- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Aloha Daltons, I do not specifically about serotonin. But… After several years of prednisone use I now have a bone density LOSS of about 35% per Dexascan. No one knew?? the dangers when I started the drug in 1988. It can change, mood, body weight (moon face), and other not so good side effects. Avoid when you can and use very carefully. According to an Endocrinologist sp?, steroids can affect bone density in one year or less. Mele Kaliki Maka, Merry Christmas to All, Edmund, Kauai, HI I have agressivness/anger/mood problems with prednisone in a major way. This is the most problematic side effect for me. :(
Yeah, it can do that too. See PI Precaution: http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic/pred.htm#sect-Precautions Excerpt: "Precautions: General Precautions The lowest possible dose of corticosteroid should be used to control the condition under treatment, and when reduction in dosage is possible, the reduction should be gradual. Psychic derangements may appear when corticosteroids are used, ranging from euphoria, insomnia, mood swings, personality changes, and severe depression, to frank psychotic manifestations. Also, existing emotional instability or psychotic tendencies may be aggravated by corticosteroids." I try to stay away from oral steroids like prednisone; have been able to control exacerbations with very high dose inhaled steroids, which is still much less steroid than prednisone, since its targeted to the lungs. So I double, triple, or if necessary quadruple my inhaled steroids during exacerbation (per Action Plan) Note–Oral steroids probably needed for peak flows below 50% of personal best. Ellis
Aloha Daltons, I do not specifically about serotonin. But… After several years of prednisone use I now have a bone density LOSS of about 35% per Dexascan. No one knew?? the dangers when I started the drug in 1988. It can change, mood, body weight (moon face), and other not so good side effects. Avoid when you can and use very carefully. According to an Endocrinologist sp?, steroids can affect bone density in one year or less. Mele Kaliki Maka, Merry Christmas to All, Edmund, Kauai, HI
I have agressivness/anger/mood problems with prednisone in a major way. This is the most problematic side effect for me. :(
Hi all :) Anyone know the effect prednisone has on serotonin levels?
Aloha Daltons, I do not specifically about serotonin. But… After several years of prednisone use I now have a bone density LOSS of about 35% per Dexascan. No one knew?? the dangers when I started the drug in 1988. It can change, mood, body weight (moon face), and other not so good side effects. Avoid when you can and use very carefully. According to an Endocrinologist sp?, steroids can affect bone density in one year or less. Mele Kaliki Maka, Merry Christmas to All, Edmund, Kauai, HI
Anyone know the effect prednisone has on serotonin levels?
I don’t know about serotonin interactions. Here’s a link to PI: http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic/pred.htm prednisone Excerpts: "Adverse Reactions: Neurological: Increased intracranial pressure with papilledema (pseudo-tumor cerebri) usually after treatment; Convulsions; Vertigo; Headache Endocrine: Menstrual irregularities; Development of Cushingoid state; Secondary adrenocortical and pituitary unresponsiveness, particularly in times of stress, as in trauma, surgery or illness; Suppression of growth in children; Decreased carbohydrate tolerance; Manifestations of latent diabetes mellitus; Increased requirements for insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents in diabetics Ophthalmic: Posterior subcapsular cataracts; Increased intraocular pressure; Glaucoma; Exophthalmos" Copyright 1998 – Mosby Inc. – Mosby’s GenRx Many asthmatics on oral steroids have been able to switch to High Dose inhaled steroids like Pulmicort or Flovent 220, which results in a smaller systemic dose. Ellis
I
am getting realy concerned – having another huge panic attack and Ijust went to
the pdoc yessterday. On Zoloft and Ativan. If I don’t get this worked out soon
I could be in trouble…. MAC Mac, didn’t you say you’re on 25 mg Zoloft? I think this is way too much to start out on – no wonder you’re feeling panicky. Try cutting that pill in quarters and take one of those a day. Then add one quarter per week. Most doctors just don’t seem to realize how sensitive some of us are to meds. That’s why so many people think they don’t work for them. Dot
Hi, Mac, I would assume it is a short-lived side effect of the antidepressant. Don’t fret, just let the feelings pass and try to tell yourself it is just a side effect and will go away in a couple of days… ((((((Mac)))))) smiles, Elise
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am getting realy concerned – having another huge panic attack and Ijust went to the pdoc yessterday. On Zoloft and Ativan. If I don’t get this worked out soon I could be in trouble…. MAC
Hey Mac, steady on. It WILL pass! Its just a sneaky SOB. Can’t see it, can’t control it, damn it. We all know the feeling! Just a question for you, when do you take which meds? I discovered that I cannot take the atenolol in the AM, I have to take it at night before bedtime. I go to sleep quicker and don’t notice any other side effect. If I take it in the AM I’m crashing –feel faint and dizzy, just like a PA– about 2 hours later. When I take it in the AM my pulse rate is about 60 at 11 AM, when I most need to be percolating at full steam and starting the restaurant workday. I know you said a few weeks ago that the atenolol didn’t affect you anymore, but you might look at it again. Sometimes just an increment of personal control can shift our inner stabilizer to a more neutral position. You can also take the zoloft at night, or now, as you wean on, take half in the AM and half at bedtime. Zoloft is "splittable". I did that for financial reasons in the past, 100 mg Zoloft costs the same as 50 mg, so my rx were written for 100 mg and take 1/2 daily, saved me a bundle of money when I paid out of pocket!!! YMMV yada yada but use what tools you have to accomodate this bump. You’ll be on the other side of the hump soon! HUGS, Mac. Hang ON! Sue
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am getting realy concerned – having another huge panic attack and Ijust went to the pdoc yessterday. On Zoloft and Ativan. If I don’t get this worked out soon I could be in trouble…. MAC
:I am getting realy concerned – having another huge panic attack and Ijust :went to the pdoc yessterday. On Zoloft and Ativan. If I don’t get this :worked out soon I could be in trouble…. MAC Dear Mac, "Sometimes" antidepressants can "temporarily" increase anxiety while weaning on them. Now…….I`m not saying that zoloft caused your panic, only your doctor could make that determination but he needs to know about this. Call your doctor! Take care. Jackie ~*~As soon as you trust yourself you will know how to live~*~ ~Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe~
I am getting realy concerned – having another huge panic attack and Ijust went to the pdoc yessterday. On Zoloft and Ativan. If I don’t get this worked out soon I could be in trouble…. MAC
MAC you are starting to get really boring. You are a smart guy. You have been told many times how the meds work, that they take time. I’m sorry you don’t have the time, but until the meds level off you are best to take a bedroll and park your butt on your docs doorstep. Or convince one of these ASAP types you are so fond of to come stay with you for a few days. I’m sure any number of them would like an expenses paid trip to Seattle.<g
Please call your doctor Mac! You’ve been having extremely high anxiety because of this job situation. I’m not surprised that you had another PA. Please call and get some assurance from him. Try to breathe slowly in Di
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am getting realy concerned – having another huge panic attack and Ijust went to the pdoc yessterday. On Zoloft and Ativan. If I don’t get this worked out soon I could be in trouble…. MAC
I am getting realy concerned – having another huge panic attack and Ijust went to the pdoc yessterday. On Zoloft and Ativan. If I don’t get this worked out soon I could be in trouble…. MAC
Yes what Jackie said is true. I tried Prozac a year back without a benzo and quit REAL QUICK. IT made my anxiety terrible. so now I have gone a year without it and am getting ready to start a benzo. I am thinking after being on a benzo for a month or so I might try an AD. Mac just know that it is probably the SSRI causing the extra anxiety and that once you get used to it and have the benzo for a back up you will probably feel better than you have in YEARS! I like the idea of an SSRI long term but not until I get on a benzo and get calmed down. I also have a big move coming up soon. Why I finally decided to get a benzo :) Good Luck! Dustin
I am getting realy concerned – having another huge panic attack and Ijust went to the pdoc yessterday. On Zoloft and Ativan. If I don’t get this worked out soon I could be in trouble…. MAC
I disagree with your response that a hallucinagen did NOT give a PA. Ever since a hullucinaginec triggered my first one, I have had them pretty bad for awhile. I never had one prior, and even though I have not used in over two years I still get them occasionally.
I thought the same thing for years – that a bad trip gave me years of anxiety and panic. At some point, though, I realized I had always been a "weird" kid, had nightmares all the time and a lot of fears. I think an intense drug experience can reconnect you to your primal fears, but it doesn’t change who you are. In fact, I’m more relaxed now than I was _before_ the drug experience, because I’ve faced some of the fears that I had tucked away in the back of my mind. Therapists have always told me that the bad trip didn’t really matter; maybe I’ve finally been brainwashed. But I remember obsessing endlessly for the first 2 years: "Why did I ever take that trip? I’m never going to be the same again!". That obsession fed my panic much more than any actual memory of the experience. I agree that there’s a certain trauma that we can go through as a result of a bad experience, but the mind can heal itself over time. This is why I think that PTSD may be different from panic disorder. I sure would like a real psychiatrist to clear this up for me! I am soooooo relieved that I am not the only person to feel likeme. It seems that no one else has residual effects. Also, I refuse to take Xanax, due to the fact that its addictive. Drugs have made me so paranoid to take anything including tylenol. I wish I could share my experiance with everyone so no one else has to go though it. Whoops, didnt mean to climb up a soap box, just happy to hear ( dismally ) that i am not the only one…
Me too. I didn’t know anything about PD for years; I just assumed that I had damaged my brain and was going to pay for the rest of my life. Thank God for the healing power of the mind. I’m still not sure that it matters whether we have our first PA while on a drug, in an exam, or on a plane – a PA is miserable no matter what triggers it! One more thing – like you, I was once very reluctant to go near ANY drug. I guess you only need to get burned once to stay away from the stove. BUT, looking back, I wish I had looked into meds, as they would have helped a lot (and did in later years). As long as you’re under doctor’s supervision, there’s no reason to fear Xanax or any other _prescription_ drug. YMMV, but I think most here will tell you that meds helped, rather than hurt them. Good luck! John S.
I disagree with your response that a hallucinagen did NOT give a PA. Ever since a hullucinaginec triggered my first one, I have had them pretty bad for awhile. I never had one prior, and even though I have not used in over two years I still get them occasionally. I am soooooo relieved that I am not the only person to feel likeme. It seems that no one else has residual effects. Also, I refuse to take Xanax, due to the fact that its addictive. Drugs have made me so paranoid to take anything including tylenol. I wish I could share my experiance with everyone so no one else has to go though it. Whoops, didnt mean to climb up a soap box, just happy to hear ( dismally ) that i am not – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Matthew, It’s not uncommon for a hallucinogenic drug to trigger a first PA. However, this doesn’t mean that the experience GAVE you panic disorder (which you may not even have). It’s important to keep the one-time drug experience in perspective, and not obsess about it. All I can say is, focus on how you’re feeling NOW, and forget about the initial trigger, which is by now inconsequential. Follow some of the great advice on ASAP. I would advise you not to tell the MD about the drug use, because he may not prescribe what you need. Doctors vary widely on this; I had one doctor who wouldn’t prescribe Xanax because I have been sober for 5 years (I quit drinking, so he assumed that I have a tendency toward addiction). BTW, your post describes my foray into panic disorder (in 1982) very well. Don’t let it get you down; you’ll survive this! Cheers, John S.
Matthew, It’s not uncommon for a hallucinogenic drug to trigger a first PA. However, this doesn’t mean that the experience GAVE you panic disorder (which you may not even have). It’s important to keep the one-time drug experience in perspective, and not obsess about it. All I can say is, focus on how you’re feeling NOW, and forget about the initial trigger, which is by now inconsequential. Follow some of the great advice on ASAP. I would advise you not to tell the MD about the drug use, because he may not prescribe what you need. Doctors vary widely on this; I had one doctor who wouldn’t prescribe Xanax because I have been sober for 5 years (I quit drinking, so he assumed that I have a tendency toward addiction). BTW, your post describes my foray into panic disorder (in 1982) very well. Don’t let it get you down; you’ll survive this! Cheers, John S.
Hi, this is my first time posting here so please bare with me. I’ll start off by saying that I have no idea what is going on with me, and I’m looking for info, help, whatever you can give me. I’m 21, male and untill now, pretty outgoing. about three months ago, I smoked some marijuana with a new workmate (something I never do) I had a very bad experience with it (I’m not sure what you’re supposed to feel like when high, but I’m sure this was not what it was supposed to feel like) well, I eventualy came down, about two weeks later, late at night, I’m readying myself for a shower, and BAM, I feel like I did when I was high that day, now I am going to have a hard time explaining what it feels like, but I’ll give it my best shot. I feel like I can’t think, even know I can, concentration is all but gone, I feel real tence, like I can’t calm down, can’t even realy watch TV. I get mild heart palpitations, and sometimes I get this feeling of not being real, my vision is funny, but I can’t explain that, KIND of like double vision, but not realy. and sometimes I get this feeling that washes over me and is gone within say 5 – 10 seconds, like I am realy zoned out. this has been going on ever since. a few weeks ago, it started to get better, and I was starting to enjoy life again, and do the things I once had, then this last monday, I got a migraine, it went away, the folowing night I got another one, and I took some migraine pain reliefe wich got rid of it, well, as the migrain went away, that feeling came back, and it’s been with me again ever since. I went to the doctor shortly after I started feeling like this and he gave me recomendation for blood work, wich I couldn’t afford seeing as I have not been able to work since this started happening. PLEASE don’t judge me for the drug use as it is something I do not do. any onfo or similar experiences would VERY much be apreciated. thank you so much for your time, Matthew.
