOI, and nobody wants to prescribe that.  Or a scheduled drug like Klonopin.  Probably now I’m profiled as exhibiting drug-seeking behavior.  But that seems odd since I have old unused prescriptions for both of the above sitting in the back of my medicine cabinet, as well as random assortments of various drugs sufficient to kill a horse. So, two years of being med-free, practicing meditation daily, and lots of aerobic exercise have not helped, and I am a complete isolated hopeless nervous mess.  When I went to my doctor last week for a sinus infection, I mentioned that I used to be on Parnate, and she said she couldn’t believe anyone prescribed that anymore, and proceeded to explain how great SSRIs are.  I just shut up, went home and took my antibiotics. I don’t know what to do.  Money is not an issue.  I just want to somehow get out of this mess.  I don’t look forward to anything… I can barely go out to buy groceries.  It really hurts me at work.  I may skip an old friend’s wedding because I don’t think I can handle it.  Not sure what to do.  I think good psychiatrists are hard to find- I can’t imagine anyone wanting to take on a case like mine. It seems like there is really no way out of this.  I’m just so tired of life being a constant struggle with getting nervous talking to anyone… I’m getting way too old for this. I’m not suicidal, but wouldn’t be terribly upset if I were run over by a truck tomorrow.  Yes, touching, I know. If you’ve made it this far, I apologize for my rambling. If you can think of any way to get out of this mess, let me know.  I can’t even think of a first step that isn’t destined for failure. Jeff psychiatrist I feel trapped in my apartment now and need help, but can’t figure out how to proceed.  My last attempt was several

Response:

I’m not sure anyone will see this or respond, but at minimum this posting will let me organize my thoughts and try to explain my situation. I’m male, 31 years old, and have lived with debilitating social anxiety for as long as I can remember, long before there were slick TV commercials for marginally effective pharmaceuticals to treat the disorder. I saw my first psychiatrist when I was 18, who told me I was a nice guy and would have a great life, just stop worrying so much.  By the time I was 24 I finally worked up the courage to talk to a doctor about my depression and social anxiety, and went through the usual suspects with less than impressive results: Zoloft, Serzone, Effexor, Moclobemide.  Then I contracted mono (great, what were the chances of that for a 27 year old virgin).  That completely knocked me out for several months.  Through my doctor, I finally got a referral to a good psychiatrist who diagnosed me with social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder and depression.  He put me on Parnate and Klonopin, and I was pleasantly surprised, because I actually felt better than I’d ever felt in my entire life.  I looked forward to my day… the pounding heart and sweaty palms went away, I didn’t think everyone was staring at me, and I could go out to social functions without getting incredibly nervous. The dietary restrictions for Parnate were a minor inconvenience. So were the sleep disturbances/minor insomnia.  My life became almost normal.  I went out with friends.  I know, I know, you aren’t supposed to feel better just from meds… it takes lots of CBT and hard work.  My experience, even with good therapists says that is not true.  I’ve read the books, and understand all the distortions and negative thought patterns that pass through my mind.  But being aware of them, and being able to get them under control are two separate things.  I just have this brain chemistry that kicks in so strongly that the power of thought is not enough. One year later, after relocating to the US, I mentioned the insomnia to my doctor and she said it was caused by depression, and tripled the dose of Parnate, and also suggested ECT, which I declined.  I didn’t sleep properly for days, and got extremely sick with a bacterial infection, probably because I was so tired and my immune system went on a vacation.  It scared me so much that I took myself off Parnate and Klonopin (tapered) without consulting my doctor, who I no longer trusted. This was the worst decision of my life (and I’ve made a lot of bad decisions).  After a few weeks, I quickly realized my error after I started returning to my old ways of hiding out in my apartment avoiding everyone.  Since then, I’ve been dragged through unsuccessful courses of Prozac, Effexor (yuck) and Wellbutrin (double yuck).  I can tolerate side effects, but generally expect to feel better rather than worse.  That all ended about two years ago, when I gave up on meds and doctors who have a kneejerk reaction of try Paxil… try Effexor… or whatever drug-du-jour is being peddled. So I’ve put myself in a terrible position.  The only thing that ever worked for me was a MAOI, and nobody wants to prescribe that.  Or a scheduled drug like Klonopin.  Probably now I’m profiled as exhibiting drug-seeking behavior.  But that seems odd since I have old unused prescriptions for both of the above sitting in the back of my medicine cabinet, as well as random assortments of various drugs sufficient to kill a horse. So, two years of being med-free, practicing meditation daily, and lots of aerobic exercise have not helped, and I am a complete isolated hopeless nervous mess.  When I went to my doctor last week for a sinus infection, I mentioned that I used to be on Parnate, and she said she couldn’t believe anyone prescribed that anymore, and proceeded to explain how great SSRIs are.  I just shut up, went home and took my antibiotics. I don’t know what to do.  Money is not an issue.  I just want to somehow get out of this mess.  I don’t look forward to anything… I can barely go out to buy groceries.  It really hurts me at work.  I may skip an old friend’s wedding because I don’t think I can handle it.  Not sure what to do.  I think good psychiatrists are hard to find- I can’t imagine anyone wanting to take on a case like mine. It seems like there is really no way out of this.  I’m just so tired of life being a constant struggle with getting nervous talking to anyone… I’m getting way too old for this. I’m not suicidal, but wouldn’t be terribly upset if I were run over by a truck tomorrow.  Yes, touching, I know. If you’ve made it this far, I apologize for my rambling. If you can think of any way to get out of this mess, let me know.  I can’t even think of a first step that isn’t destined for failure. Jeff psychiatrist I feel trapped in my apartment now and need help, but can’t figure out how to proceed.  My last attempt was several

Response:

Hello Jeff, I read through your message to the end. I stay away from this group now because of the cross posting. I’m sorry to tell you there are no simple answers for anyone like you or me suffering from Social Phobia. If there were this great newsgroup that has been decimated by cross posters wouldn’t exist. The only thing you can be certain of is that you will continue to suffer unless something great happens to you which it could. For me being able to leave my so called home where I live with my cruel parents would be the breakthrough for me but that can’t happen yet and may never happen. You say money isn’t a problem. In that case as bad as things may seem to be you could be like me living at home with almost no money at all. I’m not being dismissive here. I understand perfectly well that the solution for each of us that would give us the greatest relief is different for all of us and just because you can do what I can’t which is to get away from my parents in no way means that you aren’t suffering as much as I am. My advice to you is to keep trying. You say you are not suicidal and neither am I by the way then you will keep going forever hoping that things will sort themselves out somehow and maybe they will. The root cause of Social Phobia isn’t at all understood and naturally this is a major problem. I think I have a handle on it in my own case and this helps but the psychological battering I take from my parents 24/7 prevents me from making the breakthroughs I could now make if I was out on my own. I’m 48 by the way. Many people in the group(as it used to be) get great relif from drugs like Seroxat/Paxil but there was a post I saw at one point where the subject line was "Paxil is a Monster". So while drugs work for some people and in many cases transform their lives this is not always the case, indeed far from it. Satellites orbit the earth and perform many functions for us like providing us with a great telecommunications system but sadly the drugs available today are so primitive that they can hardly be described as therapeutic although drugs like anti-biotics are first class compounds. The same cannot be said for other drugs as you almost certainly know yourself. All I can say is you will keep going and always looking out for a way out of this savage disorder that annihilates it’s victims. I’m sorry I can’t help you. Have you tried Seroxat/Paxil? Some people in the group swear by it! Drugs would have no effect on me. Peter Nolan. To email please remove x from xpeter…@gofree.indigo.ie

Response:

Question:

Nichole, Excuse my ignorance but I saw you mention you gave up cream cheese. I had asked you why in a previous post , so that question is answered. I’m wondering why you dont eat Diet Jello if it has no carbs? Is it because it whets your appetite for sweets? I’m new at this. Is there a list of things that people in here have found to be counter productive though it is considered legal food? Thanks so much, Laureen

Response:

Beth, smack smack whats to give up. Its a healthy change post a day or two here are you working out did you consume some major salt intake prior to the 4 lb gain there are so many factors are you measureing and counting foods if you have lowered your calorie, sometimes what we think is a cup and what is a cup is vastly different You are the person in control of your weightloss, no one else JoKnows

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am sort of giving up on the idea of weightloss. I will stay on Atkins just because it’s effects on my BG.  I have not lost anything, inches or lbs. since my first 12 days. I woke up this morning and found I gained 4 1/2 lbs in 2 days. I don’t get my TOM so that can’t be it. ( I did lower my calories 1900- 2000/day) I had to give up Chromium Picolinate because it made my BG rise. I did find that I must eat something ever 3-4 hours or my BG rises. My body thinks I am starving and makes my liver kick out more glycogen.  This all stems from years of starving my self. No Breakfasts. Ignoring hunger pangs. Being to lazy to get up and make something.  I actually have conditioned myself to enjoy the feeling of being hungry. Sure I get lightheaded but …. Hmmm.. I can’t remember any benefits of it. I used to do it because I didn’t want to be seen eating in front of my friends in school and I wanted to sleep in a little longer in the morning. I am not sure how to correct it. I will try to eat more calories from protain and fat. I will try Nina’s suggestion for 10x weight and I won’t weigh myself for 3 weeks. We’ll see where I stand then. I am trying to wean myself off from my Zoloft. I currently take 50 mg. The reason I take it is because of a natural tendency for despair. I get very negative about myself. With it I feel great. I just know it is said that these type of meds hinder weightloss. Can you suggest any natural alternatives. I have to go back to my DR. in December for a 3 month Hba1c. I will also ask him to test my thyroid to make sure my Levoxl is working enough. My body temp. is always 97.8 and hasn’t changed since beginning the Thyroid meds. After Thanksgiving I am going to try a Yeast cleansing diet to see if that is a cause of no weight loss. BethM — homepage.mac.com/bsmorr/Photo 1         297/291.5/165

Response:

Oh, Beth… I’m sorry you are feeling bad about your lack of loss in the last few weeks. If you posted what you are eating, I missed it.  I usually don’t read those posts.  I cut out cream and cream cheese, artificial sweetener in packet form and am trying to eliminate all preservatives from my diet.  I also cut out diet Jell-O.  I know this way of eating works for improvement of so many areas of one’s physical being, including weight loss.  I think that Dianne Schwartzbien said that some people may not lose for an entire year on low carb because they have been so depleted by years of low cal/low fat dieting. I think you are wise to continue on Low Carb to reap the medical benefits. I do believe if you experiment a bit you may find yourself losing the weight you wish to shed.  Hang in there, babydoll!  Bliss is just down the road a piece.

