Question:

yes, but if the poster is right that the buildup is basically caused by static electricity, then I’ll just wash the Aerochamber every day with some dishwashing liquid.  Why take chances.  It’s not that big an effort to keep it clean.  I was just curious.

Considering the quality of many of its posts, I would strongly suggest you look for a more reliable reference. Ted

Response:

Ted

Question:

I have found that taking chlorpheniramine (an antihistamine found in OTC medications such as Chlor-Trimeton) can stop my migraines within 15 minutes in many cases.  However, both pharmacists and doctors tell me that this isn’t supposed to happen.  But it sill works.  Can anyone tell me why?  I try aspirin, acetaminophen, codeine, and ibuprofen, but ultimately if all else fails I take chlorpheniramine, and very often that works (the reason I don’t take it to begin with is that it puts me to sleep). Any suggestions on why this particular medication works for my migraines, even though it’s "not supposed to work"?  Aren’t antihistamines usually effective treatments for migraines, or is it the other way around? — Transpose hotmail and mxsmanic in my e-mail address to reach me directly.

Response:

I’m not really sure, but many people here have taken Singulair and reported that works for them.  So many drugs, so many different people.  You know whenever doctors tell me it isn’t supposed to happen, it just means they don’t know about it Michelle

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have found that taking chlorpheniramine (an antihistamine found in OTC medications such as Chlor-Trimeton) can stop my migraines within 15 minutes in many cases.  However, both pharmacists and doctors tell me that this isn’t supposed to happen.  But it sill works.  Can anyone tell me why?  I try aspirin, acetaminophen, codeine, and ibuprofen, but ultimately if all else fails I take chlorpheniramine, and very often that works (the reason I don’t take it to begin with is that it puts me to sleep). Any suggestions on why this particular medication works for my migraines, even though it’s "not supposed to work"?  Aren’t antihistamines usually effective treatments for migraines, or is it the other way around? — Transpose hotmail and mxsmanic in my e-mail address to reach me directly.

Response:

Rick writes: The only explanation I can think of is that your headaches aren’t migraines, but are tension headaches instead.  Antihistimines are effective (especially in conjunction with analgesics) to treat this type of headache.

I thought they were tension or sinus, too, but a doctor pointed out to me that virtually all my symptoms are consistent with migraines: pain on one side of the head (usually the same side), a feeling that something is drilling or splitting into that part of the head, a change when I move around, nausea, watering eye on the headache side, sensitivity to smells, light, and some sounds, triggers that include barometric pressure changes and certain types of pollution or smells, etc. Anyway, it does seem like a migraine, but antihistamine still works. BTW, why would antihistamine be effective against tension headaches? — Transpose hotmail and mxsmanic in my e-mail address to reach me directly.

Response:

I have found that taking chlorpheniramine (an antihistamine found in OTC medications such as Chlor-Trimeton) can stop my migraines within 15 minutes in many cases.  However, both pharmacists and doctors tell me that this isn’t supposed to happen.  But it sill works.  Can anyone tell me why?  I try aspirin, acetaminophen, codeine, and ibuprofen, but ultimately if all else fails I take chlorpheniramine, and very often that works (the reason I don’t take it to begin with is that it puts me to sleep). Any suggestions on why this particular medication works for my migraines, even though it’s "not supposed to work"?  Aren’t antihistamines usually effective treatments for migraines, or is it the other way around?

The only explanation I can think of is that your headaches aren’t migraines, but are tension headaches instead.  Antihistimines are effective (especially in conjunction with analgesics) to treat this type of headache. Rick

Response:

Question:

I had told the nurse I wanted to do the CT scan today and she said she would schedule it and call with a time.  I let the time get away from me and before I knew it, it was after 5pm.  I guess I will call this morning and see what is up. I have a question for anyone who may know.  I have been taking Bidex, Singulair and Histussin HC for the past week for my breathing and chest congestion.  Do any of these cause a depressing or down-feeling effect?  I have felt like crying a lot the last couple of days.  Of course, when I have felt bad for too long I feel that way also.  I was just wondering if any of these meds could have that side-effect? Vicki — The charter is available at:

Question:

I am using Azmacort and Serevent regularly and Maxair occasionally.  I have recently developed twitches in my eyelids that are quite annoying.  I have also been having headaches.   Does anyone know whether these are side effects of any of these prescriptions?  The pharmacist and physician both say "no." I don’t care if your name IS Erle Stanley, get your rake out of my petunias!