I was just fine an hour or so ago. But my life is way stressful right now. I’m having chest pains and shortness of breath, thinking irrationally. Well, at least I know I am thinking irrationally! Somebody please TELL ME I’M NOT DYING.
I was just fine an hour or so ago. But my life is way stressful right now. I’m having chest pains and shortness of breath, thinking irrationally. Well, at least I know I am thinking irrationally! Somebody please TELL ME I’M NOT DYING.
Wendy – you are *NOT* dying! Really! What’s happening is that you are having a panic attack. I’d say "that’s all" but no one who has ever suffered one would underplay the vicious terror of these things. Please just hang on in there and, if you’re not, *get some treatment*…. Keep posting, keep reading – please let us try to help you. <hug — Gary Cooper
Somebody please TELL ME I’M NOT DYING.
My dear Wendy, As long as you are able to read this message, you are definitely NOT DYING! Get an ice cream, and go and watch the telly… try not to think about the fact that you are probably in the middle of a major (easier said than done, I know). If you are reading this message 24 hours after posting yours, then you know you got through it! Yours, PaNick!
I don’t think so
I am in another crisis, After 2 1/2 months on Serzone I am realizing its just not working that well. I still get nausea, have a strange feeling in my head with some remaining dizziness and lightheadedness and these constant tension headaches! I have been communicating online with the "Panic Disorder Institute" and getting new information on things like how the PD links with the somatic symptoms and it certainly looks like I have an acid reflux condition from the panic and anxiety that causes my inner ear, sinus and throat problems and my digestive problems. This doc recommends Xanax and Carfate for this. But I’m scared again because I’m not sure about trying another benzo and getting to a high enough dose to do any good. But there are other AD’s. He puts Trofranil way up there as a good panic / anxiety medication. What do you think? Desperate, Melodee
Melodee writes:
<< I am in another crisis, After 2 1/2 months on Serzone I am realizing its just not working that well. I still get nausea, have a strange feeling in my head with some remaining dizziness and lightheadedness and these constant tension headaches! Hi Melodee! I had a very bad reaction to Serzone, including constant headaches…my pdoc told me there is a small percentage of people who will react badly to this particular drug because of a liver enzyme that reacts to it. I don’t know if this is what is happening to you, but my pdoc felt that was the problem with me…at any rate, you shouldn’t be having constant headaches! I think it’s time to get off the Serzone… << I have been communicating online with the "Panic Disorder Institute" and getting new information on things like how the PD links with the somatic symptoms and it certainly looks like I have an acid reflux condition from the panic and anxiety that causes my inner ear, sinus and throat problems and my digestive problems. This doc recommends Xanax and Carfate for this. But I’m scared again because I’m not sure about trying another benzo and getting to a high enough dose to do any good. But there are other AD’s. He puts Trofranil way up there as a good panic / anxiety medication. What do you think? Desperate, Melodee I have read Dr. Shipko’s reserach with great interest, and, although I have not directly communicated with him, I feel that his approach and findings make a LOT of sense…JMO. I DO know that Tofranil is a good med for PD. I also, however, am a huge believer in Xanax…without it, no matter WHAT ad I was on, I had no panic relief. I take 4-5 mgs. of Xanax per day…many people feel that is a "high" dose, but it has worked consistantly for me for about 10 years straight. As you know, everyone’s mileage varies when it comes to dosing, but I believe Xanax is sure worth a try!!! I know trying new meds is scary, but suffering with bad side effects and/or panic is NOT necessary! If I were you, I’d try another med, and give yourself a chance to start feeling better!!!:) Hang in…you are not alone! Best, ~~Char*) "You’re just jealous because the little voices talk to ME!"
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am in another crisis, After 2 1/2 months on Serzone I am realizing its just not working that well. I still get nausea, have a strange feeling in my head with some remaining dizziness and lightheadedness and these constant tension headaches! I have been communicating online with the "Panic Disorder Institute" and getting new information on things like how the PD links with the somatic symptoms and it certainly looks like I have an acid reflux condition from the panic and anxiety that causes my inner ear, sinus and throat problems and my digestive problems. This doc recommends Xanax and Carfate for this. But I’m scared again because I’m not sure about trying another benzo and getting to a high enough dose to do any good. But there are other AD’s. He puts Trofranil way up there as a good panic / anxiety medication. What do you think? Desperate, Melodee
I had terrible results with Serzone too. Tofranil is known to be a good panic/anxiety med. Personally after years of different medication trials I take Nortriptyline, which is in the same class as Tofranil, with xanax (and a very small amount of Prozac) and it is the best combination I have ever been on and I will happily stay on it for the rest of my life is needs be. I have to say though..the xanax has saved my life and made me a free and healthy person finally..I know there are a lot of scary stories about addiction and blah blah out there but for a lot of us with this type of disorder it is a very very good medication. I also follow the PDI BBS and read what Dr. Shipko writes and I have a great deal of respect for his opinions and advice. I would give the Tofranil a try, with xanax in lower doses if you are afraid to go the higher dosage route with Xanax alone. Best of luck to you and please post how it goes! May — "Every time I feel the urge to exercise, I lie down until it goes away." – Mark Twain
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am in another crisis, After 2 1/2 months on Serzone I am realizing its just not working that well. I still get nausea, have a strange feeling in my head with some remaining dizziness and lightheadedness and these constant tension headaches! I have been communicating online with the "Panic Disorder Institute" and getting new information on things like how the PD links with the somatic symptoms and it certainly looks like I have an acid reflux condition from the panic and anxiety that causes my inner ear, sinus and throat problems and my digestive problems. This doc recommends Xanax and Carfate for this. But I’m scared again because I’m not sure about trying another benzo and getting to a high enough dose to do any good. But there are other AD’s. He puts Trofranil way up there as a good panic / anxiety medication. What do you think? Desperate, Melodee
Dear Melodee, I think you should certainly get off the serzone and try another medication. Medications don’t work the same for everyone, but Tofranil is an older and *well* tested medication that does work very well with PD for many people – myself included. My life turned around when I combined Tofranil and Xanax together. Until then I had tried numerous meds and lived a life of hell. I slowly increased both dosages (with the help of my understanding physician) and now I have been at 150 mg Tofranil at bedtime with 4 mg Xanax per day for about 2 years straight. This combo has worked well for others also. You may want to give it a try. Hope you find relief soon and start feeling better. You’re definitely not in this alone 
John L.
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am in another crisis, After 2 1/2 months on Serzone I am realizing its just not working that well. I still get nausea, have a strange feeling in my head with some remaining dizziness and lightheadedness and these constant tension headaches! I have been communicating online with the "Panic Disorder Institute" and getting new information on things like how the PD links with the somatic symptoms and it certainly looks like I have an acid reflux condition from the panic and anxiety that causes my inner ear, sinus and throat problems and my digestive problems. This doc recommends Xanax and Carfate for this. But I’m scared again because I’m not sure about trying another benzo and getting to a high enough dose to do any good. But there are other AD’s. He puts Trofranil way up there as a good panic / anxiety medication. What do you think? Desperate, Melodee
Although a certain amount of scepticism may be a good thing, I think you can safely regard Dr. S. at the PDI as a very trustworthy source of information. Often GERD and IBS are part of or at least comorbid with PD. I understand Shipko advised you to take Xanax and Carafate which seems to be a very good combo for this. As a matter of fact they are the meds he himself is on, being a sufferer too. Why are you scared about trying another benzo? It sounds like you had a bad experience with one? It’s an easy med to try. AD’s, on the other hand, have to weaned on slowly to avoid initial side effects and worsening of symptoms. As a matter of fact benzos are often used to help wean on an AD. Tofranil (imipramine) is a TCA (tricyclic antidepressant) which is an oldie but goodie. It’s stil often used for PD. It should be started at 10 mgs and then slowly raised up to therapeutic dose (which can be anywhere between 75-200 mgs and this can be verified by blood work). There is a third way and that’s combining Tofranil & Xanax (and Carafate can be added, this is more for IBS than for the actual Panic Attacks). Actually this is the combo I am on (Tofranil 150 mgs & Xanax 2.5 mgs). It works for me but YMMV. Philip
I have to agree with the rest of the group. Tofrinil (imiprimine) and Xanax are an effective combo… I used both with 10mg. of Paxil. It’s my understading that the SSRI (Paxil) increases the serum level of imiprimine so you don’t have to take as much. Warning: the side effects from imiprimine can be wretched at first….NO saliva, constipation, daytime somnelence, etc… However, as with John L… the combo changed my life too. I was on it for 4 years then DC’d and remained PA-free for 2 years. I’m currently on Zoloft…not as effective as the imiprimine, but I couldn’t handle the side effects anymore. -VJ (another newbie to the group)
Excuse me… Please stop sending html to a newsgroup, please stop yelling and please stop pushing pot use in this group. You may as well push coffee and other caffine drinks.
I am on antdepressants and on Xanax, and still I am in a panic. my dad…who was half owner in my home, and only signed it over to me in July, is now after a stroke and all sorts of complications in need of nursing home care. I have been told, that the fact that he renounced claim in our home is immaterial and that before medecaid will pay for any help, they will take his half of the house…..and I the mortgage is already at my max of capacity. I am divorced and my two sons, 23 and 17 live with me….Mom and dad lived in the apartment downstairs….mom died two years ago. neither has any money, dad makes 1300 a month between his pension and social seucurity. I don’t want to lose my home of these past 10 years, but don’t know what to do…I am in NY and NY is not much in the way of caring I am told….. HELP!!!!!!! Please…..I have been through 5 years of hell with the divorce, mom dying, my sons accident and now this…I can’t take any more please respond in email if you help I am in Orange County NY
I am on antdepressants and on Xanax, and still I am in a panic. my dad…who was half owner in my home, and only signed it over to me in July, is now after a stroke and all sorts of complications in need of nursing home care. I have been told, that the fact that he renounced claim in our home is immaterial and that before medecaid will pay for any help, they will take his half of the house…..and I the mortgage is already at my max of capacity. I am divorced and my two sons, 23 and 17 live with me….Mom and dad lived in the apartment downstairs….mom died two years ago. neither has any money, dad makes 1300 a month between his pension and social seucurity. I don’t want to lose my home of these past 10 years, but don’t know what to do…I am in NY and NY is not much in the way of caring I am told….. HELP!!!!!!! Please…..I have been through 5 years of hell with the divorce, mom dying, my sons accident and now this…I can’t take any more
Hi, Ok.Try to relax a second.It is a really rough time.One of thoses definig lifes moment. I would confer with a GOOD lawyer.This can be worked out,Gov Pataki did the exact same thing with his mother having her sign property over to him.Somebody in social sevices might also be able to help.You must put up a good fight or they’ll beat you for sure.They’re are caring folks out there.My wifes bes friend is a person who has some pull with social services.What part of NY are you in?We also live in NY.EMail me back your info.In times like these your medication is working hard to keep you stablized.Do not panic.You have to convince yourself that there is a way to work this out.Nobody wants to put anybody on the street.See a lawyer ASAP Peace JMiles
yes, i too have to focus on something else..TV doesn’t work because you still focus on what you are feeling, and reading a magazine is too hard when my head is jumbly….actually that is why i love the computer now…before i didn’t use it much , but whenever i have an attack i get online….but not to look up panic stuff, because you want to get it out of your time….catch up on your email or surf some new sites…something not too hard but it helps me….i tried to do the positive thinking thing, but you are still focused on yourself, you have to find some distraction…..try the computer, works wonders for me (along with popping a xanex of course!) jana
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Janet, I have also found that when I am very focused on myself my anxiety attacks get worse. I usually do some breathing exercises if I think of it. But when you are in the moment it’s hard to focus on anything productive, I’ll be the first to admit this. Stay strong and I hope your doctor appointment goes well. Raquel I just found this newsgroup and I hope someone out there has experienced what I am now going through and can help me. I’ve been living with panic disorder (on and off symptoms) for almost 20 years. My greatest breakthrough was 2 years ago when I finally found the Midwest Center and went through their 15 week program. It helped tremendously. However, I’m experiencing a set back and am having trouble coping. To make it short, I had learned to calm myself down with positive self-talk (i.e., it’s only my anxiety, I’m not going to die, I’m not going to go crazy, it will pass, etc.). 3 weeks ago, I experienced some very unusual, fluttery feelings in my chest, racing heartbeat, etc. and went to the emergency room. By the time I got there, the feelings had stopped and they didn’t find anything wrong but suggested that I follow-up with a cardiologist. I did and had an exercise stress test. The test revealed that I’m having arrythmias. My doctor wants me to wait 2 weeks before trying medication and if I’m lucky they’ll just stop. Welll, 2 weeks are up and I’m still having them everyday. My anxiety and panic disorder is now full blown. I’m listening to my tapes, taking xanax, and trying not to freak out. But, it’s hard to believe my positive self-talk when, in fact, there really could be something wrong with my heart. Before, I would assure myself that there wasn’t anything physically wrong with me. How can I do that now? Has anyone experienced a similar circumstance? What did you do to help yourself. My next doctors appointment isn’t until next week and I feel like that’s an enternity. I also have a job interview today which I might have to cancel. Can you imagine me sitting there, checking my pulse, holding my breath, spaced out and disoriented at a job interview????? Some impression I’ll make, huh? Please, please anybody….any enouraging words or helpful ideas? Hi Janet, when i used to get bad general anxiety attacks at home i tried to keep as busy as i could. Even if i really did’nt feel like it i’d find some painting or gardening to do. Anything so long as i was’nt just sitting there focusing on myself all the time. There were times when i thought i was dying so i know how frightened you feel at the moment but if they found nothing wrong when you had the tests three weeks ago then try to trust that and focus on something outside of yourself. Easy for me to say i know but i felt the same as you this time two years ago. Sorry you feel so bad at the moment, best wishes. Ken.