Thanks Nichole, I am going to try a few differnt things and try to forget about losing weight. I am hoping for a big weight loss suprise at the end of 3 weeks. I will never leave this WOE BethM — Some of God’s greatest gifts are unanswerd prayers. (Garth Brooks) homepage.mac.com/bsmorr/Photo 1        297/291.5/165

Response:

Hi Beth, Sorry to hear about all the trouble you’ve been having. I can’t actually see your initial post. I just got here and I think it’s too old for me to see. If you’d like, reply with what you eat on a daily basis and I’ll try to help out… — Sal C. Author of, "The One Low Carb Diet That Always Works" www.simplifiedweightloss.com

Thanks but I am not going to keep posting my foods. I have read the books I know what might be the culprit. I will give it three weeks. I am fighting hypothyroidism, and am taking my temp. As of 4:11pm I am 97.6. My levoxyl need adjusting. BethM — Some of God’s greatest gifts are unanswerd prayers. (Garth Brooks) homepage.mac.com/bsmorr/Photo 1        297/291.5/165

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hey, Beth, don’t give up. I do think it’s a good idea to give yourself a little break for awhile though, emotionally. Not weighing for awhile is a great way to take a break. But don’t give up entirely. You may still be in an adjustment phase. I think you should listen to Nina about the 10-12x your weight in calories. Nina really knows her stuff! I’m not sure a natural alternative to Zoloft wouldn’t have the same side effects. But you wouldn’t be able to control the dose as well. Maybe your doctor has another suggestion about a different medication. You may have hit on something about getting hungry. Can you work on spreading out your food over even more meals than you already do? Maybe you have something to go on about the yeast, too. The yeast cleansing diet isn’t hard to do, after you get used to it, according to DH. You can do it any day of the year, even Thanksgiving. Try this page www.candidapage.com There’s a food list there that DH followed. He fixed himself up. CAD 2/94 LC 7/01 188/167/126

Thank you for your support it means a lot. Bethm — Some of God’s greatest gifts are unanswerd prayers. (Garth Brooks) homepage.mac.com/bsmorr/Photo 1        297/291.5/165

Response:

Nichole, Excuse my ignorance but I saw you mention you gave up cream cheese. I had asked you why in a previous post , so that question is answered. I’m wondering why you dont eat Diet Jello if it has no carbs? Is it because it whets your appetite for sweets? I’m new at this. Is there a list of things that people in here have found to be counter productive though it is considered legal food? Thanks so much, Laureen

Diet Jell-o is made with aspartame which may cause stalls. The calories in Jell-o are the Aspartame. BethM — Some of God’s greatest gifts are unanswerd prayers. (Garth Brooks) homepage.mac.com/bsmorr/Photo 1        297/291.5/165

Response:

Zoloft. I currently take 50 mg. … these type of meds hinder weightloss. Can you suggest any natural alternatives. Beth: For me, Zoloft not only stalled weight loss, but put pounds back on — almost daily! I switched to St. John’s Wort (900 mg. per day) with much success.  None of the side effects of Zoloft with all of the antidepressant effects. BarbF

Thabk You so much Barb. I appreciate you telling me that. You’re a sweetie. I’ll go get some next week once I wean myself off the Zoloft. Last time I went cold turkey and was sickeningly dizzy for weeks. BethM — Some of God’s greatest gifts are unanswerd prayers. (Garth Brooks) homepage.mac.com/bsmorr/Photo 1        297/291.5/165

Response:

{{{{{Beth}}}}} I’m sorry you feeling frustrated, but hang in there. — Polly

Thanks for the hug Polly. I am sending one right back to you {{{{{Polly}}}}}. BethM — Some of God’s greatest gifts are unanswerd prayers. (Garth Brooks) homepage.mac.com/bsmorr/Photo 1        297/291.5/165

Response:

Beth, I have the same problem but here’s the thing *INCREASE* your calories if you want to lose weight, I’m serious. I have the exact same problem as you and the *only* way that I actually lose weight is by eating at least 12x body weight (lbs) in calories and drinking tons of water. DO NOT LOWER YOUR CALORIES. It’s only bringing your body back to that "comfortable" state of starving which has not done anything but keep the pounds on all this time. Trust me, this is something I find myself struggling with daily.Don’t give up, just try to force yourself to eat more calories and see what happens. Good luck,if I can do it I know you can do it too Erika RollerGirl

Thanks for really understanding. You and the others make me feel so cared for. BethM — Some of God’s greatest gifts are unanswerd prayers. (Garth Brooks) homepage.mac.com/bsmorr/Photo 1        297/291.5/165

Response:

Beth, smack smack whats to give up. Its a healthy change

I know that’s why I won’t give up Atkins post a day or two here

Been there, done that, not doing it again are you working out

I do the eliptical trainer every other day and walk my dog. I am increasing slowly. did you consume some major salt intake prior to the 4 lb gain

 You betch’a lot’s of pepperoni. That and to much psyllium with too little water did a number on me.  I know we aren’t supposed to have processed foods, but, I wanted something at the movies and there were no Pork rinds to be found. there are so many factors

My hypothyroidism, possible yeast ,and on and on. are you measureing and counting foods if you have lowered your calorie, sometimes what we think is a cup and what is a cup is vastly different

I measure all the time, everytime. You are the person in control of your weightloss, no one else I know. JoKnows

Thanks Jo, BethM — Some of God’s greatest gifts are unanswerd prayers. (Garth Brooks) homepage.mac.com/bsmorr/Photo 1        297/291.5/165

Response:

Beth, when I started, I was being switched from Zoloft to Serzone to Celexa. Since sticking with LC for a few months, I didn’t need any of it.  I would get so down on myself I would try to punish myself like pulling out a handful of hair or pinching myself really hard because I was so mad at myself for being so fat and out of control.  You ‘re doing the right thing by going LC.  Some people use St. John’s Wort for depression, but I find that I don’t even need that.  Hang in there hon, we’re all here for you. — Serena 340/161/145 http://photos.yahoo.com/gweeble_1998

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am sort of giving up on the idea of weightloss. I will stay on Atkins just because it’s effects on my BG.  I have not lost anything, inches or lbs. since my first 12 days. I woke up this morning and found I gained 4 1/2 lbs in 2 days. I don’t get my TOM so that can’t be it. ( I did lower my calories 1900- 2000/day) I had to give up Chromium Picolinate because it made my BG rise. I did find that I must eat something ever 3-4 hours or my BG rises. My body thinks I am starving and makes my liver kick out more glycogen.  This all stems from years of starving my self. No Breakfasts. Ignoring hunger pangs. Being to lazy to get up and make something.  I actually have conditioned myself to enjoy the feeling of being hungry. Sure I get lightheaded but …. Hmmm.. I can’t remember any benefits of it. I used to do it because I didn’t want to be seen eating in front of my friends in school and I wanted to sleep in a little longer in the morning. I am not sure how to correct it. I will try to eat more calories from protain and fat. I will try Nina’s suggestion for 10x weight and I won’t weigh myself for 3 weeks. We’ll see where I stand then. I am trying to wean myself off from my Zoloft. I currently take 50 mg. The reason I take it is because of a natural tendency for despair. I get very negative about myself. With it I feel great. I just know it is said that these type of meds hinder weightloss. Can you suggest any natural alternatives. I have to go back to my DR. in December for a 3 month Hba1c. I will also ask him to test my thyroid to make sure my Levoxl is working enough. My body temp. is always 97.8 and hasn’t changed since beginning the Thyroid meds. After Thanksgiving I am going to try a Yeast cleansing diet to see if that is a cause of no weight loss. BethM — homepage.mac.com/bsmorr/Photo 1         297/291.5/165

Response:

Beth, when I started, I was being switched from Zoloft to Serzone to Celexa. Since sticking with LC for a few months, I didn’t need any of it.  I would get so down on myself I would try to punish myself like pulling out a handful of hair or pinching myself really hard because I was so mad at myself for being so fat and out of control.  You ‘re doing the right thing by going LC.  Some people use St. John’s Wort for depression, but I find that I don’t even need that.  Hang in there hon, we’re all here for you. — Serena 340/161/145

Thanks Serena. I would love to not need the stuff anymore. BethM — Some of God’s greatest gifts are unanswerd prayers. (Garth Brooks) homepage.mac.com/bsmorr/Photo 1        297/291.5/165

Response:

OK, I agree w/ all of the above, Beth , hang in there. Effexor has done wonders for me, I’ve lost a bunch on it.  Don’t stop taking your meds w/o the docs help.–he/she can help  you do the switch.  And no Starvation Mode for you girlie!!  Eat your meat!! hinesranch 226/174/135

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Beth, when I started, I was being switched from Zoloft to Serzone to Celexa. Since sticking with LC for a few months, I didn’t need any of it.  I would get so down on myself I would try to punish myself like pulling out a handful of hair or pinching myself really hard because I was so mad at myself for being so fat and out of control.  You ‘re doing the right thing by going LC.  Some people use St. John’s Wort for depression, but I find that I don’t even need that.  Hang in there hon, we’re all here for you. — Serena 340/161/145 Thanks Serena. I would love to not need the stuff anymore. BethM — Some of God’s greatest gifts are unanswerd prayers. (Garth Brooks) homepage.mac.com/bsmorr/Photo 1        297/291.5/165

Response:

OK, I agree w/ all of the above, Beth , hang in there. Effexor has done wonders for me, I’ve lost a bunch on it.  Don’t stop taking your meds w/o the docs help.–he/she can help  you do the switch.  And no Starvation Mode for you girlie!!  Eat your meat!! hinesranch 226/174/135

What is Effexor? Again I haven’t eaten much. I have been running aroungd all day and there is nothing made. I’m a bad girl. BethM — Some of God’s greatest gifts are unanswerd prayers. (Garth Brooks) homepage.mac.com/bsmorr/Photo 1        297/291.5/165

Response:

diet Jell-o does have carbs. For one serving, it is something like .06. Earlier in this WOE (woe is me? lol) I thought if it said zero, it meant zero.  Not so.  Check everything on www.fitday.com  Jell-O just ain’t free. I stopped eating it because it has aspartame, it was hindering the loss of my sweet tooth, and I want sweet things to be very special events.  I mean, I want to save them for very special events. I think my list in the thread called "Starting a 3-day meat fast" has the list of things that sometimes cause problems for people on LC.  Sorry for not answering the cream cheese question before.  Feel free to email me. — Nichole–in Montana^^^ http://profiles.yahoo.com/ms_fausey http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ASDLCMeetGreet Yahoo Messenger ID:  ms_fausey

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Nichole, Excuse my ignorance but I saw you mention you gave up cream cheese. I had asked you why in a previous post , so that question is answered. I’m wondering why you dont eat Diet Jello if it has no carbs? Is it because it whets your appetite for sweets? I’m new at this. Is there a list of things that people in here have found to be counter productive though it is considered legal food? Thanks so much, Laureen

Response:

I am sort of giving up on the idea of weightloss. I will stay on Atkins just because it’s effects on my BG.  I have not lost anything, inches or lbs. since my first 12 days. I woke up this morning and found I gained 4 1/2 lbs in 2 days. I don’t get my TOM so that can’t be it. ( I did lower my calories 1900- 2000/day)

Beth, it’s tough to stay on-WOE when the numbers don’t move, yet it’s good preparation for manitenance.  Nina’s advice is what worked for me even though I had trouble believing that 10x present weight would take weight off.  For me, it did.  I hope your metabolism catches up with your intentions or that your scales are broken. Hang in there, woman — it’s worth the fight! Cheers, Kay 232/144 (lowcarb since 98/12/26) maintenance since May 2000

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am sort of giving up on the idea of weightloss. I will stay on Atkins just because it’s effects on my BG.  I have not lost anything, inches or lbs. since my first 12 days. I woke up this morning and found I gained 4 1/2 lbs in 2 days. I don’t get my TOM so that can’t be it. ( I did lower my calories 1900- 2000/day) Beth, it’s tough to stay on-WOE when the numbers don’t move, yet it’s good preparation for manitenance.  Nina’s advice is what worked for me even though I had trouble believing that 10x present weight would take weight off.  For me, it did.  I hope your metabolism catches up with your intentions or that your scales are broken. Hang in there, woman — it’s worth the fight! Cheers, Kay