     I get similar symptoms when I have a sinus infection Patricia

Response:

Drugs such as serevent and maxair (beta agonists) can cause muscle twitching.  I have had several patients that had to stop the use of serevent due to severe tremors.  Do not stop your medication with out talking to your physician.

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I am using Azmacort and Serevent regularly and Maxair occasionally.  I have recently developed twitches in my eyelids that are quite annoying.  I have also been having headaches.   Does anyone know whether these are side effects of any of these prescriptions?  The pharmacist and physician both say "no." I don’t care if your name IS Erle Stanley, get your rake out of my petunias!     I get similar symptoms when I have a sinus infection Patricia

I just started getting eyelid twitches and am on the same meds. and here my husband thought I was winking at him!!!! Seriously, does anyone else have the same problems??? Peace, Tish are the thoughts,you have hidden in your heart…….

Response:

I am using Azmacort and Serevent regularly and Maxair occasionally.  I have recently developed twitches in my eyelids that are quite annoying.  I have also been having headaches.   Does anyone know whether these are side effects of any of these prescriptions?  The pharmacist and physician both say "no."

Take magnesium supplements for the twitches. Say 400 mg. Take before bedtime and it also will help you sleep sounder (helps the natural melatonin work). For the headaches try a gluten-free or corn-free diet. Don.

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am using Azmacort and Serevent regularly and Maxair occasionally.  I have recently developed twitches in my eyelids that are quite annoying.  I have also been having headaches.   Does anyone know whether these are side effects of any of these prescriptions?  The pharmacist and physician both say "no." Any bronchodilator can cause twitching of any nerves, that have a tendancy to twitch. I have a familiar tremor in my hands. When I take alot of ventolin (and in the old days theophyline), my tremors would start up. These were the times one or both of my eyelids would twitch like crazy. —

Have you tried taking minerals, especially potassium?  I’ve found them to be helpful.

Response:

I am using Azmacort and Serevent regularly and Maxair occasionally.  I have recently developed twitches in my eyelids that are quite annoying.  I have also been having headaches.   Does anyone know whether these are side effects of any of these prescriptions?  The pharmacist and physician both say "no." I don’t care if your name IS Erle Stanley, get your rake out of my petunias!

Response:

I am using Azmacort and Serevent regularly and Maxair occasionally.  I have recently developed twitches in my eyelids that are quite annoying.  I have also been having headaches.   Does anyone know whether these are side effects of any of these prescriptions?  The pharmacist and physician both say "no."

Any bronchodilator can cause twitching of any nerves, that have a tendancy to twitch. I have a familiar tremor in my hands. When I take alot of ventolin (and in the old days theophyline), my tremors would start up. These were the times one or both of my eyelids would twitch like crazy. —

Response:

: I am using Azmacort and Serevent regularly and Maxair occasionally.  I : have recently developed twitches in my eyelids that are quite : annoying.  I have also been having headaches.   Does anyone know : whether these are side effects of any of these prescriptions?  The : pharmacist and physician both say "no." I don’t take the precise same medications you do (I’m on Pulmicort and Bricanyl), but although the corticorsteroid (Pulmicort) doesn’t have any recognizable side-effects other than those caused by the turbuhaler, the Bricanyl bronchodilator causes a noticeable hand tremblor and a few twitches that sound similar to yours.  Especially for the first hour or two after I have to hit the bronchodilator. : I don’t care if your name IS Erle Stanley, : get your rake out of my petunias! — Murray Stone, Barrister & Solicitor phone:  (403) 486-5146  fax:  (403) 483-7791 snailmail:  616-21, 10405 Jasper Avenue Edmonton, AB, T5J 3S2 Canada

Response:

Question:

Top post Rick I have my panic/anxiety under management ATM having used quite a few of the excellent suggestions you posted. I love the way you confronted the issues and constuctively offered opinion, ideas and options that are realistic and based on proven experience. I have extensive experience in dealing with anxiety and still found your post to provide better ways of taking control of anxiety situations. I found this particular part most interesting for me: It turned out to be better to take control of the situation by accepting my symptoms for what they were (simply my body’s physical reaction to being over stressed). Instead of trying to resist the feelings, I take control and using other coping skills (deep breathing, and especially positive self-talk such as ICHI) to minimize their affect until my symptoms have disappeared.