It sounds like the doctor doesn’t think the arythmias are dangerous. Maybe he just wants to control them because they interfere with your panic control? Anyhow, something I find useful in my self-talk is to ask myself, "will thinking about this right now help?" the answer is usually no. someone posted here that all prroblems can be divided into two groups, those that can be solved by worrying about them, and those that can’t. Right now the arrythmia is in the second category. You have made plans for the next thing to do about them, which is to see the doctor next week. Until then, when you can get more information about what is going on, there is nothing else to do. so try to keep shoving those worries into the second category, and keep them from giving you more trouble. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I just found this newsgroup and I hope someone out there has experienced what I am now going through and can help me. I’ve been living with panic disorder (on and off symptoms) for almost 20 years. My greatest breakthrough was 2 years ago when I finally found the Midwest Center and went through their 15 week program. It helped tremendously. However, I’m experiencing a set back and am having trouble coping. To make it short, I had learned to calm myself down with positive self-talk (i.e., it’s only my anxiety, I’m not going to die, I’m not going to go crazy, it will pass, etc.). 3 weeks ago, I experienced some very unusual, fluttery feelings in my chest, racing heartbeat, etc. and went to the emergency room. By the time I got there, the feelings had stopped and they didn’t find anything wrong but suggested that I follow-up with a cardiologist. I did and had an exercise stress test. The test revealed that I’m having arrythmias. My doctor wants me to wait 2 weeks before trying medication and if I’m lucky they’ll just stop. Welll, 2 weeks are up and I’m still having them everyday. My anxiety and panic disorder is now full blown. I’m listening to my tapes, taking xanax, and trying not to freak out. But, it’s hard to believe my positive self-talk when, in fact, there really could be something wrong with my heart. Before, I would assure myself that there wasn’t anything physically wrong with me. How can I do that now? Has anyone experienced a similar circumstance? What did you do to help yourself. My next doctors appointment isn’t until next week and I feel like that’s an enternity. I also have a job interview today which I might have to cancel. Can you imagine me sitting there, checking my pulse, holding my breath, spaced out and disoriented at a job interview????? Some impression I’ll make, huh? Please, please anybody….any enouraging words or helpful ideas?
Janet, I have also found that when I am very focused on myself my anxiety attacks get worse. I usually do some breathing exercises if I think of it. But when you are in the moment it’s hard to focus on anything productive, I’ll be the first to admit this. Stay strong and I hope your doctor appointment goes well. Raquel
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I just found this newsgroup and I hope someone out there has experienced what I am now going through and can help me. I’ve been living with panic disorder (on and off symptoms) for almost 20 years. My greatest breakthrough was 2 years ago when I finally found the Midwest Center and went through their 15 week program. It helped tremendously. However, I’m experiencing a set back and am having trouble coping. To make it short, I had learned to calm myself down with positive self-talk (i.e., it’s only my anxiety, I’m not going to die, I’m not going to go crazy, it will pass, etc.). 3 weeks ago, I experienced some very unusual, fluttery feelings in my chest, racing heartbeat, etc. and went to the emergency room. By the time I got there, the feelings had stopped and they didn’t find anything wrong but suggested that I follow-up with a cardiologist. I did and had an exercise stress test. The test revealed that I’m having arrythmias. My doctor wants me to wait 2 weeks before trying medication and if I’m lucky they’ll just stop. Welll, 2 weeks are up and I’m still having them everyday. My anxiety and panic disorder is now full blown. I’m listening to my tapes, taking xanax, and trying not to freak out. But, it’s hard to believe my positive self-talk when, in fact, there really could be something wrong with my heart. Before, I would assure myself that there wasn’t anything physically wrong with me. How can I do that now? Has anyone experienced a similar circumstance? What did you do to help yourself. My next doctors appointment isn’t until next week and I feel like that’s an enternity. I also have a job interview today which I might have to cancel. Can you imagine me sitting there, checking my pulse, holding my breath, spaced out and disoriented at a job interview????? Some impression I’ll make, huh? Please, please anybody….any enouraging words or helpful ideas? Hi Janet, when i used to get bad general anxiety attacks at home i tried to keep as busy as i could. Even if i really did’nt feel like it i’d find some painting or gardening to do. Anything so long as i was’nt just sitting there focusing on myself all the time. There were times when i thought i was dying so i know how frightened you feel at the moment but if they found nothing wrong when you had the tests three weeks ago then try to trust that and focus on something outside of yourself. Easy for me to say i know but i felt the same as you this time two years ago. Sorry you feel so bad at the moment, best wishes. Ken.
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I just found this newsgroup and I hope someone out there has experienced what I am now going through and can help me. I’ve been living with panic disorder (on and off symptoms) for almost 20 years. My greatest breakthrough was 2 years ago when I finally found the Midwest Center and went through their 15 week program. It helped tremendously. However, I’m experiencing a set back and am having trouble coping. To make it short, I had learned to calm myself down with positive self-talk (i.e., it’s only my anxiety, I’m not going to die, I’m not going to go crazy, it will pass, etc.). 3 weeks ago, I experienced some very unusual, fluttery feelings in my chest, racing heartbeat, etc. and went to the emergency room. By the time I got there, the feelings had stopped and they didn’t find anything wrong but suggested that I follow-up with a cardiologist. I did and had an exercise stress test. The test revealed that I’m having arrythmias. My doctor wants me to wait 2 weeks before trying medication and if I’m lucky they’ll just stop. Welll, 2 weeks are up and I’m still having them everyday. My anxiety and panic disorder is now full blown. I’m listening to my tapes, taking xanax, and trying not to freak out. But, it’s hard to believe my positive self-talk when, in fact, there really could be something wrong with my heart. Before, I would assure myself that there wasn’t anything physically wrong with me. How can I do that now? Has anyone experienced a similar circumstance? What did you do to help yourself. My next doctors appointment isn’t until next week and I feel like that’s an enternity. I also have a job interview today which I might have to cancel. Can you imagine me sitting there, checking my pulse, holding my breath, spaced out and disoriented at a job interview????? Some impression I’ll make, huh? Please, please anybody….any enouraging words or helpful ideas?
Hi Janet, when i used to get bad general anxiety attacks at home i tried to keep as busy as i could. Even if i really did’nt feel like it i’d find some painting or gardening to do. Anything so long as i was’nt just sitting there focusing on myself all the time. There were times when i thought i was dying so i know how frightened you feel at the moment but if they found nothing wrong when you had the tests three weeks ago then try to trust that and focus on something outside of yourself. Easy for me to say i know but i felt the same as you this time two years ago. Sorry you feel so bad at the moment, best wishes. Ken.
Janet: A few years back when we had an extremely tragic and stressful situation with one of our kids, I was having the same symptoms as you. My doctor put me on a portable EKG thing for 24 hours and it showed irregular heartbeats. It felt to me as if a large bird was fluttering madly in my chest, trying to break free! — or a fish flopping for its life. This sensation took my breath away and was pretty frightening, especially all night as I tried to sleep. Unlike your doc, however, my family doctor diagnosed stress and anxiety, and immediately put me on Xanax to calm me down. It worked like a charm. The second day after beginning the med, I simply stopped having the palpitations. (I’d had them for about 3-4 months, getting worse all the time.) Do talk to your doctor about the possibility of some anti-anxiety medication to break this anxiety cycle. Good luck, and let us know what happens. Best, Anne —
Whoops! janet, I just re-read your posting and see that you *do* take Xanax. Perhaps you need an increased dosage; talk to your doctor, and if he’s not helpful, seek out a psychiatrist. Sorry I was asleep when I replied! – Anne —
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I just found this newsgroup and I hope someone out there has experienced what I am now going through and can help me. I’ve been living with panic disorder (on and off symptoms) for almost 20 years. My greatest breakthrough was 2 years ago when I finally found the Midwest Center and went through their 15 week program. It helped tremendously. However, I’m experiencing a set back and am having trouble coping. To make it short, I had learned to calm myself down with positive self-talk (i.e., it’s only my anxiety, I’m not going to die, I’m not going to go crazy, it will pass, etc.). 3 weeks ago, I experienced some very unusual, fluttery feelings in my chest, racing heartbeat, etc. and went to the emergency room. By the time I got there, the feelings had stopped and they didn’t find anything wrong but suggested that I follow-up with a cardiologist. I did and had an exercise stress test. The test revealed that I’m having arrythmias. My doctor wants me to wait 2 weeks before trying medication and if I’m lucky they’ll just stop. Welll, 2 weeks are up and I’m still having them everyday. My anxiety and panic disorder is now full blown. I’m listening to my tapes, taking xanax, and trying not to freak out. But, it’s hard to believe my positive self-talk when, in fact, there really could be something wrong with my heart. Before, I would assure myself that there wasn’t anything physically wrong with me. How can I do that now? Has anyone experienced a similar circumstance? What did you do to help yourself. My next doctors appointment isn’t until next week and I feel like that’s an enternity. I also have a job interview today which I might have to cancel. Can you imagine me sitting there, checking my pulse, holding my breath, spaced out and disoriented at a job interview????? Some impression I’ll make, huh? Please, please anybody….any enouraging words or helpful ideas?
I’ve been through the positive thinking route and found it’s effectiveness to be very limited. (when one is feeling well it really works!) I’d see a psychiatrist and get on the proper meds to control your anxiety. You sound like you need a higher dose of Xanax and/or another med. If the cardiologist told you to come back in one week, he couldn’t have been too concerned about a serious arrythmia. If he was, you would now be in the hospital being treated for it. Hope this helps, Chip Before you buy.
arrythmias.
big word little consequence unless you have underlying pathology like elctrical conduction problems or clogged arteries-from a medical standpoint what you are experiencing is tantemount to a hiccup or burp- they are uncomfortable only if you define them as awful or life threatening-the stimulating hormones your body is secreting at such high levels all the time are expressed evrywhere like in faster peristalsis of your gut or flutters of your heart these are benign symptoms of anxiety even if your anxiety attacks are controlled you understand you have a proclivity to experience stress and worry so you still are and are expressing it physiologicaly instead of emotively-meds can ease the cardiac contractions or mellow out the conduction time if needed so don’t freak out you aren’t going to die or go crazy. The very worse that will happen if these burps are bad enough is you will pass out and this is the very worse is rare if you are youngish and is still controlable with meds. re read and listen to her stopping scary thoughts tapes and don’t do the what ifs or imagine yourself having a cardiac arrest-once under the care of a cardiac doc you will be fine. LM
I just found this newsgroup and I hope someone out there has experienced what I am now going through and can help me. I’ve been living with panic disorder (on and off symptoms) for almost 20 years. My greatest breakthrough was 2 years ago when I finally found the Midwest Center and went through their 15 week program. It helped tremendously. However, I’m experiencing a set back and am having trouble coping. To make it short, I had learned to calm myself down with positive self-talk (i.e., it’s only my anxiety, I’m not going to die, I’m not going to go crazy, it will pass, etc.). 3 weeks ago, I experienced some very unusual, fluttery feelings in my chest, racing heartbeat, etc. and went to the emergency room. By the time I got there, the feelings had stopped and they didn’t find anything wrong but suggested that I follow-up with a cardiologist. I did and had an exercise stress test. The test revealed that I’m having arrythmias. My doctor wants me to wait 2 weeks before trying medication and if I’m lucky they’ll just stop. Welll, 2 weeks are up and I’m still having them everyday. My anxiety and panic disorder is now full blown. I’m listening to my tapes, taking xanax, and trying not to freak out. But, it’s hard to believe my positive self-talk when, in fact, there really could be something wrong with my heart. Before, I would assure myself that there wasn’t anything physically wrong with me. How can I do that now? Has anyone experienced a similar circumstance? What did you do to help yourself. My next doctors appointment isn’t until next week and I feel like that’s an enternity. I also have a job interview today which I might have to cancel. Can you imagine me sitting there, checking my pulse, holding my breath, spaced out and disoriented at a job interview????? Some impression I’ll make, huh? Please, please anybody….any enouraging words or helpful ideas?