Kay, Thanks for the help. I don’t mind this WOE at all. I don’t miss anything. BethM 232/144 (lowcarb since 98/12/26) maintenance since May 2000

– Some of God’s greatest gifts are unanswerd prayers. (Garth Brooks) homepage.mac.com/bsmorr/Photo 1        297/291.5/165

Response:

Oh, Beth… I’m sorry you are feeling bad about your lack of loss in the last few weeks. If you posted what you are eating, I missed it.  I usually don’t read those posts.  I cut out cream and cream cheese, artificial sweetener in packet form and am trying to eliminate all preservatives from my diet.  I also cut out diet Jell-O.  I know this way of eating works for improvement of so many areas of one’s physical being, including weight loss.  I think that Dianne Schwartzbien said that some people may not lose for an entire year on low carb because they have been so depleted by years of low cal/low fat dieting. I think you are wise to continue on Low Carb to reap the medical benefits. I do believe if you experiment a bit you may find yourself losing the weight you wish to shed.  Hang in there, babydoll!  Bliss is just down the road a piece. — Nichole–in Montana^^^ http://profiles.yahoo.com/ms_fausey http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ASDLCMeetGreet Yahoo Messenger ID:  ms_fausey

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am sort of giving up on the idea of weightloss. I will stay on Atkins just because it’s effects on my BG.  I have not lost anything, inches or lbs. since my first 12 days. I woke up this morning and found I gained 4 1/2 lbs in 2 days. I don’t get my TOM so that can’t be it. ( I did lower my calories 1900- 2000/day) I had to give up Chromium Picolinate because it made my BG rise. I did find that I must eat something ever 3-4 hours or my BG rises. My body thinks I am starving and makes my liver kick out more glycogen.  This all stems from years of starving my self. No Breakfasts. Ignoring hunger pangs. Being to lazy to get up and make something.  I actually have conditioned myself to enjoy the feeling of being hungry. Sure I get lightheaded but …. Hmmm.. I can’t remember any benefits of it. I used to do it because I didn’t want to be seen eating in front of my friends in school and I wanted to sleep in a little longer in the morning. I am not sure how to correct it. I will try to eat more calories from protain and fat. I will try Nina’s suggestion for 10x weight and I won’t weigh myself for 3 weeks. We’ll see where I stand then. I am trying to wean myself off from my Zoloft. I currently take 50 mg. The reason I take it is because of a natural tendency for despair. I get very negative about myself. With it I feel great. I just know it is said that these type of meds hinder weightloss. Can you suggest any natural alternatives. I have to go back to my DR. in December for a 3 month Hba1c. I will also ask him to test my thyroid to make sure my Levoxl is working enough. My body temp. is always 97.8 and hasn’t changed since beginning the Thyroid meds. After Thanksgiving I am going to try a Yeast cleansing diet to see if that is a cause of no weight loss. BethM — homepage.mac.com/bsmorr/Photo 1         297/291.5/165

Response:

Zoloft. I currently take 50 mg. … these type of meds hinder weightloss. Can you suggest any natural alternatives.

Beth: For me, Zoloft not only stalled weight loss, but put pounds back on — almost daily! I switched to St. John’s Wort (900 mg. per day) with much success.  None of the side effects of Zoloft with all of the antidepressant effects. BarbF

Response:

Hi Beth, Sorry to hear about all the trouble you’ve been having. I can’t actually see your initial post. I just got here and I think it’s too old for me to see. If you’d like, reply with what you eat on a daily basis and I’ll try to help out… — Sal C. Author of, "The One Low Carb Diet That Always Works" www.simplifiedweightloss.com

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Oh, Beth… I’m sorry you are feeling bad about your lack of loss in the last few weeks. If you posted what you are eating, I missed it.  I usually don’t read those posts.  I cut out cream and cream cheese, artificial sweetener in packet form and am trying to eliminate all preservatives from my diet.  I also cut out diet Jell-O.  I know this way of eating works for improvement of so many areas of one’s physical being, including weight loss.  I think that Dianne Schwartzbien said that some people may not lose for an entire year on low carb because they have been so depleted by years of low cal/low fat dieting. I think you are wise to continue on Low Carb to reap the medical benefits. I do believe if you experiment a bit you may find yourself losing the weight you wish to shed.  Hang in there, babydoll!  Bliss is just down the road a piece. — Nichole–in Montana^^^ http://profiles.yahoo.com/ms_fausey http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ASDLCMeetGreet Yahoo Messenger ID:  ms_fausey I am sort of giving up on the idea of weightloss. I will stay on Atkins just because it’s effects on my BG.  I have not lost anything, inches or lbs. since my first 12 days. I woke up this morning and found I gained 4 1/2 lbs in 2 days. I don’t get my TOM so that can’t be it. ( I did lower my calories 1900- 2000/day) I had to give up Chromium Picolinate because it made my BG rise. I did find that I must eat something ever 3-4 hours or my BG rises. My body thinks I am starving and makes my liver kick out more glycogen.  This all stems from years of starving my self. No Breakfasts. Ignoring hunger pangs. Being to lazy to get up and make something.  I actually have conditioned myself to enjoy the feeling of being hungry. Sure I get lightheaded but …. Hmmm.. I can’t remember any benefits of it. I used to do it because I didn’t want to be seen eating in front of my friends in school and I wanted to sleep in a little longer in the morning. I am not sure how to correct it. I will try to eat more calories from protain and fat. I will try Nina’s suggestion for 10x weight and I won’t weigh myself for 3 weeks. We’ll see where I stand then. I am trying to wean myself off from my Zoloft. I currently take 50 mg. The reason I take it is because of a natural tendency for despair. I get very negative about myself. With it I feel great. I just know it is said that these type of meds hinder weightloss. Can you suggest any natural alternatives. I have to go back to my DR. in December for a 3 month Hba1c. I will also ask him to test my thyroid to make sure my Levoxl is working enough. My body temp. is always 97.8 and hasn’t changed since beginning the Thyroid meds. After Thanksgiving I am going to try a Yeast cleansing diet to see if that is a cause of no weight loss. BethM — homepage.mac.com/bsmorr/Photo 1         297/291.5/165

Response:

I am sort of giving up on the idea of weightloss. I will stay on Atkins just because it’s effects on my BG.  I have not lost anything, inches or lbs. since my first 12 days. I woke up this morning and found I gained 4 1/2 lbs in 2 days. I don’t get my TOM so that can’t be it. ( I did lower my calories 1900- 2000/day) This all stems from years of starving my self. No Breakfasts. Ignoring hunger pangs. Being to lazy to get up and make something.

Beth, I have the same problem but here’s the thing *INCREASE* your calories if you want to lose weight, I’m serious. I have the exact same problem as you and the *only* way that I actually lose weight is by eating at least 12x body weight (lbs) in calories and drinking tons of water. DO NOT LOWER YOUR CALORIES. It’s only bringing your body back to that "comfortable" state of starving which has not done anything but keep the pounds on all this time. Trust me, this is something I find myself struggling with daily.Don’t give up, just try to force yourself to eat more calories and see what happens. Good luck,if I can do it I know you can do it too Erika RollerGirl

Response:

{{{{{Beth}}}}} I’m sorry you feeling frustrated, but hang in there. — Polly (172/169/120) Start 11/01

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am sort of giving up on the idea of weightloss. I will stay on Atkins just because it’s effects on my BG.  I have not lost anything, inches or lbs. since my first 12 days. I woke up this morning and found I gained 4 1/2 lbs in 2 days. I don’t get my TOM so that can’t be it. ( I did lower my calories 1900- 2000/day) I had to give up Chromium Picolinate because it made my BG rise. I did find that I must eat something ever 3-4 hours or my BG rises. My body thinks I am starving and makes my liver kick out more glycogen.  This all stems from years of starving my self. No Breakfasts. Ignoring hunger pangs. Being to lazy to get up and make something.  I actually have conditioned myself to enjoy the feeling of being hungry. Sure I get lightheaded but …. Hmmm.. I can’t remember any benefits of it. I used to do it because I didn’t want to be seen eating in front of my friends in school and I wanted to sleep in a little longer in the morning. I am not sure how to correct it. I will try to eat more calories from protain and fat. I will try Nina’s suggestion for 10x weight and I won’t weigh myself for 3 weeks. We’ll see where I stand then. I am trying to wean myself off from my Zoloft. I currently take 50 mg. The reason I take it is because of a natural tendency for despair. I get very negative about myself. With it I feel great. I just know it is said that these type of meds hinder weightloss. Can you suggest any natural alternatives. I have to go back to my DR. in December for a 3 month Hba1c. I will also ask him to test my thyroid to make sure my Levoxl is working enough. My body temp. is always 97.8 and hasn’t changed since beginning the Thyroid meds. After Thanksgiving I am going to try a Yeast cleansing diet to see if that is a cause of no weight loss. BethM — homepage.mac.com/bsmorr/Photo 1         297/291.5/165

Response:

Hey, Beth, don’t give up. I do think it’s a good idea to give yourself a little break for awhile though, emotionally. Not weighing for awhile is a great way to take a break. But don’t give up entirely. You may still be in an adjustment phase. I think you should listen to Nina about the 10-12x your weight in calories. Nina really knows her stuff! I’m not sure a natural alternative to Zoloft wouldn’t have the same side effects. But you wouldn’t be able to control the dose as well. Maybe your doctor has another suggestion about a different medication. You may have hit on something about getting hungry. Can you work on spreading out your food over even more meals than you already do? Maybe you have something to go on about the yeast, too. The yeast cleansing diet isn’t hard to do, after you get used to it, according to DH. You can do it any day of the year, even Thanksgiving. Try this page www.candidapage.com There’s a food list there that DH followed. He fixed himself up. CAD 2/94 LC 7/01 188/167/126

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OH Beth, don’t give up…..((((((((hugs))))))))))  I know it can be discouraging at times.  I would listen to Nina about the calorie thing. Stay low carb, and drink water, stay off the scale.  Know that we are all here for you.  Hang in there !!! Sheila

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am sort of giving up on the idea of weightloss. I will stay on Atkins just because it’s effects on my BG.  I have not lost anything, inches or lbs. since my first 12 days. I woke up this morning and found I gained 4 1/2 lbs in 2 days. I don’t get my TOM so that can’t be it. ( I did lower my calories 1900- 2000/day) I had to give up Chromium Picolinate because it made my BG rise. I did find that I must eat something ever 3-4 hours or my BG rises. My body thinks I am starving and makes my liver kick out more glycogen.  This all stems from years of starving my self. No Breakfasts. Ignoring hunger pangs. Being to lazy to get up and make something.  I actually have conditioned myself to enjoy the feeling of being hungry. Sure I get lightheaded but …. Hmmm.. I can’t remember any benefits of it. I used to do it because I didn’t want to be seen eating in front of my friends in school and I wanted to sleep in a little longer in the morning. I am not sure how to correct it. I will try to eat more calories from protain and fat. I will try Nina’s suggestion for 10x weight and I won’t weigh myself for 3 weeks. We’ll see where I stand then. I am trying to wean myself off from my Zoloft. I currently take 50 mg. The reason I take it is because of a natural tendency for despair. I get very negative about myself. With it I feel great. I just know it is said that these type of meds hinder weightloss. Can you suggest any natural alternatives. I have to go back to my DR. in December for a 3 month Hba1c. I will also ask him to test my thyroid to make sure my Levoxl is working enough. My body temp. is always 97.8 and hasn’t changed since beginning the Thyroid meds. After Thanksgiving I am going to try a Yeast cleansing diet to see if that is a cause of no weight loss. BethM — homepage.mac.com/bsmorr/Photo 1         297/291.5/165