For situational panic I wish I could learn to apply this technique better. I am almost there but still find I use distraction as a way to manage. I am still too afraid to let a panic (derealisation in my case) to ride through me. BTW what is ICHI? Also, I am going to try and find your original post as I’m keen to have a look at your website as I work in web and eLearning design field. I am a novice trying to learn "Authorware" and it is very hard. P.S Like Meryl, I am from Melbourne Australia and if you wish to email me you just need to remove the "no spam" from my hotmail addy. take care, Vanessa [off to search for your first post}

- Hide quoted text -- Show quoted text - Hi  Michelle, I hope you're feeling better and I am glad that you've found the ASAP newsgroup. You'll find that you are amongst people who know first hand what you are experiencing and I'm sure someone here at ASAP will be able to help you find the answer(s) you seek. Before I offer my advice, I want to first compliment you on your determination to overcome your anxiety "monsters". Rather than choosing the role of the victim of your situation, you have chosen to take control of your problem and find out how to beat it. Not letting your anxiety take control of you takes real courage (which is ironic considering how much we worry in our lives). So again my sincere, heartfelt congratulations! When I first started experiencing my anxiety disorder (over 10 years ago), I pretty much followed the self-help regime that you described in your post so let me start by saying that you have been making excellent choices. I'm sorry that they haven't given you the results you were hoping for. Maybe some of my experiences below will give you insights as to why these skills haven't been helping you, because I am at a loss to understand their ineffectiveness. The coping skills you've been practicing are the ones recommended by many anxiety experts. When my anxiety got out of control, I too started exercising regularly. I also went to a therapist and I practiced self-talk. I listened to relaxation tapes (rather than the meditation route). Like yourself, I even focused on doing something else when the panic attacks kicked in to try and keep my mind distracted to keep me from worrying about the symptoms I was feeling. Also like yourself, my doctor prescribed Paxil for me, but in my case the meds actually helped (despite some unwanted side effects). In response to your post, I would like to offer you (and anyone else reading this post) six suggestions as well as five additional coping skills that I use and find particularly useful. You may have tried some of them and not mentioned them in your post, but hopefully you'll find something worth trying. I prefer to write a lot (because I want to help as many people as I can in dealing with this problem), so feel free to skip the points that don't apply to you. Others may read this post and some of my advice, which isn't applicable to your situation, may help them. (By the way, if you would like to know my story, feel free to read my very first post to ASAP entitled "Hello ASAP from a Newbie" posted on March 20, 2004. You'll find my introduction to the group and hopefully recognize that the advice that follows comes from someone who really understands first hand what a drag anxiety disorder can be for us.) MY SIX SUGGESTIONS Suggestion #1: Seek Out a Local Support Group One thing you didn't list in your post was whether or not you have sought out an anxiety support group in your own city (as opposed to on the Web). If you haven't, I would suggest that you do so. You're sure to get good advice here in cyberspace, but there is something to be said for face-to-face communication and as humans, we need the company of other people - the glowing smiles, the voices of concern (and even the occasional encouraging hug). Joining a real world support group also gives you the opportunity to get out of the house (which can be an added benefit to those suffering from depression or feeling agoraphobic). Family and friends can certainly offer you support, but being amongst people who truly know what you're going through can be extremely beneficial, both emotional and educationally - I know it certainly was for me. If you agree, consider talking to your counsellor or doctor and see if they know of a local support group. Of course, please continue visiting ASAP because you'll find good advice and support here, too. And when you do find your solution, please be sure to share your story here since we do care. Besides, your post perhaps could inspire others. Suggestion #2: Keep Practicing Your Coping Skills, Even If You Feeling Fine You write in your post that you have always been able to identify your trigger. I'm glad to read this because that suggests to me that you are aware that dealing with anxiety disorder can be a lifetime challenge. I made the mistake of thinking that once I beat it the first time, I was "cured". I stopped exercising regularly, I went back to my bad habit of listening to my negative voice and I started drinking more coffee. So my second suggestion may not necessarily be for you but for anyone else who is reading this post. Once you have overcome your anxiety disorder, don't make the mistake that I made and think you've beaten it forever. If you don't learn how to manage your anxiety properly, the panic attacks will return. Suggestion #3: Avoidance Is Not an Effective Coping Skill As I wrote in my previous suggestion, not only was I not managing my anxiety, I was actually putting out the welcome mat for its return. I made the mistake of thinking that avoidance was a coping skill! (I was not being assertive  nor was I confronting the problems I had with co-workers.) By not resolving my difficulties at my workplace, I just added those concerns to my worry pile and eventually the pile grew so large, it collapsed on me. Suggestion #4: Avoid Self Medication - It's Only a Temporary Solution I was avoiding confronting the underlining causes of  my stress by self-medicating. Fortunately I didn't turn to drugs or alcohol (because my father was an alcoholic). My medicine of choice was TV and I used it to tune out life's stresses and block out my negative thinking. Suggestion #5: Watch What Your Telling Yourself I've done a lot of research on anxiety disorder over the years and one truism I've learned is this: What you tell yourself is what you believe. If you tell yourself that you can't overcome your anxiety, then you can't. (After all, why would you lie to yourself?) If you say that you can't ride a bus, won't get into an elevator, etc., you can't and you won't. And worst of all, by not facing your stress triggers, you're subconsciously validating these false assumptions. If it's true that you believe the negative things you tell yourself, it's equally true that you believe the positive things. For example, say you have a problem with elevators. If instead of saying you can't ride on elevators, you start saying that you can. Eventually you will be able to do so. Maybe not right away, but you can do it. You just need to believe it, really want it and with the right coping skills, particularly coping skill #1 visualization (see below) and self-talk, you can accomplish it. I mean, it's riding an elevator, it's not flying to the top of the building. People ride elevators everyday. Those that don't are, truth be known, unable to do so simply because they tell themselves they can't. With any challenge, first clearly define the goal you want to accomplish (e.g., riding in elevators) and then clearly see the reward you'll get from reaching your goal (so you'll do the work needed to overcome the challenge). Next, set the steps you'll need to accomplish your goal. One bit of advice: if you are someone who gets easily discouraged, work in small steps. Begin by listening to relaxation tapes to calm your mind.  It's also important to be exercising regularly so that you'll be physically ready to take on your "challenge". Next (continuing with the elevator example), begin visualizing getting on the elevator, see yourself feeling calm and peaceful. See the experience as a positive, unstressful moment (as it probably was earlier in your life). Repeat the visualization as often as you feel is necessary. Remind yourself the importance of your goal and then go to the elevator. Pick one that's empty. Take a friend along for support if necessary. Be sure that your friend clearly understands your problem and will be supportive. Also be sure that your friend wants you to get better because some friends don't (they may want you to remain helpless because then you'll need to rely on them). Fill your lungs with a deep breath to