Margrove, Thanks for your reply to my post. You may recall that I talked about Seroquel and Zyprexa and you mentioned that Seroquel was more dose dependent. Could you explain what is meant by that. I was on 5mg Zyprexa and now 100mg Seroquel. Got questions? Get answers over the phone at Keen.com. Up to 100 minutes free! http://www.keen.com
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, I’m desperate! In order for my career to go ahead I need to take a whole program of study in the next year and that amounts to a very heavy load each quarter. I haven’t been well, so I don’t know how I can do this. I just turned 50 last year and about three years ago came down with panic/anxiety disorder. I take medications, but none of them work that well. I did OK for awhile on Zyprexa. But now I’m on Seoquel because of the weight problem with Zyprexa. But I’m not sure if the Seroquel is going to work as good. My pdoc also just put me on Depakote about two months ago. It never felt quite right so I’m coming off of it. I don’t feel so good. Could there be some withdrawl symptoms from the Depakote? I was on 1000mg and then went down to 750 for about a week and now I’ve just reduced it to 500mg yesterday. Please help! Dee
Hi Dee! Wish I could help you with the meds, but I don’t know anything about them. Just wanted to give you a hug. You sound like you need one. {{{{{{{Dee}}}}}}} Di
Hi, I’m desperate! In order for my career to go ahead I need to take a whole program of study in the next year and that amounts to a very heavy load each quarter. I haven’t been well, so I don’t know how I can do this. I just turned 50 last year and about three years ago came down with panic/anxiety disorder. I take medications, but none of them work that well. I did OK for awhile on Zyprexa. But now I’m on Seoquel because of the weight problem with Zyprexa. But I’m not sure if the Seroquel is going to work as good. My pdoc also just put me on Depakote about two months ago. It never felt quite right so I’m coming off of it. I don’t feel so good. Could there be some withdrawl symptoms from the Depakote? I was on 1000mg and then went down to 750 for about a week and now I’ve just reduced it to 500mg yesterday. Please help! Dee Got questions? Get answers over the phone at Keen.com. Up to 100 minutes free! http://www.keen.com
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, I’m desperate! In order for my career to go ahead I need to take a whole program of study in the next year and that amounts to a very heavy load each quarter. I haven’t been well, so I don’t know how I can do this. I just turned 50 last year and about three years ago came down with panic/anxiety disorder. I take medications, but none of them work that well. I did OK for awhile on Zyprexa. But now I’m on Seoquel because of the weight problem with Zyprexa. But I’m not sure if the Seroquel is going to work as good. My pdoc also just put me on Depakote about two months ago. It never felt quite right so I’m coming off of it. I don’t feel so good. Could there be some withdrawl symptoms from the Depakote? I was on 1000mg and then went down to 750 for about a week and now I’ve just reduced it to 500mg yesterday. Please help! Dee Got questions? Get answers over the phone at Keen.com. Up to 100 minutes free! http://www.keen.com
there is a slight rebound activity that occurs with tapers off depakote-like all psychoactive meds it requires a slow taper-your brain will readjust withina short time to its lack of presence-seroquel works differently then zyprexa and is much more dose dependant both being very respectable meds you may find your responses different as with all medicaments and individual chemistries-as for your course load-push the envelope and as the great zen of nike said-just do it. the worse that will happen is you may succeed. If not so what. LM
Thanks for all your support. Raquel – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I’m not doing to good right about now. Between having to move because of problems with my apartment, anxiety, depression, asthma, fibromyalgia and Hellish problems with MSN, who is charging me Double and doesn’t support any news servers for me, I am about to go insane. Not much left to live for. Raquel Before you buy.
I’m not doing to good right about now. Between having to move because of problems with my apartment, anxiety, depression, asthma, fibromyalgia and Hellish problems with MSN, who is charging me Double and doesn’t support any news servers for me, I am about to go insane. Not much left to live for. Raquel
Dear Raquel, As much as you don`t feel like it right now, there is much left to live for. You have a wonderful husband, and you also have Somer, I know how precious he is to you. I know moving is a stress right now, but think of how it may help improve your health in the long run? Has your depression worsened lately? I can`t recall the meds you are on for your asthma, if you are on prednisone, it could be exacerbating your depression. You might want to call your doctor about that. Please hang in there, it will get better. Love Jackie ~*~The great art of life is sensation, to feel that we exist, even in
Dear Raquel, I’m so sorry you are feeling down right now. You have a lot going on at once and it does feel overwhelming. Try to tackle one thing at a time. And then find ways to be kind to yourself and to tell yourself that you are going to get through it. Find ways to have little successes, then you can build on them. I hope you feel better soon. Don’t give up. I’m not doing to good right about now. Between having to move because of problems with my apartment, anxiety, depression, asthma, fibromyalgia and Hellish problems with MSN, who is charging me Double and doesn’t support any news servers for me, I am about to go insane. Not much left to live for. Raquel Before you buy.
– Jeannie "On the other hand….you have different fingers." Before you buy.
I’m not doing to good right about now. Between having to move because of problems with my apartment, anxiety, depression, asthma, fibromyalgia and Hellish problems with MSN, who is charging me Double and doesn’t support any news servers for me, I am about to go insane. Not much left to live for. Raquel
Maybe it would be a good idea to break down this accumulation of problems into more manageable parts. – How is your asthma coming along? Do the new meds work? -Maybe you would like to tell us some more about your anxiety problems etc. and how they are treated… I think you should look for a good CBT-therapist. -And what’s with the appartment? How is Brian? He is always so supportive….are you two OK? Philip – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Before you buy.
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m not doing to good right about now. Between having to move because of problems with my apartment, anxiety, depression, asthma, fibromyalgia and Hellish problems with MSN, who is charging me Double and doesn’t support any news servers for me, I am about to go insane. Not much left to live for. Raquel Before you buy.
Look for Something just anything that grounds you in the present. (((((((Raquel)))))) Sue
Hi Raquel Just hang in there and go with its flow and try to keep your chin high up. Be extra good for yourself . This bumpy road will stop and things will pick up, its all a matter of time! Keep posting and let us be with you in your hart! Love Jeannette
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m not doing to good right about now. Between having to move because of problems with my apartment, anxiety, depression, asthma, fibromyalgia and Hellish problems with MSN, who is charging me Double and doesn’t support any news servers for me, I am about to go insane. Not much left to live for. Raquel Before you buy.
I’m not doing to good right about now. Between having to move because of problems with my apartment, anxiety, depression, asthma, fibromyalgia and Hellish problems with MSN, who is charging me Double and doesn’t support any news servers for me, I am about to go insane. Not much left to live for. Raquel Before you buy.
Sweetie…. You have plenty to live for… Maybe this move will be one that energizes you. The other issues are hard to rid yourself of, but you know what? There is NO REASON you can’t enjoy life anyhow. MSN is a joke…I tell you what…we signed up for a free month, when we called to cancel (all 6 times) they gave us another free month. Tell them you have a beef and they usually suck up. Find another internet company. We are using prodigy and it was simple as could be. Also I know Juno offers free web service or their ‘premium’ service for only like 10 bucks a month. Not to worry about the news servers….go to deja (as much as I HATE deja) or newsone.com…that is where I posted when my email server wouldn’t work right. Just breathe sweetie…it will all get better. As for your asthma, what meds are you on? I had a lot of trouble with mine until I tried Singulair and it has made a world of difference. They put me on Azmacort (a steroid inhaler) and I never even use it now. I did right after my accident, but then when I stopped I noticed the singulair was going so good I didn’t really need to go back. During the move, take care of yourself. Take long baths after packing, light some candles that smell like your favorite flower and don’t forget to pamper yourself. It does wonders I promise I’m not doing to good right about now. Between having to move because of problems with my apartment, anxiety, depression, asthma, fibromyalgia and Hellish problems with MSN, who is charging me Double and doesn’t support any news servers for me, I am about to go insane. Not much left to live for. Raquel Before you buy.
Robin
I’m not doing to good right about now. Between having to move because of problems with my apartment, anxiety, depression, asthma, fibromyalgia and Hellish problems with MSN, who is charging me Double and doesn’t support any news servers for me, I am about to go insane. Not much left to live for. Raquel you have alot to live for. Are you ok? You have god and your husband.
Be positive. donny Confess your sins. Turn from your sins. Believe in your heart. Ask Jesus to save you.
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m not doing to good right about now. Between having to move because of problems with my apartment, anxiety, depression, asthma, fibromyalgia and Hellish problems with MSN, who is charging me Double and doesn’t support any news servers for me, I am about to go insane. Not much left to live for. Raquel you have alot to live for. Are you ok? You have god and your husband. Be positive. donny Confess your sins. Turn from your sins. Believe in your heart. Ask Jesus to save you. hI RAQUEL, you can download juno at juno.com and acess the newsgroups with
deja.com. You have alot to live for. Think of the people that would be affected if you werent around. will PRAY FOR YOU. donny Confess your sins. Turn from your sins. Believe in your heart. Ask Jesus to save you.
Raquel, Life is worth living… You are just experiencing a lot of problems at one time. Try to deal witheach one individually ad it does take some of the stress off your shoulders. smiles, elise
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m not doing to good right about now. Between having to move because of problems with my apartment, anxiety, depression, asthma, fibromyalgia and Hellish problems with MSN, who is charging me Double and doesn’t support any news servers for me, I am about to go insane. Not much left to live for. Raquel Before you buy.
writes: – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Two years ago my allergies really gave me trouble. The progression ended up with me getting pneumonia in April lasting two months until June. At the time I was 38 yrs old reasonably healthy jogging and taking karate up until I couldn’t breath after a run. I started to get sick and thought I had the Flu. But it held on and I went to the Dr. and I was diagnosed with pneumonia. I was really sick for about 2 weeks and off work for 2 months. I was referred to a Lung Specialist in the midst of all this and had the lung function test as well as sputum tests. He told me that I had asthma as a result of the pneumonia and some scarring in my lungs. He also said that the sputum tests show that I have a fungus in my lungs called Asperligosis (I hope spelling doesn’t count here) I was put on medications Pulmicort and Ventolin. Every morning about an hour or so after I get up I get tight in my chest and hack up some interesting samples of goo. I usually get it up in an hour or so and usually don’t need a shot of my ventolin. But I find now that I don’t have the wind like I had pre-pneumonia. QUESTION— Is the Asperligosis fungi causing my asthma to be worse? Is the fungus actually causing my asthma as I never had it before? Is there any medications out that can rid me of this fungus? I would appreciate any feed back anyone can give me. Thank you. Bob
Aspergillosis is a mold, causing infections in the external ear.Occasionally lesions appear in the skin,nasal sinuses,orbit,bronchi,lungs or other internal organs. Stanley Lepelstat Phramacy Consultant Easy access to homeopathy http://www.mja.net/accupathy Email your address for a free brochure on Homeopathy —
This past week, my doctor changed my Pulmicort and Oxeze to a trial of Symbicort 200 (200/6 ug 2 puffs, 2X daily, no change in previous dosing), a combined turbuhalor.
What country are you in? As far as I can tell, Symbicort is not available in the US. — (650) 236-2231 [daytime] http://www.wsrcc.com/alison/ CA voters, send a message: write-in "Richard Riordan" in November 2002.
I was diagnosed with adult onset asthma a few years ago. After much trial and error, I seemed to be doing fairly good on Pulmicort 400 mcg (2X daily), Oxeze 12 mcg (2X daily), Singulair, Nasonex (2X daily), Bricanyl as required, and Reactin Extra Strength (1X daily). The first of the year I started HRT because at just over 40 I’m menopausal having three natural periods in the past two years. Aside of the asthma and hormone problem, I have developed sinus flare ups and/or infections and am currently on antibiotics once again for a sinus infection. Along with this problem there has been a definite change in my asthma status. I am attributing the worsening status to: 1) sinus infection and post nasal drip, 2) horrible ragweed season and 3) extreme external stressors. Needless to say, I will be seeing a bit more of my doctor the next few weeks 
I’ve had little flare ups on and off for the past year but I almost forgot how tired and irritable more severe asthma flare ups can make you! I am so exhausted! This past week, my doctor changed my Pulmicort and Oxeze to a trial of Symbicort 200 (200/6 ug 2 puffs, 2X daily, no change in previous dosing), a combined turbuhalor. I must say that the Symbicort turbuhaler is even nicer to use than the Pulmicort and Oxeze turbuhalers. In terms of inhalations, it hasn’t changed anything for me because I have to take two puffs to get the proper dosing but it still is one less inhaler to cart around. The mouth piece is more stream lined and there is a numberical counter instead of just a window that eventually shows red when the medication is out.
Hi, My son & I are both on Paxil. I think it’s the best drug I’ve ever taken (so far), and it works very well on my son. For me, it has the least amount of side effects than Zoloft, Buspar & Luvox. Good luck, Mary – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -
I went to my GP today and he put me on Paxil, I was on prozac before. How have others felt on Paxil, is it any good, is it as good as Prozac, Will it have any adverse side effects. I’m a bit worried to be honest so all help appreciated thanks Smurf
"Smurf" <Smurf…@btinternet.com
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I went to my GP today and he put me on Paxil, I was on prozac before. How have others felt on Paxil, is it any good, is it as good as Prozac, Will
it
have any adverse side effects. I’m a bit worried to be honest so all help appreciated
It’s pretty similar to Prozac in many respects but for some people the *initial* side-effects seem to be a bit more dramatic. It has a much shorter half-life than Prozac which means that a week after you stop taking it, the drug will leave your body – Prozac can stay around for much longer. There isn’t too much difference between the 2 drugs. Gareth.
http://paxil.bizland.com/ check this out first. it works well but it’s hell on earth to get off it!!!! "Smurf" <Smurf…@btinternet.com
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I went to my GP today and he put me on Paxil, I was on prozac before. How have others felt on Paxil, is it any good, is it as good as Prozac, Will
it
have any adverse side effects. I’m a bit worried to be honest so all help appreciated thanks Smurf
Paxil helped me a lot more than Prozac ever did. The only bad problem I have ever had with Paxil is when I get a hair up my ass and decide not to take my medicine any more and tried to wean off of it. It is definitely a drug that has to be weaned from slowly. I’ve gotten very dizzy and had these shock like feelings going through my arms if I don’t take it. Ida Smurf <Smurf…@btinternet.com
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news:8si9ta$k6n$1@neptunium.btinternet.com… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -
I went to my GP today and he put me on Paxil, I was on prozac before. How have others felt on Paxil, is it any good, is it as good as Prozac, Will
it
have any adverse side effects. I’m a bit worried to be honest so all help appreciated thanks Smurf
Smurf wrote:
I went to my GP today and he put me on Paxil, I was on prozac before. How have others felt on Paxil, is it any good, is it as good as Prozac, Will it have any adverse side effects. I’m a bit worried to be honest so all help appreciated thanks Smurf
I know I’m starting to sound like a walking advertisement for Paxil, but it’s helped me a lot. I’ve never been on Prozac, so I can’t compare the two. I did have some side effects, but they faded pretty quickly. Can I ask why you’re switching from Prozac to Paxil, and what specifically is worrying you about it? Good luck! — Dave Hollinden david.hollin…@sdrc.com (work) dholl…@iglou.com (home)
I went to my GP today and he put me on Paxil, I was on prozac before. How have others felt on Paxil, is it any good, is it as good as Prozac, Will it have any adverse side effects. I’m a bit worried to be honest so all help appreciated thanks Smurf
Hi Tom, I am a wine-maker and get a lot of pleasure from making and drinking my own wine. Most medications (as far as I have seen), tell you to avoid alcohol (there, that’s my disclaimer <G) but I truly do enjoy a good glass of red 3/4 times a week. Several times I have even had (gasp!) 2 glasses of wine, but I draw the line there. What I have found is that I have no tolerance for alcohol -I either feel very sleepy or get quite giddy. I have not felt any after-effects the next day. My doctor is fully aware of my hobby.