Response:

I am sort of giving up on the idea of weightloss. I will stay on Atkins just because it’s effects on my BG.  I have not lost anything, inches or lbs. since my first 12 days. I woke up this morning and found I gained 4 1/2 lbs in 2 days. I don’t get my TOM so that can’t be it. ( I did lower my calories 1900- 2000/day) I had to give up Chromium Picolinate because it made my BG rise. I did find that I must eat something ever 3-4 hours or my BG rises. My body thinks I am starving and makes my liver kick out more glycogen.  This all stems from years of starving my self. No Breakfasts. Ignoring hunger pangs. Being to lazy to get up and make something.  I actually have conditioned myself to enjoy the feeling of being hungry. Sure I get lightheaded but …. Hmmm.. I can’t remember any benefits of it. I used to do it because I didn’t want to be seen eating in front of my friends in school and I wanted to sleep in a little longer in the morning. I am not sure how to correct it. I will try to eat more calories from protain and fat. I will try Nina’s suggestion for 10x weight and I won’t weigh myself for 3 weeks. We’ll see where I stand then. I am trying to wean myself off from my Zoloft. I currently take 50 mg. The reason I take it is because of a natural tendency for despair. I get very negative about myself. With it I feel great. I just know it is said that these type of meds hinder weightloss. Can you suggest any natural alternatives. I have to go back to my DR. in December for a 3 month Hba1c. I will also ask him to test my thyroid to make sure my Levoxl is working enough. My body temp. is always 97.8 and hasn’t changed since beginning the Thyroid meds. After Thanksgiving I am going to try a Yeast cleansing diet to see if that is a cause of no weight loss. BethM — homepage.mac.com/bsmorr/Photo 1         297/291.5/165

Response:

Question:

Hi! After a series of severe migraines and several panic attacks related to work, I am now on indefinite medical leave. I’ve been on zoloft (50 mg) for about 6 months for depression, but I guess it’s not doing much. I’m seeing a counselor through the EAP who is working with me on relaxation techniques, and I have an appointment with the psychiatrist for Tues to hopefully find meds which will let me become more relaxed, sleep, and be able to face my co-workers and my 3rd grade students without getting anxious and having headaches, blood pressure surges, and panicy spells. I guess I’m just looking for reassurance. Also, is there anything specific I should tell/ask the psychiatrist? Apparently, I’m only going to see him for a short period, and my counselor will be monitoring my therapy long-term and will help decide when I should return to work. Right now, I’m hiding at home and trying to stay calm-even without going out, I average at least 1-2 panic attacks a day, and it seems that almost anything can spark one. Please tell me this gets better?

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi! After a series of severe migraines and several panic attacks related to work, I am now on indefinite medical leave. I’ve been on zoloft (50 mg) for about 6 months for depression, but I guess it’s not doing much. I’m seeing a counselor through the EAP who is working with me on relaxation techniques, and I have an appointment with the psychiatrist for Tues to hopefully find meds which will let me become more relaxed, sleep, and be able to face my co-workers and my 3rd grade students without getting anxious and having headaches, blood pressure surges, and panicy spells. I guess I’m just looking for reassurance. Also, is there anything specific I should tell/ask the psychiatrist? Apparently, I’m only going to see him for a short period, and my counselor will be monitoring my therapy long-term and will help decide when I should return to work. Right now, I’m hiding at home and trying to stay calm-even without going out, I average at least 1-2 panic attacks a day, and it seems that almost anything can spark one. Please tell me this gets better? Hi Donna, I’m Kelly…I also take 50mg. of Zoloft a day for Panic Disorder. I started having them 9 months ago.With me , Zoloft has helped alot. I usually only have 3 bad days a month, and I can control the panic then.I don’t do any type of therapy..in fact hav’nt even seen a doctor in the last 5 months. I have 1 week in a month that I feel pretty much back to normal. Maybe Zoloft is’nt the answer for you? It will get better once the Doctor finds something that will make it better!!Don’t give up, it might take time, but it will get better! Good luck to you, Kelly

– Posted via Talkway – http://www.talkway.com Exchange ideas on practically anything ™.

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi! After a series of severe migraines and several panic attacks related to work, I am now on indefinite medical leave. I’ve been on zoloft (50 mg) for about 6 months for depression, but I guess it’s not doing much. I’m seeing a counselor through the EAP who is working with me on relaxation techniques, and I have an appointment with the psychiatrist for Tues to hopefully find meds which will let me become more relaxed, sleep, and be able to face my co-workers and my 3rd grade students without getting anxious and having headaches, blood pressure surges, and panicy spells. I guess I’m just looking for reassurance. Also, is there anything specific I should tell/ask the psychiatrist? Apparently, I’m only going to see him for a short period, and my counselor will be monitoring my therapy long-term and will help decide when I should return to work. Right now, I’m hiding at home and trying to stay calm-even without going out, I average at least 1-2 panic attacks a day, and it seems that almost anything can spark one. Please tell me this gets better?

Hi Donna, Welcome to ASAP. Yes, it can get much better. You just have to give it some time.  I am surprised that your Zoloft dose has not been increased, especially that you say your depression hasn`t really been helped by it. Zoloft 50mgs is not a therapeutic dose( although some people have done well on this dose), therapeutic dose for Zoloft is 100mgs to 200mgs. Your psychiatrist will either increase the Zoloft or change your med. It sounds like you are doing the right things( seeing a pdoc and a counselor) that will get you back on your feet quickly.  Is your counselor just practicing relaxation techniques, or is it part of Cognitive Behavioral therapy? Cognitive Behavioral therapy is a effective therapy for anxiety disorders. It has helped me alot along with the Paxil I take. Take care. Jackie

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi! After a series of severe migraines and several panic attacks related to work, I am now on indefinite medical leave. I’ve been on zoloft (50 mg) for about 6 months for depression, but I guess it’s not doing much. I’m seeing a counselor through the EAP who is working with me on relaxation techniques, and I have an appointment with the psychiatrist for Tues to hopefully find meds which will let me become more relaxed, sleep, and be able to face my co-workers and my 3rd grade students without getting anxious and having headaches, blood pressure surges, and panicy spells. I guess I’m just looking for reassurance. Also, is there anything specific I should tell/ask the psychiatrist? Apparently, I’m only going to see him for a short period, and my counselor will be monitoring my therapy long-term and will help decide when I should return to work. Right now, I’m hiding at home and trying to stay calm-even without going out, I average at least 1-2 panic attacks a day, and it seems that almost anything can spark one. Please tell me this gets better?

I hope the psychiatrist is specialized in anxiety disorders.  You should be properly diagnosed and be prescribed some meds. Generally speaking *talk therapy*, however worthwhile for other reasons, is not a  good tool to get rid of anxiety symptoms quickly. The only therapy which can truthfully boast that is *Cognitive Behavioural Therapy* (CBT). I hope that’s what your *counselor* is doing with you. Ask  her/him. All this IMO and all that… ) A combination of meds and CBT is where the smart money is today and yes, it will get better. It may take some trial and error but hopefully you will be able to resume your *normal* life. Philip

Response:

Hi Donna, When you see your psychiatrist on Tuesday tell him you’re still having panic attacks. A change in meds should be able to block them. Either an increase in the Zoloft or the addition of a beno (Xanax, Klonopin, etc.) or possibly both. Strange you’re still on a rather low dose of Zoloft (it’s not blocking your panic attacks). Are you seeing the psychiatrist often enough so he can assess your response to treatment? I guess if it were me, I’d be seeing the psychiatrist more often for med monitoring and response to med treatment. I’ve never found counseling that useful or helpful, although I did like the support I got from it. What I found most useful was taking the right combo of  meds at the right dosages to block PAs and relapse of depression, and then facing my fears in small steps untill they were no longer fears. After the PAs are blocked, you can trying getting outside more. Also, SSRIs (such as the Zoloft you are on) are effective in preventing migraines (especially those related to stress and anxiety). My experience with panic disorder, agoraphobia, and intermittent depression has been that meds are the most helpful (I take Zoloft 150 mg/day and Klonopin 2 mg/day). I learned all the breathing  and relaxation techniques, jogging, spiritual gowth, self help books, diets, exercise, and all the rest. They all help, but I found I really needed the meds to get enough relief from my symptoms to get out in the world again, and back to work and functioning  in the world. Hope this helps, Chip Hi! After a series of severe migraines and several panic attacks related to work, I am now on indefinite medical leave. I’ve been on zoloft (50 mg) for about 6 months for depression, but I guess it’s not doing much. I’m seeing a counselor through the EAP who is working with me on relaxation techniques, and I have an appointment with the psychiatrist for Tues to hopefully find meds which will let me become more relaxed, sleep, and be able to face my co-workers and my 3rd grade students without getting anxious and having headaches, blood pressure surges, and panicy spells. I guess I’m just looking for reassurance. Also, is there anything specific I should tell/ask the psychiatrist? Apparently, I’m only going to see him for a short period, and my counselor will be monitoring my therapy long-term and will help decide when I should return to work. Right now, I’m hiding at home and trying to stay calm-even without going out, I average at least 1-2 panic attacks a day, and it seems that almost anything can spark one. Please tell me this gets better?

Response:

Question:

Effexor can cause terrible nausea. You need to take it on a full stomach, and with some time (a week?) it usually dissipates. Nausea can be a side effect of SSRI’s too. The reason is that there is seratonin receptors in the stomach, and having these stimulated can make you nauseaus. It almost always goes away. Talk to your doctor, though. They are the best to help you with this stuff.   Also, 50mg is a very low dose of effexor. They usually taper you up slowly to avoid side effects. But keep in mind, the average dose is around 225mg, so if 50 mg didn’t work before, that may be why. You have to give it time and taper up at your doctor’s discretion. Good luck.