... read more »

Response:

that's a really incredible post! One to save, for sure. -regards, z _

- Hide quoted text -- Show quoted text - Hi  Michelle, I hope you're feeling better and I am glad that you've found the ASAP newsgroup. You'll find that you are amongst people who know first hand what you are experiencing and I'm sure someone here at ASAP will be able to help you find the answer(s) you seek. Before I offer my advice, I want to first compliment you on your determination to overcome your anxiety "monsters". Rather than choosing the role of the victim of your situation, you have chosen to take control of your problem and find out how to beat it. Not letting your anxiety take control of you takes real courage (which is ironic considering how much we worry in our lives). So again my sincere, heartfelt congratulations! When I first started experiencing my anxiety disorder (over 10 years ago), I pretty much followed the self-help regime that you described in your post so let me start by saying that you have been making excellent choices. I'm sorry that they haven't given you the results you were hoping for. Maybe some of my experiences below will give you insights as to why these skills haven't been helping you, because I am at a loss to understand their ineffectiveness. The coping skills you've been practicing are the ones recommended by many anxiety experts. When my anxiety got out of control, I too started exercising regularly. I also went to a therapist and I practiced self-talk. I listened to relaxation tapes (rather than the meditation route). Like yourself, I even focused on doing something else when the panic attacks kicked in to try and keep my mind distracted to keep me from worrying about the symptoms I was feeling. Also like yourself, my doctor prescribed Paxil for me, but in my case the meds actually helped (despite some unwanted side effects). In response to your post, I would like to offer you (and anyone else reading this post) six suggestions as well as five additional coping skills that I use and find particularly useful. You may have tried some of them and not mentioned them in your post, but hopefully you'll find something worth trying. I prefer to write a lot (because I want to help as many people as I can in dealing with this problem), so feel free to skip the points that don't apply to you. Others may read this post and some of my advice, which isn't applicable to your situation, may help them. (By the way, if you would like to know my story, feel free to read my very first post to ASAP entitled "Hello ASAP from a Newbie" posted on March 20, 2004. You'll find my introduction to the group and hopefully recognize that the advice that follows comes from someone who really understands first hand what a drag anxiety disorder can be for us.) MY SIX SUGGESTIONS Suggestion #1: Seek Out a Local Support Group One thing you didn't list in your post was whether or not you have sought out an anxiety support group in your own city (as opposed to on the Web). If you haven't, I would suggest that you do so. You're sure to get good advice here in cyberspace, but there is something to be said for face-to-face communication and as humans, we need the company of other people - the glowing smiles, the voices of concern (and even the occasional encouraging hug). Joining a real world support group also gives you the opportunity to get out of the house (which can be an added benefit to those suffering from depression or feeling agoraphobic). Family and friends can certainly offer you support, but being amongst people who truly know what you're going through can be extremely beneficial, both emotional and educationally - I know it certainly was for me. If you agree, consider talking to your counsellor or doctor and see if they know of a local support group. Of course, please continue visiting ASAP because you'll find good advice and support here, too. And when you do find your solution, please be sure to share your story here since we do care. Besides, your post perhaps could inspire others. Suggestion #2: Keep Practicing Your Coping Skills, Even If You Feeling Fine You write in your post that you have always been able to identify your trigger. I'm glad to read this because that suggests to me that you are aware that dealing with anxiety disorder can be a lifetime challenge. I made the mistake of thinking that once I beat it the first time, I was "cured". I stopped exercising regularly, I went back to my