I think most doctors automatically tell you not to drink, or very little, whether you’re on medication or not. But, for me too, when I’m on a benzo, alcohol has an increased effect, and a lot less of it goes a lot farther than I want. A lot of us self-medicate with alcohol as it is a CNS depressant sort of like benzo’s with a much shorter half-life and more dangerous side-effects. Listen to your body and you can probably tell is you can handle a little alcohol with the drugs or not. (Unless you are a substance abuser, that is.) Gordon Held
That seems to be the case. Too bad meds ALL have to say this. I had to take an antibiotic once with the same warning – but there it DID matter. WOW! Talk about am upset stomach! Yikes! So… a beer or two is cool. A good glass of cabernet even better! Cheers… Tom – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Tom, I am a wine-maker and get a lot of pleasure from making and drinking my own wine. Most medications (as far as I have seen), tell you to avoid alcohol (there, that’s my disclaimer <G) but I truly do enjoy a good glass of red 3/4 times a week. Several times I have even had (gasp!) 2 glasses of wine, but I draw the line there. What I have found is that I have no tolerance for alcohol -I either feel very sleepy or get quite giddy. I have not felt any after-effects the next day. My doctor is fully aware of my hobby. The times that I do not drink at all are the periods when my anxiety is extremely high and I am either levelling up on a medication or trying a new one or if the depression is very bad. Then I wait for a few months until I feel "balanced" again. BTW, I take a TCA daily and an occasional benzo when needed. If you are concerned about damage to your body, you could have your doctor do a liver function test. Cheers! Charley So… I want to understand… Does taking Buspar or Xanax, etc. forever disallow you from enjoying a beer or two with friends -something that has REALLY lifted my spirits in the past. I’ve battled this question myself several times and usually have the beer or wine, not to excess. But I WOULD like to know if it is TRULY harmful, in this VERY moderate way? Doctors will, of course, say no alcohol. Pharmacy, same thing. I understand. They have to cover their ass and the combination probably is not good (chemically speaking) but alcohol never is good for you anyway. Addictive people should NEVER cross the two! To that I agree. But, once you take some of the "fairly" harmless fun out of your life, your anxiety can go though the roof! I KNOW! Exercise is great. I do it myself regularly when I can. BUT… giving up those few beers with my friends FOREVER seems harsh! I drank twice (half bottle of wine once and a few beers another time) while on Buspar (5 mg/twice day) and Xanax (1 mg 2-3 times a day). All I noticed is I had a good time, might have slept TOO well, and maybe a little more groggy getting up. So what! Took a shower and went back to my daily, fairly healthy grind! Probably a week or two later I may have done the same thing. I have a high tolerance to drugs (Found out the hard way after an appendectomy!). That’s just "my" body chemistry. Just curious if I’m crazy or not? Please no preachy non alcohol speeches. I’d just like to know what the REAL danger here is. Maybe we should all just go to http://www.beer.com and send each other a "virtual" beer! It’s really there! Someone else can start that tradition. Any takers? Tom …do not mix very well. i went a little nuts lastnight and drank a couple quarts of beer, felt fine til i woke up this morning, now i’m wondering if i have done long lasting damage to my body!!!!! uggggh. 15mg 2x a day and 3 quarts of pabst, you think i will live? needless to say i’m not doing that again. "Remember, when someone annoys you that it takes 42 muscles to frown, but it only takes 4 muscles to extend your arm and whack them in the head." http://members.aol.com/unfun26/enter.htm
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – So… I want to understand… Does taking Buspar or Xanax, etc. forever disallow you from enjoying a beer or two with friends -something that has REALLY lifted my spirits in the past. I’ve battled this question myself several times and usually have the beer or wine, not to excess. But I WOULD like to know if it is TRULY harmful, in this VERY moderate way? Doctors will, of course, say no alcohol. Pharmacy, same thing. I understand. They have to cover their ass and the combination probably is not good (chemically speaking) but alcohol never is good for you anyway. Addictive people should NEVER cross the two! To that I agree. But, once you take some of the "fairly" harmless fun out of your life, your anxiety can go though the roof! I KNOW! Exercise is great. I do it myself regularly when I can. BUT… giving up those few beers with my friends FOREVER seems harsh! I drank twice (half bottle of wine once and a few beers another time) while on Buspar (5 mg/twice day) and Xanax (1 mg 2-3 times a day). All I noticed is I had a good time, might have slept TOO well, and maybe a little more groggy getting up. So what! Took a shower and went back to my daily, fairly healthy grind! Probably a week or two later I may have done the same thing. I have a high tolerance to drugs (Found out the hard way after an appendectomy!). That’s just "my" body chemistry. Just curious if I’m crazy or not? Please no preachy non alcohol speeches. I’d just like to know what the REAL danger here is. Tom
If you react well to it there should be no problem in moderate drinking, although it’s better not to do it on a daily basis. I often drink a few glasses of wine myself and have done so on 375 different meds and I’m still around with the ol’ liver still intact. *Moderation* is the keyword here though. Interaction with benzos: alcohol and benzos both are CNS depressants which means that they may enhance each other’s effects: in other words, you may get drunk sooner or be more sedated than others. Hangovers may consist of PA’s. I’m not familiar with the exact interaction with Buspar but I do know that except with MAOI’s, AD’s can be taken while drinking a few glasses of wine/beer. My pdoc doesn’t mind me drinking as he knows I’m not going to be a alcoholic. Philip – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – …do not mix very well. i went a little nuts lastnight and drank a couple quarts of beer, felt fine til i woke up this morning, now i’m wondering if i have done long lasting damage to my body!!!!! uggggh. 15mg 2x a day and 3 quarts of pabst, you think i will live? needless to say i’m not doing that again. "Remember, when someone annoys you that it takes 42 muscles to frown, but it only takes 4 muscles to extend your arm and whack them in the head." http://members.aol.com/unfun26/enter.htm
So… I want to understand… Does taking Buspar or Xanax, etc. forever disallow you from enjoying a beer or two with friends -something that has REALLY lifted my spirits in the past. I’ve battled this question myself several times and usually have the beer or wine, not to excess. But I WOULD like to know if it is TRULY harmful, in this VERY moderate way? Doctors will, of course, say no alcohol. Pharmacy, same thing. I understand. They have to cover their ass and the combination probably is not good (chemically speaking) but alcohol never is good for you anyway. Addictive people should NEVER cross the two! To that I agree. But, once you take some of the "fairly" harmless fun out of your life, your anxiety can go though the roof! I KNOW! Exercise is great. I do it myself regularly when I can. BUT… giving up those few beers with my friends FOREVER seems harsh! I drank twice (half bottle of wine once and a few beers another time) while on Buspar (5 mg/twice day) and Xanax (1 mg 2-3 times a day). All I noticed is I had a good time, might have slept TOO well, and maybe a little more groggy getting up. So what! Took a shower and went back to my daily, fairly healthy grind! Probably a week or two later I may have done the same thing. I have a high tolerance to drugs (Found out the hard way after an appendectomy!). That’s just "my" body chemistry. Just curious if I’m crazy or not? Please no preachy non alcohol speeches. I’d just like to know what the REAL danger here is. Maybe we should all just go to http://www.beer.com and send each other a "virtual" beer! It’s really there! Someone else can start that tradition. Any takers? Tom – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – …do not mix very well. i went a little nuts lastnight and drank a couple quarts of beer, felt fine til i woke up this morning, now i’m wondering if i have done long lasting damage to my body!!!!! uggggh. 15mg 2x a day and 3 quarts of pabst, you think i will live? needless to say i’m not doing that again. "Remember, when someone annoys you that it takes 42 muscles to frown, but it only takes 4 muscles to extend your arm and whack them in the head." http://members.aol.com/unfun26/enter.htm
Well, I’ve tried this a couple of times (I am on Xanax and Zoloft), and all that ever seemed to happen is that I had a hangover seemingly no matter what – sometimes even from 1 beer! Not kidding…That’s all it ever was like though…I’m not taking a ton of Xanax, though, so I don’t know… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – So… I want to understand… Does taking Buspar or Xanax, etc. forever disallow you from enjoying a beer or two with friends -something that has REALLY lifted my spirits in the past. I’ve battled this question myself several times and usually have the beer or wine, not to excess. But I WOULD like to know if it is TRULY harmful, in this VERY moderate way? Doctors will, of course, say no alcohol. Pharmacy, same thing. I understand. They have to cover their ass and the combination probably is not good (chemically speaking) but alcohol never is good for you anyway. Addictive people should NEVER cross the two! To that I agree. But, once you take some of the "fairly" harmless fun out of your life, your anxiety can go though the roof! I KNOW! Exercise is great. I do it myself regularly when I can. BUT… giving up those few beers with my friends FOREVER seems harsh! I drank twice (half bottle of wine once and a few beers another time) while on Buspar (5 mg/twice day) and Xanax (1 mg 2-3 times a day). All I noticed is I had a good time, might have slept TOO well, and maybe a little more groggy getting up. So what! Took a shower and went back to my daily, fairly healthy grind! Probably a week or two later I may have done the same thing. I have a high tolerance to drugs (Found out the hard way after an appendectomy!). That’s just "my" body chemistry. Just curious if I’m crazy or not? Please no preachy non alcohol speeches. I’d just like to know what the REAL danger here is. Maybe we should all just go to http://www.beer.com and send each other a "virtual" beer! It’s really there! Someone else can start that tradition. Any takers? Tom …do not mix very well. i went a little nuts lastnight and drank a couple quarts of beer, felt fine til i woke up this morning, now i’m wondering if i have done long lasting damage to my body!!!!! uggggh. 15mg 2x a day and 3 quarts of pabst, you think i will live? needless to say i’m not doing that again. "Remember, when someone annoys you that it takes 42 muscles to frown, but it only takes 4 muscles to extend your arm and whack them in the head." http://members.aol.com/unfun26/enter.htm
– Charles Phipps
…do not mix very well. i went a little nuts lastnight and drank a couple quarts of beer, felt fine til i woke up this morning, now i’m wondering if i have done long lasting damage to my body!!!!! uggggh. 15mg 2x a day and 3 quarts of pabst, you think i will live? needless to say i’m not doing that again. "Remember, when someone annoys you that it takes 42 muscles to frown, but it only takes 4 muscles to extend your arm and whack them in the head." http://members.aol.com/unfun26/enter.htm
I had a REAL BAD experience when I was a drinker and took Buspar. The two do not mix together well at all. I personally don’t approve of drinking while taking meds…end of story. But for those who do I say this…..Buspar and alcohol ARE dangerous. Be careful. You have to stop and ask yourself is drinking more important or is my health more important. Yes….alcohol causes health problems. I only wish the best for you. Xanman – Former Drunk, Junkie, Pill poppin’, Dope smokin’, Idiot! — A little insanity in an sane wolf. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – …do not mix very well. i went a little nuts lastnight and drank a couple quarts of beer, felt fine til i woke up this morning, now i’m wondering if i have done long lasting damage to my body!!!!! uggggh. 15mg 2x a day and 3 quarts of pabst, you think i will live? needless to say i’m not doing that again. "Remember, when someone annoys you that it takes 42 muscles to frown, but it only takes 4 muscles to extend your arm and whack them in the head." http://members.aol.com/unfun26/enter.htm
well DAMN, boy! i think the three quarts of pabst would do you in the next morning even without the buspar! – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -….do not mix very well. i went a little nuts lastnight and drank a couple quarts of beer, felt fine til i woke up this morning, now i’m wondering if i have done long lasting damage to my body!!!!! uggggh. 15mg 2x a day and 3 quarts of pabst, you think i will live? needless to say i’m not doing that again. "Remember, when someone annoys you that it takes 42 muscles to frown, but it only takes 4 muscles to extend your arm and whack them in the head." http://members.aol.com/unfun26/enter.htm
well DAMN, boy! i think the three quarts of pabst would do you in the next morning even without the buspar!
nah, i’m a professional drinker…… here’s my record for most alcohol consumed in an evening, it’s true i wrote it all down the next day, amazed myself even: 3 12oz cans of pabst 2 long island teas a martini 2 12 oz bottles of miller 1 screw driver 4 16 oz draft beers (unknown brand) 1 big margarita and a quart of pabst before bed and i didn’t even have a hangover, i was at work at 9 am on the dot. i wouldn’t lie "Remember, when someone annoys you that it takes 42 muscles to frown, but it only takes 4 muscles to extend your arm and whack them in the head." http://members.aol.com/unfun26/enter.htm
…do not mix very well. i went a little nuts lastnight and drank a couple quarts of beer, felt fine til i woke up this morning, now i’m wondering if i have done long lasting damage to my body!!!!! uggggh. 15mg 2x a day and 3 quarts of pabst, you think i will live? needless to say i’m not doing that again.