Response:

I take Effexor and have not experienced that…but I know Effexor is one med that you must slowly increase your mg’s.  It may have been a shock to your body taking Effexor after being off of it. I think Effexor is a good med.  I hope you continue with it and it works. Chris G

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Damn.. I haven’t posted here in awhile, but I was just wondering if anyone has experienced something similar to what I just did.  A bit of history first..  I was in a very bad place a few months, mentally.  I don’t want to go into the whole thing, but I wasn’t interested in anything in life, to put it mildly.  No medication that they tried worked (Prozac, Effexor), so I stopped taking it. My condition slowly and eventually improved to the point where I can now funciton in life.  Something is still missing (which I don’t know if I’ll ever get back), but I am able to laugh and have a good time again. Lately, I’ve been getting an empty feeling that I had before again.. not as strong, but it’s still there.  So, today I decided to start taking Effexor again (I have a bag full of it left over).  I took 50mg about an hour ago.   While I was playing the game Half-Life, this overwhelming wave of nausea came over me.  I have never felt it that strongly before.. I went into my bathroom and dry heaved for about 5 minutes before the feeling passed (I haven’t eaten since yesterday – I would’ve definitely vomited if I had).   Well, the nausea is gone, and I hope it doesn’t come back (especially since I have a job interview in 45 minutes).  Has anybody else experienced anything like this with anti-depressants?  I don’t think the game helped, as it is a 3D shooter that can be nausea inducing. I’m kind of afraid to take it tomorrow, now.. Web site: http://www.blarghnet.com/supper "What do you do when your roots have dissolved and broken down  And the soil that you grew in when you were small  Has become nothing more than dirt  In some dirty town" – Marillion, "This Town"

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Question:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Okay, the fellows and the ladies that don’t want to read a discussion about PMS, periods, symptoms, etc, might want to pick now to get out. Alright, you’ve been warned! Hi Liz. I didn’t realize until very recently that I HAD PMS.  I find that as I get older, the symptoms, which never bothered me when I was younger that I am aware of are getting worse and so is cramping which also didn’t bug me. Well, when I was younger, PMS was still supposedly ‘all in our heads’, so though I had cramping and a fair bit of pain and got quite emotional, I didn’t know it was PMS. After I had my kids, I had my tubes tied.  That’s when I noticed it started getting worse.  They couldn’t do one of those nice little laparoscopic surgeries, too many adhesions and too much scar tissue (which the doc already knew about and he and I both concluded it was likely from the abuse. It was there when I had surgery when I was 19).  So, probably, I ended up adding to the scar tissue and adhesions by having the surgery.  It was my choice, though.  I couldn’t take the pill, and didn’t want to have 10 kids in 11 years.  ;-) As I get older, it does, definitely, get worse.  Matter of fact, I’m calling the doctor today, to make an appointment, to talk to him about it. My problem is I don’t realize I am PMSing until well into it….and if anyone says anything to me along the lines of ‘getting ready to start your period’ I growl at them until they go away.  i feel kind of…I don’t know. Hopeless. My husband has gotten smart about it.  Now he just says to me, "By the way, what’s the date?"  When I ask why, he just says, "Oh, just wondering."  He knows I’ll catch on, and I’ll laugh, too.  He’s good about stuff like that. If I’m particularly angry and stuff, he just goes bowling alot.  hehehe.  I guess he learned something in 23 years. I find the emotional effects of PMS do seem to get worse, as I’ve gotten into my mid to late 30’s.  I get so angry, over such stupid stuff.  I cry easily, but that’s something I have done anyway, since I got in touch with my emotions.  Never used to do either, get angry or cry, at all.  PMS makes it worse. Also, starting about 3 or 4 years ago, I get cyclical migraines.  They are different than the other migraines, in that they are more intense, don’t respond as well to medication, and last for days. My periods are quite regular, so I have the advantage of knowing when it’s coming, and knowing I’m PMSing, when my emotions become difficult to deal with.  I do tend to isolate myself, during that time, somewhat.  I don’t like to be hurtful to others, even those I don’t like.  It makes me feel like I am out of control and they know it.  I don’t like others seeing that, feels like they know my weakness, you know?  So learning to identify when I’m PMSing, and stopping myself from acting out at that time, has become important for me. I AM trying the b complex vitamins and rose something or other that is supposed to help.  Also, to be real honest, a stiff drink does wonders. I take a ’stress tab’ type of multivitamin, I think they help somewhat. Also, I take zoloft, for depression, and I find that does have an effect on the hopelessness and the anger.  Have you ever tried an anti-depressant? They help for more than just depression.  Zoloft is the third one, I’ve been on.  I couldn’t take prozac, it made me sick.  Paxil had some nasty ’sexual dysfunction’ side effects, but zoloft has worked wonders for me. But yeah, sometimes, a stiff drink works wonders. Do you find it got worse with you as you got older? Yes, yes, yes!!!! Not only has the PMS become more intense, but I have a lot more cramping and pain.  The cyclical migraines didn’t start until I was in my mid-30s.  On top of that, my periods have gotten longer, heavier and more painful.  7-9 days is toooo long!!  Last few months my cycle has been shortening, too, from my usual 28 days, to 21.  That is not fun!!! ;-P That’s why I decided I had better see the doctor.  I have heard that can be a sign of being pre-menopausal. (I can only hope!!!) rosee

I hope you don’t mind my asking something personal.  :) How old are you? Just curious. XO Rachel – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Liz http://www.geocities.com/wellesley/7368 A closed mind gathers no thoughts. -Anonymous friend — For more information about this posting service, contact: If you want an anonymous account, visit our sign-up page: http://asarian-host.org/emailform.html

Response:

Hi rosee My preference is for docphobia He sounds a nice guy. I am glad he allows someone in with you. I hate these exams and I usually close my eyes and try to imagine I am somewhere where there are palm trees, soft breezes and sweet music, Takes a bit of doing but I concentrate reeeeeal hard Trying it now can you hear the gears grinding hehehheee Ruth — Today, is the tomorrow, you worried about yesterday. Anonymous

| Hi Ruth! | | Now, you are the opposite of me, the crampier I am, the more irritable I am. | That may have something to do with the fact that I am a HUGE suck, when it | comes to pain.  It makes me more cranky, I think. | | | Menopause doesn’t look that bad, just now, even with the hot flashes! | <g | | I see the doc at the end of April, though, about the lengthening periods and | the shortening cycle. | | I start praying now, that I have the courage to go, and don’t chicken out | and cancel like I did the last time I made an appt for a physical.  I hate call that, | medicaphobia, docaphobia? *g*) doesn’t make it any easier. | | It’s so weird too.  I really like my doctor.  I really trust my doctor. | He’s been wonderful about my phobia, has really tried to be accomadating. | He lets my daughter or my husband come in with me and hold my hand. | | Well, at least, now, I get there, most of the time. | | | take care | rosee | |

| Hi rosee | | Yep I find as I get older the cramping gets worse and the | flow is heavier, although I put some of that down to the | fact that I am taking aspirin to thin my blood. I find that | if I am having bad cramps that I am not so irritable and the | times I am really irritable I am not in as much pain. | Like you I hope I do not have much longer to go before they | go away | | Ruth | | | — | Today, is the tomorrow, you worried about yesterday. | Anonymous | |

| | Okay, the fellows and the ladies that don’t want to read a | discussion about | | PMS, periods, symptoms, etc, might want to pick now to get | out. | | | | Alright, you’ve been warned! | | | | | | Hi Liz. | | | | I didn’t realize until very recently that I HAD PMS. I | find that as I get | | older, the symptoms, which never bothered me when I was | younger that I am | | aware | | of are getting worse and so is cramping which also | didn’t bug me. | | | | Well, when I was younger, PMS was still supposedly ‘all in | our heads’, so | | though I had cramping and a fair bit of pain and got quite | emotional, I | | didn’t know it was PMS. | | | | After I had my kids, I had my tubes tied.  That’s when I | noticed it started | | getting worse.  They couldn’t do one of those nice little | laparoscopic | | surgeries, too many adhesions and too much scar tissue | (which the doc | | already knew about and he and I both concluded it was | likely from the abuse. | | It was there when I had surgery when I was 19).  So, | probably, I ended up | | adding to the scar tissue and adhesions by having the | surgery.  It was my | | choice, though.  I couldn’t take the pill, and didn’t want | to have 10 kids | | in 11 years.  ;-) | | | | As I get older, it does, definitely, get worse.  Matter of | fact, I’m calling | | the doctor today, to make an appointment, to talk to him | about it. | | | | | | My problem is I don’t realize I am PMSing until well | into it….and if | | anyone | | says anything to me along the lines of ‘getting ready to | start your | | period’ I | | growl at them until they go away.  i feel kind of…I | don’t know. | | Hopeless. | | | | My husband has gotten smart about it.  Now he just says to | me, "By the way, | | what’s the date?"  When I ask why, he just says, "Oh, just | wondering."  He | | knows I’ll catch on, and I’ll laugh, too.  He’s good about | stuff like that. | | | | If I’m particularly angry and stuff, he just goes bowling | alot.  hehehe.  I | | guess he learned something in 23 years. | | | | I find the emotional effects of PMS do seem to get worse, | as I’ve gotten | | into my mid to late 30’s.  I get so angry, over such | stupid stuff.  I cry | | easily, but that’s something I have done anyway, since I | got in touch with | | my emotions.  Never used to do either, get angry or cry, | at all.  PMS makes | | it worse. | | | | Also, starting about 3 or 4 years ago, I get cyclical | migraines.  They are | | different than the other migraines, in that they are more | intense, don’t | | respond as well to medication, and last for days. | | | | My periods are quite regular, so I have the advantage of | knowing when it’s | | coming, and knowing I’m PMSing, when my emotions become | difficult to deal | | with.  I do tend to isolate myself, during that time, | somewhat.  I don’t | | like to be hurtful to others, even those I don’t like. It | makes me feel | | like I am out of control and they know it.  I don’t like | others seeing that, | | feels like they know my weakness, you know?  So learning | to identify when | | I’m PMSing, and stopping myself from acting out at that | time, has become | | important for me. | | | | | | I AM trying the b complex vitamins and rose something or | other that is | | supposed | | to help.  Also, to be real honest, a stiff drink does | wonders. | | | | I take a ’stress tab’ type of multivitamin, I think they | help somewhat. | | Also, I take zoloft, for depression, and I find that does | have an effect on | | the hopelessness and the anger.  Have you ever tried an | anti-depressant? | | They help for more than just depression.  Zoloft is the | third one, I’ve been | | on.  I couldn’t take prozac, it made me sick.  Paxil had | some nasty ’sexual | | dysfunction’ side effects, but zoloft has worked wonders | for me. | | | | But yeah, sometimes, a stiff drink works wonders. | | | | | | Do you find it got worse with you as you got older? | | | | Yes, yes, yes!!!! | | | | Not only has the PMS become more intense, but I have a lot | more cramping and | | pain.  The cyclical migraines didn’t start until I was in | my mid-30s.  On | | top of that, my periods have gotten longer, heavier and | more painful.  7-9 | | days is toooo long!!  Last few months my cycle has been | shortening, too, | | from my usual 28 days, to 21.  That is not fun!!! ;-P | | | | That’s why I decided I had better see the doctor.  I have | heard that can be | | a sign of being pre-menopausal. (I can only hope!!!) | | | | rosee | | | | | | | | | | Liz | | http://www.geocities.com/wellesley/7368 | | A closed mind gathers no thoughts. -Anonymous friend | | [snip] | | | | | | | | | — | For more information about this posting service, contact: | administrator | | If you want an anonymous account, visit our sign-up page: | | http://asarian-host.org/emailform.html | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |

Response:

Well, since you asked *G* here it is.  Now, this is herbal stuff and I know some people don’t trust it, but it is what I do.  First off, there are many symptoms attached to PMS and one herb may be more suited to YOUR symptoms than others. Secondly, one person can be more sensitive to specific herbs than others.  This is long, so I am cutting out the previous letters.  <extracted from Herbal Cures for common ailments Borage Oil and Black Currant Oil-  These are both excellent sources of gamma linoleic acid (GLA).  GLA is an effective anti-inflammatory agent that has no side effects.  Both of these oils are an effective treatment for PMS, but they don’t work instantaneously.  You must take one or the other treatment for 6-8 weeks before it takes effect and you notice any changes.  Black currant oil and borage oil also contain an abundant amount of GLA.   Mix teaspoon of borage oil in juice and drink it daily.  Dr. Weil recommend 500mg of black currant oil 2xdaily as the most economical form. BUCHU- This is an ecellent diuretic and is useful in relieving the bloating that is characteristic of PMS.   To make a cup of tea, mix 2 tsp of dried leaves per cup of boiling water.  Steep 20min and drink 3 cups per day.  Or take a teaspoon of tincture 3xdaily.  WARNING: PREGNANT AND NURSING WOMEN SHOULD NOT USE THIS HERB. DANDELION-  This is another diuretic that helps relieve that uncomfortable, bloated feeling.   Make a tea with an ounce of dried leaves per cup of boiling water and steep 10min.  Drink 3 cups per day.  Or take 2tsp of tincture 3xdaily.  In addition, you can add dandelion greens to a salad, but don’t rely on greens alone to counteract bloating.  Combine them with tea or tincture for maximum effectiveness.      WARNING:  PREGNANT AND NURSING WOMEN SHOULD NOT USE THIS HERB. DONG QUAI-  Just as this traditional Chinese herb is useful for menopause, it can relieve the unpleasant symptoms of PMS.  It produces a balancing effect on estrogen activity and a tonic effect on the uterus.  It is great for PMS and menstrual cramps.  The herb also happens to be rich in vitamins A, B12, and E. JUNIPER-  Ass this herb to your list of diuretics.  It may come in handy for the bloating period.  To make a tea, place a tsp of bruised juniper berries in a cup of boiling water and steep for 15-20min.  Drink ONLY 2 cups a day. WARNING:  PREGNANT AND NURSING WOMEN SHOULD NOT USE THIS HERB. MOTHERWORT-  This is excellent for cramps, as well as the irritability and headaches associated with PMS.    Make a tea with 2 tsp of dried herb in a cup of boiling water and steep for 10min.  Or mix 10-15 drops of extract in warm liquid and drink 3xday. PARSLEY-Here’s a diuretic that will also leave you with fresh breath.  Mix 2 tsp of dried leaves in a cup of boiling water and steep for 15min.  Drink 3xday. WARNING:  PREGNANT AND NURSING WOMEN SHOULD NOT USE THIS HERB. RED RASPBERRY LEAVES-  This is an excellent anti-spasmodic that alleviates cramps.   One tsp steep 10 min in a cup of boiling water makes an excellent tea.  Drink one cup a day. THIS HERB IS GREAT FOR NURSING WOMEN. Also, not in this book, is Nettle Tea.  It is a equalizer.  It will equalize the amounts of progesterone and estrogen in your system, which, I believe, is a cause of PMS.  It will also equalize blood pressure.  I take the capsule, 2 capsule 2-3xday.  You can also drink the tea.  Steep 2 tsp to a cup of boiling water 10-15 min and drink 2-3xday. Hope you haven’t fallen asleep already.  I also hope this is useful. Take care, Phoenix — And she rose from the ashes of her past… http://people.delphi.com/sphynx/sfs/index.htm ICQ 24933714            xgrmpflmprxyzzz 87%dragon!  Fanatic When replying, "nospam" must be removed from this address.

Response:

Just a little bit to add if you dont mind. I work in a coed atmosphere. Instead of saying p.m.s or its that time, we say" the painters are coming" lookout!!!!! In Ojibway Fist nations,  that time is refereed to as  the "moon time" Dar – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Okay, the fellows and the ladies that don’t want to read a discussion about PMS, periods, symptoms, etc, might want to pick now to get out. Alright, you’ve been warned! Hi Liz. I didn’t realize until very recently that I HAD PMS.  I find that as I get older, the symptoms, which never bothered me when I was younger that I am aware of are getting worse and so is cramping which also didn’t bug me. Well, when I was younger, PMS was still supposedly ‘all in our heads’, so though I had cramping and a fair bit of pain and got quite emotional, I didn’t know it was PMS. After I had my kids, I had my tubes tied.  That’s when I noticed it started getting worse.  They couldn’t do one of those nice little laparoscopic surgeries, too many adhesions and too much scar tissue (which the doc already knew about and he and I both concluded it was likely from the abuse. It was there when I had surgery when I was 19).  So, probably, I ended up adding to the scar tissue and adhesions by having the surgery.  It was my choice, though.  I couldn’t take the pill, and didn’t want to have 10 kids in 11 years.  ;-) As I get older, it does, definitely, get worse.  Matter of fact, I’m calling the doctor today, to make an appointment, to talk to him about it. My problem is I don’t realize I am PMSing until well into it….and if anyone says anything to me along the lines of ‘getting ready to start your period’ I growl at them until they go away.  i feel kind of…I don’t know. Hopeless. My husband has gotten smart about it.  Now he just says to me, "By the way, what’s the date?"  When I ask why, he just says, "Oh, just wondering."  He knows I’ll catch on, and I’ll laugh, too.  He’s good about stuff like that. If I’m particularly angry and stuff, he just goes bowling alot.  hehehe.  I guess he learned something in 23 years. I find the emotional effects of PMS do seem to get worse, as I’ve gotten into my mid to late 30’s.  I get so angry, over such stupid stuff.  I cry easily, but that’s something I have done anyway, since I got in touch with my emotions.  Never used to do either, get angry or cry, at all.  PMS makes it worse. Also, starting about 3 or 4 years ago, I get cyclical migraines.  They are different than the other migraines, in that they are more intense, don’t respond as well to medication, and last for days. My periods are quite regular, so I have the advantage of knowing when it’s coming, and knowing I’m PMSing, when my emotions become difficult to deal with.  I do tend to isolate myself, during that time, somewhat.  I don’t like to be hurtful to others, even those I don’t like.  It makes me feel like I am out of control and they know it.  I don’t like others seeing that, feels like they know my weakness, you know?  So learning to identify when I’m PMSing, and stopping myself from acting out at that time, has become important for me. I AM trying the b complex vitamins and rose something or other that is supposed to help.  Also, to be real honest, a stiff drink does wonders. I take a ’stress tab’ type of multivitamin, I think they help somewhat. Also, I take zoloft, for depression, and I find that does have an effect on the hopelessness and the anger.  Have you ever tried an anti-depressant? They help for more than just depression.  Zoloft is the third one, I’ve been on.  I couldn’t take prozac, it made me sick.  Paxil had some nasty ’sexual dysfunction’ side effects, but zoloft has worked wonders for me. But yeah, sometimes, a stiff drink works wonders. Do you find it got worse with you as you got older? Yes, yes, yes!!!! Not only has the PMS become more intense, but I have a lot more cramping and pain.  The cyclical migraines didn’t start until I was in my mid-30s.  On top of that, my periods have gotten longer, heavier and more painful.  7-9 days is toooo long!!  Last few months my cycle has been shortening, too, from my usual 28 days, to 21.  That is not fun!!! ;-P That’s why I decided I had better see the doctor.  I have heard that can be a sign of being pre-menopausal. (I can only hope!!!) rosee Liz http://www.geocities.com/wellesley/7368 A closed mind gathers no thoughts. -Anonymous friend — For more information about this posting service, contact: If you want an anonymous account, visit our sign-up page: http://asarian-host.org/emailform.html

Response:

Hi rosee Yep I find as I get older the cramping gets worse and the flow is heavier, although I put some of that down to the fact that I am taking aspirin to thin my blood. I find that if I am having bad cramps that I am not so irritable and the times I am really irritable I am not in as much pain. Like you I hope I do not have much longer to go before they go away Ruth — Today, is the tomorrow, you worried about yesterday. Anonymous

| Okay, the fellows and the ladies that don’t want to read a discussion about | PMS, periods, symptoms, etc, might want to pick now to get out. | | Alright, you’ve been warned! | | | Hi Liz. |

| I didn’t realize until very recently that I HAD PMS.  I find that as I get | older, the symptoms, which never bothered me when I was younger that I am | aware | of are getting worse and so is cramping which also didn’t bug me. | | Well, when I was younger, PMS was still supposedly ‘all in our heads’, so | though I had cramping and a fair bit of pain and got quite emotional, I | didn’t know it was PMS. | | After I had my kids, I had my tubes tied.  That’s when I noticed it started | getting worse.  They couldn’t do one of those nice little laparoscopic | surgeries, too many adhesions and too much scar tissue (which the doc | already knew about and he and I both concluded it was likely from the abuse. | It was there when I had surgery when I was 19).  So, probably, I ended up | adding to the scar tissue and adhesions by having the surgery.  It was my | choice, though.  I couldn’t take the pill, and didn’t want to have 10 kids | in 11 years.  ;-) | | As I get older, it does, definitely, get worse.  Matter of fact, I’m calling | the doctor today, to make an appointment, to talk to him about it. | | | My problem is I don’t realize I am PMSing until well into it….and if | anyone | says anything to me along the lines of ‘getting ready to start your | period’ I | growl at them until they go away.  i feel kind of…I don’t know. | Hopeless. | | My husband has gotten smart about it.  Now he just says to me, "By the way, | what’s the date?"  When I ask why, he just says, "Oh, just wondering."  He | knows I’ll catch on, and I’ll laugh, too.  He’s good about stuff like that. | | If I’m particularly angry and stuff, he just goes bowling alot.  hehehe.  I | guess he learned something in 23 years. | | I find the emotional effects of PMS do seem to get worse, as I’ve gotten | into my mid to late 30’s.  I get so angry, over such stupid stuff.  I cry | easily, but that’s something I have done anyway, since I got in touch with | my emotions.  Never used to do either, get angry or cry, at all.  PMS makes | it worse. | | Also, starting about 3 or 4 years ago, I get cyclical migraines.  They are | different than the other migraines, in that they are more intense, don’t | respond as well to medication, and last for days. | | My periods are quite regular, so I have the advantage of knowing when it’s | coming, and knowing I’m PMSing, when my emotions become difficult to deal | with.  I do tend to isolate myself, during that time, somewhat.  I don’t | like to be hurtful to others, even those I don’t like.  It makes me feel | like I am out of control and they know it.  I don’t like others seeing that, | feels like they know my weakness, you know?  So learning to identify when | I’m PMSing, and stopping myself from acting out at that time, has become | important for me. | | | I AM trying the b complex vitamins and rose something or other that is | supposed | to help.  Also, to be real honest, a stiff drink does wonders. | | I take a ’stress tab’ type of multivitamin, I think they help somewhat. | Also, I take zoloft, for depression, and I find that does have an effect on | the hopelessness and the anger.  Have you ever tried an anti-depressant? | They help for more than just depression.  Zoloft is the third one, I’ve been | on.  I couldn’t take prozac, it made me sick.  Paxil had some nasty ’sexual | dysfunction’ side effects, but zoloft has worked wonders for me. | | But yeah, sometimes, a stiff drink works wonders. | | | Do you find it got worse with you as you got older? | | Yes, yes, yes!!!! | | Not only has the PMS become more intense, but I have a lot more cramping and | pain.  The cyclical migraines didn’t start until I was in my mid-30s.  On | top of that, my periods have gotten longer, heavier and more painful.  7-9 | days is toooo long!!  Last few months my cycle has been shortening, too, | from my usual 28 days, to 21.  That is not fun!!! ;-P | | That’s why I decided I had better see the doctor.  I have heard that can be | a sign of being pre-menopausal. (I can only hope!!!) | | rosee | | | | | Liz | http://www.geocities.com/wellesley/7368 | A closed mind gathers no thoughts. -Anonymous friend | | | | | | — | For more information about this posting service, contact: | administrator | | If you want an anonymous account, visit our sign-up page: | | http://asarian-host.org/emailform.html