Been doing that lately my self. Watch – that it can truley mess you up. Do you feel it helps – albeit only temporarily? What about depression the next day? Terable? You’re so much better off when you do something physical. Working out helps. I guess that would include narly s-x too. Well i wish i could make that claim lately but i’m crossing a sand doon in the middle of the desert.. I know that soon along will come Ms or Mrs right, food and water! Maybe then i’ll be able to worry about somebody else’s life 1/2 as much as i do mine. Maybe i just need two women! Wo wo wo, i thought you were banned. Don’t know if we should be talking. Well i think the question now is do you think you learned what ever lesson that it was you should have been learning? Make people come to you. Screw them – it’ll happen.! In the mean time hold your head up and by all means just relax. ralph g
Wew that’s alot. But try climbing on top your roof and smoking two bowls of green bud on top of it all and then fall off the ladder. Still feeling that. I drank a lot more than you did though. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – well DAMN, boy! i think the three quarts of pabst would do you in the next morning even without the buspar! nah, i’m a professional drinker…… here’s my record for most alcohol consumed in an evening, it’s true i wrote it all down the next day, amazed myself even: 3 12oz cans of pabst 2 long island teas a martini 2 12 oz bottles of miller 1 screw driver 4 16 oz draft beers (unknown brand) 1 big margarita and a quart of pabst before bed and i didn’t even have a hangover, i was at work at 9 am on the dot. i wouldn’t lie "Remember, when someone annoys you that it takes 42 muscles to frown, but it only takes 4 muscles to extend your arm and whack them in the head." http://members.aol.com/unfun26/enter.htm
Been doing that lately my self. Watch – that it can truley mess you up. Do you feel it helps – albeit only temporarily? What about depression the next day? Terable?
i felt great while drinking, it was the next morning i had to pay though. i didn’t have one single bit of anxiety during the festivities. no depression the next day, just horrible shakes and headache, and a thought that i had hurt my brain beyond repair. You’re so much better off when you do something physical. Working out helps. I guess that would include narly s-x too.
working out is a good thing, well, i play soccer, and do a lot of walking, not really "working out" but it is exercise. sex is a bore and does nothing more than make life more complicated. oh well, i’ve sworn it off for now. Well i wish i could make that claim lately but i’m crossing a sand doon in the middle of the desert.. I know that soon along will come Ms or Mrs right, food and water! Maybe then i’ll be able to worry about somebody else’s life 1/2 as much as i do mine. Maybe i just need two women! Wo wo wo, i thought you were banned. Don’t know if we should be talking. Well i think the question now is do you think you learned what ever lesson that it was you should have been learning? Make people come to you. Screw them – it’ll happen.!
huh? the banned thing is because i was banned from a club in memphis for talking shite on them on my web page, it’s just an inside joke in a couple other news groups. In the mean time hold your head up and by all means just relax.
sure, that’s what i’m going for. "Remember, when someone annoys you that it takes 42 muscles to frown, but it only takes 4 muscles to extend your arm and whack them in the head." http://members.aol.com/unfun26/enter.htm
Was only wondering. Don’t mix meds and alcohol! Not good for you and in most cases it’s antagonistic in it’s effects. I RARELY even mix a little g.bud with it. Come down and by all means don’t add to the problem! I never have any anxiety while drinking but i never need help with that, med wise. I don’t even like mixing analgisics with my hang over! You bought it you pay for it. PAY AS YOU GO! Leave your chemistry alone And sex is a bore? What? <biting toung to keep from commenting See ya, gotta go now. Sex a bore? It’s always a bore if you’re lucky! Thanks for the explain- on the banned thing. Avoided that as much as possible. Was there something you wanted to add? Talking s–t on yo web page? Not cooo if you ask me. I knew there was an alterior motive to your madness Later! – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Been doing that lately my self. Watch – that it can truley mess you up. Do you feel it helps – albeit only temporarily? What about depression the next day? Terable? i felt great while drinking, it was the next morning i had to pay though. i didn’t have one single bit of anxiety during the festivities. no depression the next day, just horrible shakes and headache, and a thought that i had hurt my brain beyond repair. You’re so much better off when you do something physical. Working out helps. I guess that would include narly s-x too. working out is a good thing, well, i play soccer, and do a lot of walking, not really "working out" but it is exercise. sex is a bore and does nothing more than make life more complicated. oh well, i’ve sworn it off for now. Well i wish i could make that claim lately but i’m crossing a sand doon in the middle of the desert.. I know that soon along will come Ms or Mrs right, food and water! Maybe then i’ll be able to worry about somebody else’s life 1/2 as much as i do mine. Maybe i just need two women! Wo wo wo, i thought you were banned. Don’t know if we should be talking. Well i think the question now is do you think you learned what ever lesson that it was you should have been learning? Make people come to you. Screw them – it’ll happen.! huh? the banned thing is because i was banned from a club in memphis for talking shite on them on my web page, it’s just an inside joke in a couple other news groups. In the mean time hold your head up and by all means just relax. sure, that’s what i’m going for. "Remember, when someone annoys you that it takes 42 muscles to frown, but it only takes 4 muscles to extend your arm and whack them in the head." http://members.aol.com/unfun26/enter.htm
Hi Tom, I am a wine-maker and get a lot of pleasure from making and drinking my own wine. Most medications (as far as I have seen), tell you to avoid alcohol (there, that’s my disclaimer <G) but I truly do enjoy a good glass of red 3/4 times a week. Several times I have even had (gasp!) 2 glasses of wine, but I draw the line there. What I have found is that I have no tolerance for alcohol -I either feel very sleepy or get quite giddy. I have not felt any after-effects the next day. My doctor is fully aware of my hobby. The times that I do not drink at all are the periods when my anxiety is extremely high and I am either levelling up on a medication or trying a new one or if the depression is very bad. Then I wait for a few months until I feel "balanced" again. BTW, I take a TCA daily and an occasional benzo when needed. If you are concerned about damage to your body, you could have your doctor do a liver function test. Cheers! Charley
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – So… I want to understand… Does taking Buspar or Xanax, etc. forever disallow you from enjoying a beer or two with friends -something that has REALLY lifted my spirits in the past. I’ve battled this question myself several times and usually have the beer or wine, not to excess. But I WOULD like to know if it is TRULY harmful, in this VERY moderate way? Doctors will, of course, say no alcohol. Pharmacy, same thing. I understand. They have to cover their ass and the combination probably is not good (chemically speaking) but alcohol never is good for you anyway. Addictive people should NEVER cross the two! To that I agree. But, once you take some of the "fairly" harmless fun out of your life, your anxiety can go though the roof! I KNOW! Exercise is great. I do it myself regularly when I can. BUT… giving up those few beers with my friends FOREVER seems harsh! I drank twice (half bottle of wine once and a few beers another time) while on Buspar (5 mg/twice day) and Xanax (1 mg 2-3 times a day). All I noticed is I had a good time, might have slept TOO well, and maybe a little more groggy getting up. So what! Took a shower and went back to my daily, fairly healthy grind! Probably a week or two later I may have done the same thing. I have a high tolerance to drugs (Found out the hard way after an appendectomy!). That’s just "my" body chemistry. Just curious if I’m crazy or not? Please no preachy non alcohol speeches. I’d just like to know what the REAL danger here is. Maybe we should all just go to http://www.beer.com and send each other a "virtual" beer! It’s really there! Someone else can start that tradition. Any takers? Tom …do not mix very well. i went a little nuts lastnight and drank a couple quarts of beer, felt fine til i woke up this morning, now i’m wondering if i have done long lasting damage to my body!!!!! uggggh. 15mg 2x a day and 3 quarts of pabst, you think i will live? needless to say i’m not doing that again. "Remember, when someone annoys you that it takes 42 muscles to frown, but it only takes 4 muscles to extend your arm and whack them in the head." http://members.aol.com/unfun26/enter.htm
what your experiencing are panic attacks, i get them quite often. i take st. johns wart to help me relax. jamie
Hi! My name is Tracy and I had my first anxiety attack a few months ago. I woke up and felt I was having a heart attack: fast heart beat, sweating, numbness in my right arm, so bad I had to keep it elevated (thinking is would help the circulation. I even went as far as dialing 911 just in case I dropped dead – I figured it would be the last thing I would hit….thinking it was the end. Well when I woke up the next morning, happy to be alive, I played with fate, was a lucky person. and really believed I fought a heart was on my way home when those "heart attack symptons" reoccured, only in my mind I played with fate once before and new something was seriously wrong even thought as far as of going to the hospital, but figured it would pass by to go….where she asked. and me a person who hates going to the dr. insisted we go to the hospital immediately. Of coarse getting everyone panicked, we were off to the hospital which was fifteen minutes away. I didn’t think i was going to make it. We arrived at the Hospital and they admitted me immediately and ran an ekg, and took blood, even a cardiologist came and took blood. While waiting for my results the doctor thought that I was just having an axiety attack (yeah right I thought) he later confirmed that it was indeed a axiety attack and that I was hyperventilating. (i disagreed – I did not think I was breathing out of control – I know what hyperventilating is) My carbon dioxide level and oxygen levels were high and low wich gives you that dizzy feeling. The worse that could of happened was that I passed out. He gave me a prescription and that was it – that was about 5 months ago. 3. I just had my third axiety attack while out was friends on Saturday….once again happy to be alive and still wonder if my doctor is correct – am I really having axiety attacks or am I having heart problems and because I’m only 31 he won’t pursue more detailed testing. I don’t want to die – And I know I’m not crazy. I am glad to know i’m not the only one who gets these attacks. I felt better only when I read other people’s experiences. So many friends don’t understand what it feels like, so to read someone else’s experience makes me feel not reality this is really really short.
Hi Tracy, welcome to our NG!! You are definitely not alone, everyone here is battling against an anxiety disorder of some sort. I myself experienced symptoms which mirror those you have described. I thought I had some sort of heart dysfunction or defect that was going to kill me at any instant. I woke up in the night with it, delt with it in social situations and when I was alone…it really was terrifying. After a complete physical and cardiac examination (by the head of the cardiology dept. in the largest hospital in my province) nothing could be found…I was only 21 yrs old. Well, three years later here I am, alive!!! The only thing is that I am trying to live with Panic Disorder!!! My medication allows me to live a fairly normal life, despite the occasional unexplained anxiety, which I guess is normal. Good luck to you and try to participate in the group I have found it very beneficial!!! all the best jason – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi! My name is Tracy and I had my first anxiety attack a few months ago. I woke up and felt I was having a heart attack: fast heart beat, sweating, numbness in my right arm, so bad I had to keep it elevated (thinking is would help the circulation. I even went as far as dialing 911 just in case I dropped dead – I figured it would be the last thing I would hit….thinking it was the end. Well when I woke up the next morning, happy to be alive, I played with fate, was a lucky person. and really believed I fought a heart was on my way home when those "heart attack symptons" reoccured, only in my mind I played with fate once before and new something was seriously wrong even thought as far as of going to the hospital, but figured it would pass by to go….where she asked. and me a person who hates going to the dr. insisted we go to the hospital immediately. Of coarse getting everyone panicked, we were off to the hospital which was fifteen minutes away. I didn’t think i was going to make it. We arrived at the Hospital and they admitted me immediately and ran an ekg, and took blood, even a cardiologist came and took blood. While waiting for my results the doctor thought that I was just having an axiety attack (yeah right I thought) he later confirmed that it was indeed a axiety attack and that I was hyperventilating. (i disagreed – I did not think I was breathing out of control – I know what hyperventilating is) My carbon dioxide level and oxygen levels were high and low wich gives you that dizzy feeling. The worse that could of happened was that I passed out. He gave me a prescription and that was it – that was about 5 months ago. 3. I just had my third axiety attack while out was friends on Saturday….once again happy to be alive and still wonder if my doctor is correct – am I really having axiety attacks or am I having heart problems and because I’m only 31 he won’t pursue more detailed testing. I don’t want to die – And I know I’m not crazy. I am glad to know i’m not the only one who gets these attacks. I felt better only when I read other people’s experiences. So many friends don’t understand what it feels like, so to read someone else’s experience makes me feel not reality this is really really short.