Response:

hehe rosee, i’m sure the guys appreciated the warning i just had my first PMS 2 weeks ago. (and i’m 32!!) all those years that i had PCOS undiagnosed, and before that even, never had a "normal" period. (never had enough estrogen.) i thought i was just blessed! 3 days light spotting, no cramps, came around every 6 to 9 weeks, sometimes longer. then my endocrinologist and gyn. started me on BC pills, ones with a "high estrogen producing effect." at first all i had was that breakthrough bleeding, then spotting, but no periods. then 2 weeks ago … i had a period! and i got all bloated up, i whined and cried for 2 days, and i had the nastiest bouts of cramps. YECCCCH!! first thing i said when i saw the endocrinologist last week was "thanks a LOT! PPPP~~~" he laughed, he said most of his patients say the same thing, hehe. at least i don’t get angry or bitchy *knock wood* just cry a lot. well, if this makes me fertile in the long run, i guess it’s worth it. ironic that i have to be on birth control for a year, to become fertile. but i gotta say, there are benefits to androgen and testosterone except for leg shaving, that was a real bitch. my leg and arm hair has gotten much lighter and very fine, the dr. says that’s how they can follow my hormonal progress. so, i shave less, i bleed more peace and laughter, karmagrrl

Response:

I can identify with you PMS problems.  As I told Liz, if anyone wants some herbal remedies for PMS I’ll do my best to email em to you, or post them if no one minds.  I had found (when I was having periods) that these worked for me, in varying degrees, and it shouldn’t hurt to try them.  Let me know if you want to take me up on the offer. LIZ! (IF you are reading this) If I missed a post from you saying you would like to try it, I apologize, just email me the request again, please.  I am still having ISP problems. Take care, Phoenix – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Okay, the fellows and the ladies that don’t want to read a discussion about PMS, periods, symptoms, etc, might want to pick now to get out. Alright, you’ve been warned! Hi Liz. I didn’t realize until very recently that I HAD PMS.  I find that as I get older, the symptoms, which never bothered me when I was younger that I am aware of are getting worse and so is cramping which also didn’t bug me. Well, when I was younger, PMS was still supposedly ‘all in our heads’, so though I had cramping and a fair bit of pain and got quite emotional, I didn’t know it was PMS. After I had my kids, I had my tubes tied.  That’s when I noticed it started getting worse.  They couldn’t do one of those nice little laparoscopic surgeries, too many adhesions and too much scar tissue (which the doc already knew about and he and I both concluded it was likely from the abuse. It was there when I had surgery when I was 19).  So, probably, I ended up adding to the scar tissue and adhesions by having the surgery.  It was my choice, though.  I couldn’t take the pill, and didn’t want to have 10 kids in 11 years.  ;-) As I get older, it does, definitely, get worse.  Matter of fact, I’m calling the doctor today, to make an appointment, to talk to him about it. My problem is I don’t realize I am PMSing until well into it….and if anyone says anything to me along the lines of ‘getting ready to start your period’ I growl at them until they go away.  i feel kind of…I don’t know. Hopeless. My husband has gotten smart about it.  Now he just says to me, "By the way, what’s the date?"  When I ask why, he just says, "Oh, just wondering."  He knows I’ll catch on, and I’ll laugh, too.  He’s good about stuff like that. If I’m particularly angry and stuff, he just goes bowling alot.  hehehe.  I guess he learned something in 23 years. I find the emotional effects of PMS do seem to get worse, as I’ve gotten into my mid to late 30’s.  I get so angry, over such stupid stuff.  I cry easily, but that’s something I have done anyway, since I got in touch with my emotions.  Never used to do either, get angry or cry, at all.  PMS makes it worse. Also, starting about 3 or 4 years ago, I get cyclical migraines.  They are different than the other migraines, in that they are more intense, don’t respond as well to medication, and last for days. My periods are quite regular, so I have the advantage of knowing when it’s coming, and knowing I’m PMSing, when my emotions become difficult to deal with.  I do tend to isolate myself, during that time, somewhat.  I don’t like to be hurtful to others, even those I don’t like.  It makes me feel like I am out of control and they know it.  I don’t like others seeing that, feels like they know my weakness, you know?  So learning to identify when I’m PMSing, and stopping myself from acting out at that time, has become important for me. I AM trying the b complex vitamins and rose something or other that is supposed to help.  Also, to be real honest, a stiff drink does wonders. I take a ’stress tab’ type of multivitamin, I think they help somewhat. Also, I take zoloft, for depression, and I find that does have an effect on the hopelessness and the anger.  Have you ever tried an anti-depressant? They help for more than just depression.  Zoloft is the third one, I’ve been on.  I couldn’t take prozac, it made me sick.  Paxil had some nasty ’sexual dysfunction’ side effects, but zoloft has worked wonders for me. But yeah, sometimes, a stiff drink works wonders. Do you find it got worse with you as you got older? Yes, yes, yes!!!! Not only has the PMS become more intense, but I have a lot more cramping and pain.  The cyclical migraines didn’t start until I was in my mid-30s.  On top of that, my periods have gotten longer, heavier and more painful.  7-9 days is toooo long!!  Last few months my cycle has been shortening, too, from my usual 28 days, to 21.  That is not fun!!! ;-P That’s why I decided I had better see the doctor.  I have heard that can be a sign of being pre-menopausal. (I can only hope!!!) rosee Liz http://www.geocities.com/wellesley/7368 A closed mind gathers no thoughts. -Anonymous friend — For more information about this posting service, contact: If you want an anonymous account, visit our sign-up page: http://asarian-host.org/emailform.html

– And she rose from the ashes of her past… http://people.delphi.com/sphynx/sfs/index.htm ICQ 24933714            xgrmpflmprxyzzz 87%dragon!  Fanatic When replying, "nospam" must be removed from this address.

Response:

Question:

Erica– I am also Bulimiarexic…and 15 and on Zoloft and have not had my period for a year and a half. I don’t know about you but my Zoloft doesn’t seem to be helping at all. I think I might start on something different. I am on 175mgs a day now. How much are you on?? I haven’t had birth control pills suggested to me to restore my period but I wouldn’t want them. I hated my period. It is such a mess and a pain. This doesn’t mean I’m afraid of it I just like not having to deal with it.

Response:

Laurie asked: Should I be worried though? I want my "good enough" to not be life-threatening, you know? Am I doing ANYTHING good for myself??

Laurie, You are doing some good things for yourself.  You are taking classes.  You are searching for answers in your life.  You are writing. If you want your "good enough" to not be life threatening you have got to start eating more. Straight out spoilered for dead on painful stuff. s   p     o       i         l           e             r Laurie, if you don’t have periods you are threatening the life of any children you might have in the future.  What does that mean?  It means that someday when your arms ache to hold a baby you won’t be able to.  It means that someday when you share your life with someone and you want your body to hold life inside it, to let it grow inside you, to nourish it from yourself you won’t be able to.  So Laurie, ask yourself.  Is it "good enough"? Mary

Response:

Oui, my doctor wanted me to take BC pills (i’m 16, a virgin) to get my period again, I said NO WAY. Just the thought of it makes me feel ‘unclean’ (is that weird?). I am taking Zoloft, though. I have had my first two panic attacks ON it, I never had one when I wasn’t taking it… Odd… I wouold appreciate feedback from other bulimarexics taking Zoloft- side effects, etc. Merci beaucuop. Erica

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -for awhile i was on birth control pills to "motivate" my body to have a period. has anyone else done this?  i hated taking them (hated having a period) and i don’t need them now (for either of their purposes!)  but, i’m sooooo scared of getting osteoporosis that i was very good about taking them–i hate taking meds. just an fyi for the general public:  i’m taking a science of nutrition class (which i don’t suggest for anyone struggling.  it’s been tough disassociating the class from my ed…but that’s another subject).  anyway, we just finished up talking about calcuim.  the worst kind of supplements you can take are oyster shell–they’re literally ground up oyster shells, so there’s no way to know exactly what’s in them.  the best (according to my prof) are tums–they’re the cheapest and absorb the easiest.  everyone happy with their nutrition lesson for the day?

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Why has the nutrition class been triggering? (besides the obvious answer that it’s all about food) Sarah – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – for awhile i was on birth control pills to "motivate" my body to have a period. has anyone else done this?  i hated taking them (hated having a period) and i don’t need them now (for either of their purposes!)  but, i’m sooooo scared of getting osteoporosis that i was very good about taking them–i hate taking meds. just an fyi for the general public:  i’m taking a science of nutrition class (which i don’t suggest for anyone struggling.  it’s been tough disassociating the class from my ed…but that’s another subject).  anyway, we just finished up talking about calcuim.  the worst kind of supplements you can take are oyster shell–they’re literally ground up oyster shells, so there’s no way to know exactly what’s in them.  the best (according to my prof) are tums–they’re the cheapest and absorb the easiest.  everyone happy with their nutrition lesson for the day?

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for awhile i was on birth control pills to "motivate" my body to have a period.  has anyone else done this?  i hated taking them (hated having a period) and i don’t need them now (for either of their purposes!)  but, i’m sooooo scared of getting osteoporosis that i was very good about taking them–i hate taking meds. just an fyi for the general public:  i’m taking a science of nutrition class (which i don’t suggest for anyone struggling.  it’s been tough disassociating the class from my ed…but that’s another subject).  anyway, we just finished up talking about calcuim.  the worst kind of supplements you can take are oyster shell–they’re literally ground up oyster shells, so there’s no way to know exactly what’s in them.  the best (according to my prof) are tums–they’re the cheapest and absorb the easiest.  everyone happy with their nutrition lesson for the day?

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Erica, This may be a little late, but maybe you should reconsider not wanting to take BC pills.  I agree with you; it’s hard to get over the "unclean" feeling (I’m a virgin too), but I looked at it as just medicine.  I didn’t take it as birth control, but to get my period again, so is it really any different from any other kind of prescription?  I’m off BC now because I put on enough weight to get my periods on my own, but I went a year and a half without getting a period…I was actually happy to gat it at that point, with or without BC.  Just my two cents, Ophelia Oui, my doctor wanted me to take BC pills (i’m 16, a virgin) to get my period again, I said NO WAY. Just the thought of it makes me feel ‘unclean’ (is that weird?). I am taking Zoloft, though. I have had my first two panic attacks ON it, I never had one when I wasn’t taking it… Odd… I wouold appreciate feedback from other bulimarexics taking Zoloft- side effects, etc. Merci beaucuop. Erica

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Hi guys. I’ll spoiler this for food mentions and health issue mentions .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. Ok. I’m underweight. Given. I haven’t had a period in two and half years. Given.

you don’t have enough of anything in your diet, then. given. if you did, you might be underweight, but you’d have your period. so you’re missing major things. While I don’t eat very much, the things I eat have good stuff in it

you know what? all food is *good stuff* all food has *good stuff* in it. it’s a fuel. that’s all food is. it’s been politicised to hell, but it’s just a fuel.  (I think) Broccolli, Bananas, Nonfat yogurts, etc.,  So that I think I am getting a reasonable amount of calcium and potassium. I also take a children’s multivitamin.

are you a child, laurie? you should be taking a woman’s multivitamin. preferably several of them, because you’re not going to get the right mix in any one; thye’re just not marketed for people who get none. Here’s my question: If I eat TONS of calcium in the things I eat, tons of potassium, etc., can I still get osteoporosis?

yes Can I still be susceptible to heart attack?

yes But the things I eat (habitually, same things, every day, we all know how the story goes) are healthy and have good vitamins.

as opposed to those vitamins that have been taken over by evil?  Should I be worried though? I want my "good enough" to not be life-threatening, you know? Am I doing ANYTHING good for myself??

taking vitamins is a good step. it’s not enough. and you do *not* eat enough. you do *not* get enough of anything, from Cals to vitamin b to sodium. and it will be life-endangering. I hope I haven’t triggered anyone…

you spoilered it. let people take responsibility for themselves. if you read something spoilered for talk of food, you accepted the chance it might trigger you. ased in general probably triggers people somewhat. that’s a choice people make for themselves, not for others. gus — the unconscious, it seems, will not let go of its hoard. the past comes with us and occasionally kidnaps the present, so that the distinctions we depend on for safety, for sanity, disappear. past. present. future. when this happens, we are no longer sure who we are, or perhaps we can no longer pretend to be sure who we are. if time is a river then we shall all meet death by water.                                          -jeanette winterson "gut symmetries" — For more information about this service, send e-mail to:

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My dietitian used to say, "yes, you eat very healthy foods….but the problem is that you’re not eating ENOUGH!" Yes, you should be concerned that osteoporosis is lurking around the corner for you…. Yes, you should be concerned that what you are doing to your body, an act of omission, rather than comission, is going to have long-term effects. Last year, I broke a toe when I bashed into a bookcase.  When my foot was x-rayed, the doctor talked a lot about "osteopenia," which is the precursor to osteoporosis. Not having periods is not a good thing. A friend of mine, who is severely anorexic, is currently taking Fosamax (sp?) to try to counteract the effects of her long-term illness.   She’s already experienced broken ribs and a broken hip….and she is only in her mid-thirties.  The meds will probably only stave off the osteoporosis for a brief time…. Even though right now, it doesn’t feel that way, Laurie, you ARE doing damage to your body which can have long-term effects.  My dietitian  also used to say, "nothing in nutrition works fast. "  What was being said was that even though I might feel perfectly fine, even though I was eating "healthy" foods, I was still eating at a subnormal level and was not giving myself the nutrition which was needed….and somewhere down the road, years later, I might pay the price. Think about it… –Connie

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Hi Laurie, One thing I’d like to point out in your response is your reference to your eating "good" food.  I hate to say it but there is no such thing as good or bad food.  Healthy eating involves all different types of food and when certain foods are restricted are cut out, your eating is no longer "healthy" (Sorry!) In response to your question about osteoporosis and heart attacks.  Yes, you are definitely at risk.  For one thing, your not menstruating so this means your body is not making estrogen which is essential for the absorption of Calcium.  Therefore it doesn’t matter really how much calcium rich food you are taking it, it won’t be absorbed properly.  Also, the minerals like potassium and magnesium which can affect the heart are also absorbed through the help of other nutrients so if you aren’t eating a balanced diet you won’t have normal levels of these important electrolytes.  (my doctor has pounded this info. into my head, so I know what I’m talking about) Anyway hope this helps. Kathryn K.

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Howdy group.  I was just diagnosed with cervical dystonia last week. While I have had symptoms for YEARS all of the doctors I went to either could find nothing wrong or told me to "relax"! I am so happy to find this news group on here.  A big relief.  I did find a fantastic Neurologist who believed me and understood exactly what I was talking about.  We are currently trying a variety of oral medications to see if we can control it.  Of course as all of you know, with these types of medications come side-effects.  After being on one medication for 2 days, my husband said, "you don’t need to be on that, it will make you crazy." I don’t think my husband is understanding what dystonia is all about quite yet.  I am looking for some encouragement and am hoping to find it here. Thanks for letting me get a little bit off my mind…I hope I can be of help to other people here as well. Connie

Welcome to A.S.D., Connie!!!   We are so happy to meet you!  I am hoping that some of our ‘dystonia spouses’ will respond to your husband and his concerns.  We have found that significant others in our lifes often have a hard time watching us go through this process.  Connie, please know that all of us here at the n/g are more than eager to lend a listening ear, commiserate, and even laugh occasionally!!!  Please keep in touch!! TTYS, MB

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Howdy group.  I was just diagnosed with cervical dystonia last week. While I have had symptoms for YEARS all of the doctors I went to either could find nothing wrong or told me to "relax"! I am so happy to find this news group on here.  A big relief.  I did find a fantastic Neurologist who believed me and understood exactly what I was talking about.  We are currently trying a variety of oral medications to see if we can control it.  Of course as all of you know, with these types of medications come side-effects.  After being on one medication for 2 days, my husband said, "you don’t need to be on that, it will make you crazy." I don’t think my husband is understanding what dystonia is all about quite yet.  I am looking for some encouragement and am hoping to find it here. Thanks for letting me get a little bit off my mind…I hope I can be of help to other people here as well. Connie

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Howdy group.  I was just diagnosed with cervical dystonia last week. While I have had symptoms for YEARS all of the doctors I went to either could find nothing wrong or told me to "relax"! I am so happy to find this news group on here.  A big relief.  I did find a fantastic Neurologist who believed me and understood exactly what I was talking about.  We are currently trying a variety of oral medications to see if we can control it.  Of course as all of you know, with these types of medications come side-effects.  After being on one medication for 2 days, my husband said, "you don’t need to be on that, it will make you crazy." I don’t think my husband is understanding what dystonia is all about quite yet.  I am looking for some encouragement and am hoping to find it here. Thanks for letting me get a little bit off my mind…I hope I can be of help to other people here as well. Connie Welcome to A.S.D., Connie!!! We are so happy to meet you!  I am hoping that some of our ‘dystonia spouses’ will respond to your husband and his concerns.  We have found that significant others in our lifes often have a hard time watching us go through this process.  Connie, please know that all of us here at the n/g are more than eager to lend a listening ear, commiserate, and even laugh occasionally!!!  Please keep in touch!! TTYS, MB

Ok MB…I have been extremely busy the last month, but i have been lurking:)  so seeing this post I had to reply..Lacking the time to form a newsgroup for us sig/others & spouses i have formed an email chain. anyone who wishs to share in our letters please feel free to email me. It is indeed very hard to not be able to "fix " my wife and make everything ok.  We go through life one day at a time and I try to stay with what I am powerful over and accept what I am powerless to change. Not my words…they come from a 12 step group. but it helps me to cope.it also helps to keep up with the newsgroup and share with you all when I can.  It also makes me feel good to see that this group has helped my wife Aimee where I have not been able to, and I thank you all for that…:) John F

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Howdy group.  I was just diagnosed with cervical dystonia last week. While I have had symptoms for YEARS all of the doctors I went to either could find nothing wrong or told me to "relax"!

Hey I too have been there. After seeing approx. 6 specialists in the varies fields of medicine, I was finally diagonised with ST. I am so happy to find this news group on here.  A big relief.  I did find a fantastic Neurologist who believed me and understood exactly what I was talking about.  We are currently trying a variety of oral medications to see if we can control it.  Of course as all of you know, with these types of medications come side-effects.  After being on one medication for 2 days, my husband said, "you don’t need to be on that, it will make you crazy."

I remember those days indeed. Taking  all kinds of oral medications for approx a 4-6 month timespan to see if any worked, unfortunately in my case none did, but that isn’t too say that you will not have positive results. We share a strange disorder indeed. I don’t think my husband is understanding what dystonia is all about quite yet.  I am looking for some encouragement and am hoping to find it here.

My wife/family/friends also did not, in fact I didn’t, but we all know alot more now : ) Thanks for letting me get a little bit off my mind…I hope I can be of help to other people here as well.

I am sure you will and am happy too meet you. There is an chatline where many people with Dystonia meet every Wednesday night at 9:00pm EST in the channel named #sd. The chatline program is mIRC. If you don’t have it but would like to know where/how to get it, just say so and all the information will be sent too you here. God bless Mark

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The basal ganglia may be like a computer which, if you have dystonia, malfunctions.

Are you trying to tell us that not only do we have dystonia but our brains are running Windows ‘95?! <g (err… nobody from MicroSoft is on here, are they…?) Cathy. —  (—-)                                                     (—-)   "  "         http://www.cuug.ab.ca:8001/~collisoc          "  "

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Howdy group.  I was just diagnosed with cervical dystonia last week. While I have had symptoms for YEARS all of the doctors I went to either could find nothing wrong or told me to "relax"! I am so happy to find this news group on here.  A big relief.  I did find a fantastic Neurologist who believed me and understood exactly what I was talking about.  We are currently trying a variety of oral medications to see if we can control it.  Of course as all of you know, with these types of medications come side-effects. on’t think my husband is understanding what dystonia is all about quite yet.

Dystonia is a disorder of movement.  It is frequently misunderstood  by the public and misdiagnosed by the medical profession because  of its complexity.  It is a syndrome of sustained muscle contractions frequently causing twisting and repetitive movements or abnormal  postures.  The cause of these abnormal postures is thought to be  problems in the area of the brain known as the basal ganglia.  Messages to initiate the correct muscle contractions required for specific movements are thought to original in this region.   The basal ganglia may be like a computer which, if you have dystonia, malfunctions. There are no laboratory tests which can confirm the diagnosis of dystonia.  The diagnosis is made on the basis of clinical neurological history and examination. Thanks for letting me get a little bit off my mind…I hope I can be of help to other people here as well. Connie

Gene

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A small correction using the computer industry lingo is that our "Operating System" has a small bug that causes intermittent failures of the computer itself.  Consequently, a number of highly paid researchers (Systems Analysts) are attempting to debug the system but so far have not been successful.  We may need to hire more competent personnel. Larry Barlar

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Are you trying to tell us that not only do we have dystonia but our brains are running Windows ‘95?! <g That’s a 32 bit application MB

Hey Larry!  You catch that?!  The gal’s getting smart on us! <g Cathy. —  (—-)                                                     (—-)   "  "         http://www.cuug.ab.ca:8001/~collisoc          "  "

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I am so happy to find this place on the internet–I was diagnosed with dystonia in the upper extremities and essential tremor of the head 2 years ago. It has been a struggle to finally get a diagnosis and even more of a struggle to find out more about it. Thank goodness I stumbled upon this newsgroup. I would like to exchange e-mail with anyone who feels inspired to write and share their experiences with me — I have felt so all alone through all of this. Barbara Zalesny

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The basal ganglia may be like a computer which, if you have dystonia, malfunctions. Are you trying to tell us that not only do we have dystonia but our brains are running Windows ‘95?! <g (err… nobody from MicroSoft is on here, are they…?) Cathy.

That’s a 32 bit application MB

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