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi! My name is Tracy and I had my first anxiety attack a few months ago. I woke up and felt I was having a heart attack: fast heart beat, sweating, numbness in my right arm, so bad I had to keep it elevated (thinking is would help the circulation. I even went as far as dialing 911 just in case I dropped dead – I figured it would be the last thing I would hit….thinking it was the end. Well when I woke up the next morning, happy to be alive, I played with fate, was a lucky person. and really believed I fought a heart was on my way home when those "heart attack symptons" reoccured, only in my mind I played with fate once before and new something was seriously wrong even thought as far as of going to the hospital, but figured it would pass by to go….where she asked. and me a person who hates going to the dr. insisted we go to the hospital immediately. Of coarse getting everyone panicked, we were off to the hospital which was fifteen minutes away. I didn’t think i was going to make it. We arrived at the Hospital and they admitted me immediately and ran an ekg, and took blood, even a cardiologist came and took blood. While waiting for my results the doctor thought that I was just having an axiety attack (yeah right I thought) he later confirmed that it was indeed a axiety attack and that I was hyperventilating. (i disagreed – I did not think I was breathing out of control – I know what hyperventilating is) My carbon dioxide level and oxygen levels were high and low wich gives you that dizzy feeling. The worse that could of happened was that I passed out. He gave me a prescription and that was it – that was about 5 months ago. 3. I just had my third axiety attack while out was friends on Saturday….once again happy to be alive and still wonder if my doctor is correct – am I really having axiety attacks or am I having heart problems and because I’m only 31 he won’t pursue more detailed testing. I don’t want to die – And I know I’m not crazy. I am glad to know i’m not the only one who gets these attacks. I felt better only when I read other people’s experiences. So many friends don’t understand what it feels like, so to read someone else’s experience makes me feel not reality this is really really short.
What you desecribe is the classic beginning of Panic Disorder. Yes, you have panic attacks. The thing to do is see a psychiatrist who is specialized in anxiety disorders (is there a university clinic in your area? often a good bet), get properly diagnosed and prescribed some meds. I’m sorry to welcome you to ASAP, the club nobody wants to belong to but everybody is glad exists 
) Philip
Hi. I am also a new comer to this group. Let me tell you a little about what I have gone through. After my daughter (I was 25 ) was born 23 years ago I started to feel the same way you did, losing my breath, feeling very weird like I was losing my mind and completely out of contro. So I also went to the doctor and he told me I was having a panic attack and maybe I needed to take some time off work. I did but the panic attacks were still happening. I got to a point where I didn’t want to go anywhere (and that is not me I love to go out and have fun). So after going to the doctor a million times and to the emergency room because I thought I was having a heart attack or I had some other life threatening disease, I finally read some books and told myself I tired of this and I want it to stop. So with the help of medication called Tranxene and a lot of hard work on my part I finally felt better. It took me a long time. Now 20 years later my attacks have come back. (I’m trying to keep this short) I think the reason is this. A year and half ago my husband at 46 suffered a massive heart attack. He is doing fine, but it was the worst thing I have ever gone through. I held up pretty well until 6 months later. I started driving to work, my hands and feet got clammy I started to get that weird feeling of losing control and burst into tears. I was so scared to drive. I finally called my boss and had him drive me to the doctor. It was the same thing panic attack!! He put me on Tranxene (I am not a very good pill taker). I have been on it since last May. I stopped taking it about 2 weeks ago and just 3 days ago I started those feelings. So I am going to take it regularly and get myself back on track. I have been to a shrink and I got nothing out of it. I have found that having someone to talk to and keeping myself busy helps. The problem with me is I worry about everyone and think I can fix the world. I have been where you are and I know you will be ok. It’s just so frightening. I hope I have helped you in some way and if you every want to talk more e-mail me. Nothing like this was every available when I first started my panic attacks and being able to talk to someone and knowing they have felt the same way you have does help. I wish you the best and do know you are ok. I have to remember to think positive.. Take care…
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi I’m a new comer to this group & was wondering if I could get some explanation as to what a panic attack is. I guess I can start off by saying what I have experienced & go from there. I’ll try to keep it short. About a year ago while driving to work (at night, I work midnights) I started losing my breath, feeling very wierd, my arms were going numb, thoughts of wanting to kill myself (which is definately not me!!) i thought i was having a heart attack (I’m 39 now) I made it to work but was to shakey i couldnt cope, went home but was just dazed & confused. I went to my doctor & she said i had a panic attack. I had one similar several days afterwards but wasnt as bad and i tried hard to control myself, after all both times I was driving!! So that was it, back to the doctor & have been on 50mg of Zoloft since. Now I was supposed to start weening off the zoloft this month & what happens, I have one of these attacks at work. So now i’m still on it. I am going to go see a shrink I guess, i dont want it to get worse, I’m getting to the point where I am almost scared of driving & going to work. I feel very strongly that it is my midnight shift that is doing this to me, because I cant think of anything else that it could be. Is there anyone else out there that works nights that is going through this?? The zoloft is good though & i have been very reassured that it is a safe drug to stay on for many years if needed, but i would like to get off it. If anyone has taken the time to read my long storey get back to me with your storey or thoughts I would appreciate it. Thanks & think positive!!!
Hi Frank, Welcome to ASAP! A panic attack can be a very individual thing. Your attack does sound like a Panic attack. Mine are different, I get very hot, flushed, dizzy, off-balance, shaky, can`t concentrate and tingling sensations in my fingers. I think I either am going to die or go crazy. I think you should see a Pdoc, one that is knowledgeable in anxiety disorders. CBT therapy is a very good compliment with medication. You might want to give serious thought to increasing your Zoloft dose. You are on a very low therapeutic dose, and you are experiencing alot of discomfort still. You might want to get a script for a benzo to be used on a "as needed" basis. Doing CBT, increasing your Zoloft and getting a benzo, could really get you back on your feet again. Yes, you can stay on Zoloft for a long time. About getting off meds, first you need to get better and be better for awhile, before you think of getting off meds. Some of us need meds for the rest of our lives, others need it on and off, depending on setbacks and remissions, and then there are some that are on meds for awhile, get off the meds, and never need them again. Unfortunately, you won`t know, until you go off I am not sure that the night shift "caused" your anxiety, although it could be a contributing factor. I use to work the graveyard shift in a nursing home, and I didn`t like the way it made me feel. It wasn`t anxiety, I just felt off. After a few months I begged to get off that shift, and I felt much better. If you can, change your hours, maybe a note from your doctor could help with that. Take Care and good luck!! Jackie
Hi I’m a new comer to this group & was wondering if I could get some explanation as to what a panic attack is. I guess I can start off by saying what I have experienced & go from there. I’ll try to keep it short. About a year ago while driving to work (at night, I work midnights) I started losing my breath, feeling very wierd, my arms were going numb, thoughts of wanting to kill myself (which is definately not me!!) i thought i was having a heart attack (I’m 39 now) I made it to work but was to shakey i couldnt cope, went home but was just dazed & confused. I went to my doctor & she said i had a panic attack. I had one similar several days afterwards but wasnt as bad and i tried hard to control myself, after all both times I was driving!! So that was it, back to the doctor & have been on 50mg of Zoloft since. Now I was supposed to start weening off the zoloft this month & what happens, I have one of these attacks at work. So now i’m still on it. I am going to go see a shrink I guess, i dont want it to get worse, I’m getting to the point where I am almost scared of driving & going to work. I feel very strongly that it is my midnight shift that is doing this to me, because I cant think of anything else that it could be. Is there anyone else out there that works nights that is going through this?? The zoloft is good though & i have been very reassured that it is a safe drug to stay on for many years if needed, but i would like to get off it. If anyone has taken the time to read my long storey get back to me with your storey or thoughts I would appreciate it. Thanks & think positive!!!
Frank, My first anxiety attack was about 5 1/2 years ago while I was driving. Like you I thought I was having a heart attack. I didn’t want to kill myself but was sure I must be dying. I had a lot of stresses in my life at that time so once I realized that it was anxiety attacks I was having I did go to a therapist. I also take Zoloft. I started at 50 mg but have decreased it to 25 mg. I have tried to wean off it several times and each time I have a panic attack. I don’t like taking meds all the time but I believe it is better than going through the feelings of panic and constant anxiety. So who knows how long I will take this stuff. I feel pretty good when I am on it. I do have times when I don’t feel as well but everyone has good and bad days whether or not they have PA’s. Do you have any particular stressful things going on in your life? Or did you when the panic attacks started? It might be a good idea to find a pdoc who specializes in anxiety who can help you to recognize possible triggers. The one thing about panic attacks is that they seem to strike "out of the blue" and that is the most frustrating part about them. Because you don’t know when you’ll have one you sometimes start to avoid situations where you had one before. (Like driving, grocery shopping, eating in a restaurant) It is a vicious (sp?) circle but you know what? You are NOT ALONE. And you will get through them. Good luck and keep us posted. Nori — Posted via Talkway – http://www.talkway.com Exchange ideas on practically anything ™.
The zoloft is good though & i have been very reassured that it is a safe drug to stay on for many years if needed, but i would like to get off it.
Frank, Is medication the only way you are managing? Not that I am knocking it! I am using three different meds, myself. But I am also doing something that I did not do the last time I was in remission from panic. I am now making the effort to learn Cognitive Behavioral techniques. A few years ago, the med of my dreams rid me of Panic, General Anxiety and Agoraphobia for just over a year. But it did not last, I started having breakthrough attacks and didn’t have the skills that I have since gained in controlling the symptoms. Changing my thoughts, correcting my breathing, muscular relaxation and slowing my heart beat are things I have become pretty good at, but not perfect. And there are many more symptoms that I must work with. I would just like to suggest that you get yourself some long lasting coping skills before going off of your med. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has worked for so many. Some without any meds. But I believe combining the two is very powerful. My two cents and wishing you well, Kathryn
Hi Frank, The following a criteria for panic attacks recently distributed in a brochure to Australian GPs A discrete period of intense fear or discomfort, in which four (or more) of the following symptoms developed abruptly and reached a peak within 10 minutes: palpitations, pounding heart, or accelerated heart rate sweating trembling or shaking sensations of shortness of breath or smothering feeling of choking chest pain or discomfort nausea or abdominal distress feeling dizzy, unsteady, lightheaded, or faint feelings of unreality or being detached from oneself feelings of losing control or going crazy fear of dying paraesthesia (numbness or tingling sensation) chills or hot flushes I reckon I have experienced each and every one of these! Given that your symptoms are recurring I suggest that you discuss your medication, dosage, with your doctor. It doesn’t sound like a good time to wean off. I am also experiencing a recurrence of some symptoms, in particular situations, so my medication is being reviewed. I guess where lucky that our conditions are treatable. Take care, Meryl
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi I’m a new comer to this group & was wondering if I could get some explanation as to what a panic attack is. I guess I can start off by saying what I have experienced & go from there. I’ll try to keep it short. About a year ago while driving to work (at night, I work midnights) I started losing my breath, feeling very wierd, my arms were going numb, thoughts of wanting to kill myself (which is definately not me!!) i thought i was having a heart attack (I’m 39 now) I made it to work but was to shakey i couldnt cope, went home but was just dazed & confused. I went to my doctor & she said i had a panic attack. I had one similar several days afterwards but wasnt as bad and i tried hard to control myself, after all both times I was driving!! So that was it, back to the doctor & have been on 50mg of Zoloft since. Now I was supposed to start weening off the zoloft this month & what happens, I have one of these attacks at work. So now i’m still on it. I am going to go see a shrink I guess, i dont want it to get worse, I’m getting to the point where I am almost scared of driving & going to work. I feel very strongly that it is my midnight shift that is doing this to me, because I cant think of anything else that it could be. Is there anyone else out there that works nights that is going through this?? The zoloft is good though & i have been very reassured that it is a safe drug to stay on for many years if needed, but i would like to get off it. If anyone has taken the time to read my long storey get back to me with your storey or thoughts I would appreciate it. Thanks & think positive!!!
Hi all, and thanks in advance for reading…. I am new to this. I need help. I feel like disappearing. I have been on Efexor 70Mg for 14 months, and I’m coming off. I’ve had enough of not feeling better. No, I’m not seeing a psychiatrist – but , I think I should. My doctor is relatively new to this type of disorder. I have been diagnosed with Major Depression. I want to start taking "Hypericum – St John’s Wort", as I have heard that it is good. After 2 weeks of trying to ween myself off Efexor, I am not coping very well. My body is screaming on the inside. My heart keeps hiccuping, I’m sweating, shaking and my mood is going up and down like the pedals on a bike going downhill. I don’t know if this is normal for someone coming off medication like this. Last night I had my very first serious suicidal thoughts. I managed to talk myself out of doing silly things. I was driving my car, and wanted to drive into a pole. I’m so scared. Can someone please help me. I really need it. I’m in Perth, Australia. If anyone knows of support groups, please tell me. help. lynn
Dear Lynn, Please, call your Dr. immediately!….withdrawal from any med can be *dangerous*!…..especially without a Dr’s supervision….if your Doc is unavailable, call an ER, tell them what’s going on and ask if you should come in….and if your Dr is not familiar with the treatment you’re receiving from him/her..Get A New One…preferablly a Psychiatrist…or Psycopharmacoligist… Also, DO NOT take the St. John’s Wort while on any A/D…this, too can be dangerous.. You sound like a very intelligent person and I hope you’ll heed my advice…..please keep posting and let us know how you’re doing..OK? Regards, Cece – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all, and thanks in advance for reading…. I am new to this. I need help. I feel like disappearing. I have been on Efexor 70Mg for 14 months, and I’m coming off. I’ve had enough of not feeling better. No, I’m not seeing a psychiatrist – but , I think I should. My doctor is relatively new to this type of disorder. I have been diagnosed with Major Depression. I want to start taking "Hypericum – St John’s Wort", as I have heard that it is good. After 2 weeks of trying to ween myself off Efexor, I am not coping very well. My body is screaming on the inside. My heart keeps hiccuping, I’m sweating, shaking and my mood is going up and down like the pedals on a bike going downhill. I don’t know if this is normal for someone coming off medication like this. Last night I had my very first serious suicidal thoughts. I managed to talk myself out of doing silly things. I was driving my car, and wanted to drive into a pole. I’m so scared. Can someone please help me. I really need it. I’m in Perth, Australia. If anyone knows of support groups, please tell me. help. lynn
CelestialSurvivor — "When reality is too harsh, the ridiculous often becomes the sublime." :me "They’re not problems, they’re just solutions we haven’t found yet.":also me
Lynn, You really should talk to a doctor before you stop taking a med like this. I have hear of others who went off a med and then that med never working for them again. You may not have thought the med was going anything, but it must have been helping some. There are many different antidepressants that the doctor can try. Each person is different and needs a different one and different dose, but the doctor cant tell what you need, so you have to just keep trying till one works. I am in the USA so I don’t know of any groups, but we are here if you need some support. Good Luck, Penny – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all, and thanks in advance for reading…. I am new to this. I need help. I feel like disappearing. I have been on Efexor 70Mg for 14 months, and I’m coming off. I’ve had enough of not feeling better. No, I’m not seeing a psychiatrist – but , I think I should. My doctor is relatively new to this type of disorder. I have been diagnosed with Major Depression. I want to start taking "Hypericum – St John’s Wort", as I have heard that it is good. After 2 weeks of trying to ween myself off Efexor, I am not coping very well. My body is screaming on the inside. My heart keeps hiccuping, I’m sweating, shaking and my mood is going up and down like the pedals on a bike going downhill. I don’t know if this is normal for someone coming off medication like this. Last night I had my very first serious suicidal thoughts. I managed to talk myself out of doing silly things. I was driving my car, and wanted to drive into a pole. I’m so scared. Can someone please help me. I really need it. I’m in Perth, Australia. If anyone knows of support groups, please tell me. help. lynn
Dear Lynn, Please, call your Dr. immediately!….withdrawal from any med can be *dangerous*!…..especially without a Dr’s supervision….if your Doc is unavailable, call an ER, tell them what’s going on and ask if you should come in….and if your Dr is not familiar with the treatment you’re receiving from him/her..Get A New One…preferablly a Psychiatrist…or Psycopharmacoligist…
It’s okay. I am under a Doctor’s supervision. He has suggested that I ween myself off the meds. I will be calling him today to "talk" and tell him about these most wonderful side effects. Also, DO NOT take the St. John’s Wort while on any A/D…this, too can be dangerous..
Sokay! Not taking a/d’s. I haven’t had any Efexor since Monday morning. So, here, that’s 5 days! Has anyone had any experience with St John’s Wort? You sound like a very intelligent person and I hope you’ll heed my
advice…..please keep posting and let us know how you’re doing..OK?Why thank you! I’m feeling a lot
better at the moment. There’s no tears pouring out of my eyes! I’ll see how I go. I’m fairly sure that this afternoon it will be a different story. I would also like to thank all those people that emailed me, and replied to the group. I didn’t realise there was such wonderful people around. Thanks. I know that I should probably go and see a psychiatrist. But, I can’t afford it. I guess I’ll just have to keep eating Orange Tic-Tacs until I feel great again. (Although, I did read that Nutella can give multiple oral orgasms! – it’s just a pity it’s fattening!). You know, I never really knew how good it felt to talk to complete strangers about this. It’s good therapy. I hope that there are people out there that don’t just think that this Aussie is just dribbling on. Well, okay, so I am. But I like it. %^) Thanks again everyone, for listening, and responding. Lynnee
Sokay! Not taking a/d’s. I haven’t had any Efexor since Monday morning. So, here, that’s 5 days! Has anyone had any experience with St John’s Wort?
I took St. John’s Wort for about three months and it did help a small bit, but it wasn’t really enough to help me much. I knew it was doing something because I didn’t go up and down as hard, but I was still miserable. Iv’e been on 20mg of Paxil for about three weeks now and it is much, much more effective so far.
Sokay! Not taking a/d’s. I haven’t had any Efexor since Monday morning. So, here, that’s 5 days! Has anyone had any experience with St John’s Wort?
<raising hand I do! I actually took it while I was on Effexor in the hopes of boosting it. I’m not sure it did anything at all. I took it for about six months, then just kind of ran out and never bought any more about 3 months ago. I noticed no difference. I do know that SJW on its own is really only effective for mild to moderate depression, so if yours is more severe (as mine is) it may not be the drug for you. Upping my Effexor dose (I’m now on 300mg/day) and adding another med (Risperdal) turned out to help me a ton. I don’t mean to sound negative about SJW, I think it works for some people. I’ll be interested to hear what your experience is. Why thank you! I’m feeling a lot better at the moment. There’s no tears pouring out of my eyes! I’ll see how I go. I’m fairly sure that this afternoon it will be a different story.
How are you doing today? I know that I should probably go and see a psychiatrist. But, I can’t afford it. I guess I’ll just have to keep eating Orange Tic-Tacs until I feel great again. (Although, I did read that Nutella can give multiple oral orgasms! – it’s just a pity it’s fattening!).
Multiple oral orgasms!! BAHAHA!! You know, I’ve been here and at first in asd for a year now, and I STILL haven’t tried Nutella! Keep meaning to, but given that I’ve been putting on enough weight without it, I don’t think I should be adding it to my diet. Maybe someday… I hope that there are people out there that don’t just think that this Aussie is just dribbling on. Well, okay, so I am. But I like it. %^)
I like it too! Trust me, dribbling on happens all the time here. Nice to meet you, Lynn! Mary
Just for the record, I think playing with our meds is a bad idea, if for no other reason that the disease itself alters our cognitive ablilities and our ability to make good decisions. Just for everyone’s info however, a short history of my medication: When to a general practitioner, had a hard time talking with him, he gave me a prescription for Paxil that I took for several months. The Paxil weirdly enough seem to make a difference right away, then its effectiveness immediately fell off. I went to see a Psychiatrist who prescribed Zoloft for depression and Xanax for the panic attacks. When the Zoloft alone was not working, we added Wellbutrin. With the Wellbutrin I went through a short period of aggression, was better for awhile, and then that combination seemed to lose its effectiveness as well. Then I stopped drinking entirely and around the same time started taking 300mg of Effexor daily. The Effexor has stabilized my emotions and mind remarkably. Each day it seems to work for me I count as a blessing. I tried St. Johns Wort, but it seemed to increase my blood pressure and actually made me more depressed. My whole point is that working with a qualified doctor over a long period of time, we found a medication that has made a real difference in my life. cupojoe
: : Sokay! Not taking a/d’s. I haven’t had any Efexor since Monday morning. So, : here, that’s 5 days! Has anyone had any experience with St John’s Wort? : :<raising hand I do! I actually took it while I was on Effexor in the hopes of boosting :it. I’m not sure it did anything at all. I took it for about six months, then just kind 
f ran out and never bought any more about 3 months ago. I noticed no difference. I do :know that SJW on its own is really only effective for mild to moderate depression, so :if yours is more severe (as mine is) it may not be the drug for you. Upping my Effexor :dose (I’m now on 300mg/day) and adding another med (Risperdal) turned out to help me a :ton. : :I don’t mean to sound negative about SJW, I think it works for some people. I’ll be :interested to hear what your experience is. : : Why thank you! I’m feeling a lot : better at the moment. There’s no tears pouring out of my eyes! I’ll see how I : go. I’m fairly sure that this afternoon it will be a different story. : :How are you doing today? : : I know that I should probably go and see a psychiatrist. But, I can’t afford it. : I guess I’ll just have to keep eating Orange Tic-Tacs until I feel great again. : (Although, I did read that Nutella can give multiple oral orgasms! – it’s just a : pity it’s fattening!). : :Multiple oral orgasms!! BAHAHA!! You know, I’ve been here and at first in asd for a :year now, and I STILL haven’t tried Nutella! Keep meaning to, but given that I’ve been :putting on enough weight without it, I don’t think I should be adding it to my diet. :Maybe someday… : : I hope that there are people out there that don’t just think that this Aussie is : just dribbling on. Well, okay, so I am. But I like it. %^) : :I like it too! Trust me, dribbling on happens all the time here. : :Nice to meet you, Lynn! :Mary : :
You are right: you are best judge of what your body is up to. I now insist my doctor let me titrate. I leave each session with an upper dose I cannot exceed. There is also a suggested rate of increase I should not exceed (fat chance). Then I increase at the rate which is comfortable for me. (Reverse holds true for going off meds.) I note you’ve been on the new stuff only. Is there a reason you haven’t tried tricyclics or MAOIs? Some people report mircles from them, when the new SSRIs and variation are unsuccessful. Good luck. Stuck
Well…..I’ve tried eight AD’s …..First was zoloft..did that for 8 months, and for a time added trazodone along with it. It worked so-so…. Next was paxil…did that for about 3 months. I didn’t have energy to do much of anything. The withdrawl was 2 weeks of misery. Next I went without anything for about 2 months. Signed up for a 10 week self esteem class which used a workbook on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I felt worse about myself at the end than I did when I started. Then I tried prozac for 4 months….helped some (any improvement was better than I was). Started having significant side effects after the dose went beyond 50mg. Started feeling more depressed as the dose increased. Started effexor…almost stopped it cuz I felt so yucky, but I think it was due to coming off the prozac. Effexor worked real well for me for about 15 months. Added wellbutrin for a time, supposedly to help the sexual dysfunction, but it didn’t help. **SOAP BOX TIME** I really don’t think that doctors who work in the field of prescribing antidepressant medications fully appreciate how powerful these drugs are, and how strongly they affect the body. My doctor, for instance, tends to believe that you can just taper a person (me) off one drug for a week or so and add a new drug at the same time or immediately thereafter, and everything will be hunky dory. WRONG!!!! As far as I am concerned, there is always some sort of withdrawl the body goes through when stopping one antidepressant, even if you start another at the same time. I have gone through this a number of times, and I hope I have been instrumental in helping my doctor learn more about this. Still, there is that transition period where my life sucks even more when I have changed meds. **END OF SOAP BOX** Anyway, coming off the prozac made it seem like the effexor was giving me a bad reaction at first, but I hung in and after about a week things were ok. After about 15 months, I was feeling sort of down, more depressed than I had been in a while. I was also feeling "chemicalized" and kind of wanted to stop. My pdoc was gonna have me start serzone, but I tapered off the effexor (again with a two week withdrawl) and stopped. So, I then went 3 months taking St. John’s Wort. It helped some, but I gradually sank down badly again, and when work took a stressful turn, I went down fast. Back to Depression City. Then I took serzone for 4 months. It is supposed to make most people a little drowsy, but it had the opposite effect on me. I felt wired. It leveled out a bit over time, but during this period I did not sleep very soundly. It was just moderately effective for the depression. At the beginning of february I started remeron. Again, in changing meds, I had the usual nausea and stuff associated with withdrawl, but man o man that remeron!! It was like Night of the Living Dead!! I slept HARD for the 3 weeks I took that stuff. Supposedly the higher the dose, the more that symptom of sleepiness goes away, but I was still a space cadet even after increasing the dose. So I practically begged my pdoc to let me go back on effexor, which I started again this week. Right now I’m going through the remeron withdrawls, nausea, diarhea and such, but I feel human again. **THEORY** I believe in my case, having taken antidepressants off and on now for over 3 years, that whatever my depression is, drugs only help it to a moderate degree. It has been my experience that continually increasing the dosage yields diminishing returns. It does appear, at least at this time in my life, that I need the help of the antidepressants to handle life. I am working in other ways on "handling life," and perhaps someday I will obtain some results that will make it unnecessary to take antidepressants. I really don’t know. But, I think I do best if I take the lowest dose that gives any decent effect. And, I am beginning to believe that my system needs a periodic chemical free period. So my plan at this point is to take the lowest dose of effexor that will stabilize my mood, which from past experience I think is either 150mg or 225mg. I think that I will also try to go about a month a year chemical free. I guess to summarize, at least maybe to summarize to myself, it takes a long period of trial and error to find out what works and what doesnt. The hard part is to somehow hang in there while going through all the ups and downs. Best wishes, Patrick *** To reply by email, remove the zzz from my email address ***
(I crossposted this to alt.eating-disord–those people might prefer to skip to the bottom) The way *I* got checked for sleeping disorders was in the Sleeping Disorders unit at our University Hospital (since we have a college of medicine, we are fortunate enought to have all these latest, greatest, forward-thinking research physicians). I would suggest a) checking for a doctor or clinic in your area or as far as you’re willing to travel; and b) discussing it further with your primary care physician. If he still doesn’t refer you, you might consider the cost of one visit–and discuss it thoroughly with the doctor or secretary on the phone FIRST, before you just go in and blah blah. It might even help to have the doctors who HAVE seen you forward your charts FIRST. The first thing he did was put me on Zoloft. (like Prozac, or any other antidepressant) THE VERY FIRST NIGHT, I slept through. I still have trouble FALLING to sleep, but once asleep, I don’t wake more than once or twice until morning. He is still going to get me into the sleep disorder lab one night to check apnea; I will let you all know what happens. Incidentally, the other side-effects of zoloft were a jackpot to me: I am much calmer, lessened appetite, smoke less, and can even concentrate better. Donna
I have been cured of sleep apnea by the use of a machine that helps me sleep. my life has transformed and i will tell my story to anyone interested. — "The rule which forbids ending a sentence with a preposition is the kind of nonsense up with which I will not put." -Winston Churchill