bad habit of listening to my negative voice and I started drinking more coffee. So my second suggestion may not necessarily be for you but for anyone else who is reading this post. Once you have overcome your anxiety disorder, don't make the mistake that I made and think you've beaten it forever. If you don't learn how to manage your anxiety properly, the panic attacks will return. Suggestion #3: Avoidance Is Not an Effective Coping Skill As I wrote in my previous suggestion, not only was I not managing my anxiety, I was actually putting out the welcome mat for its return. I made the mistake of thinking that avoidance was a coping skill! (I was not being assertive  nor was I confronting the problems I had with co-workers.) By not resolving my difficulties at my workplace, I just added those concerns to my worry pile and eventually the pile grew so large, it collapsed on me. Suggestion #4: Avoid Self Medication - It's Only a Temporary Solution I was avoiding confronting the underlining causes of  my stress by self-medicating. Fortunately I didn't turn to drugs or alcohol (because my father was an alcoholic). My medicine of choice was TV and I used it to tune out life's stresses and block out my negative thinking. Suggestion #5: Watch What Your Telling Yourself I've done a lot of research on anxiety disorder over the years and one truism I've learned is this: What you tell yourself is what you believe. If you tell yourself that you can't overcome your anxiety, then you can't. (After all, why would you lie to yourself?) If you say that you can't ride a bus, won't get into an elevator, etc., you can't and you won't. And worst of all, by not facing your stress triggers, you're subconsciously validating these false assumptions. If it's true that you believe the negative things you tell yourself, it's equally true that you believe the positive things. For example, say you have a problem with elevators. If instead of saying you can't ride on elevators, you start saying that you can. Eventually you will be able to do so. Maybe not right away, but you can do it. You just need to believe it, really want it and with the right coping skills, particularly coping skill #1 visualization (see below) and self-talk, you can accomplish it. I mean, it's riding an elevator, it's not flying to the top of the building. People ride elevators everyday. Those that don't are, truth be known, unable to do so simply because they tell themselves they can't. With any challenge, first clearly define the goal you want to accomplish (e.g., riding in elevators) and then clearly see the reward you'll get from reaching your goal (so you'll do the work needed to overcome the challenge). Next, set the steps you'll need to accomplish your goal. One bit of advice: if you are someone who gets easily discouraged, work in small steps. Begin by listening to relaxation tapes to calm your mind.  It's also important to be exercising regularly so that you'll be physically ready to take on your "challenge". Next (continuing with the elevator example), begin visualizing getting on the elevator, see yourself feeling calm and peaceful. See the experience as a positive, unstressful moment (as it probably was earlier in your life). Repeat the visualization as often as you feel is necessary. Remind yourself the importance of your goal and then go to the elevator. Pick one that's empty. Take a friend along for support if necessary. Be sure that your friend clearly understands your problem and will be supportive. Also be sure that your friend wants you to get better because some friends don't (they may want you to remain helpless because then you'll need to rely on them). Fill your lungs with a deep breath to help relax you, use positive self-talk, get on the elevator and press the button. Some people with severe anxiety need to have the added assurance of an "out" before they begin overcoming their challenge. In the case of the elevator, the out would be permission to get exit before the door closes. Maybe, at first, just getting on the elevator will be all you can do. Maybe you'll be able to ride it up only one or two floors. Or maybe you'll ride it to the top and then wonder how this could have ever been a problem for you. Your anxiety may be so strong that you'll turn away and not even make the attempt. All these scenarios could happen. The important thing is that you made the effort to control your anxiety (rather than have it control you.) If you made it to the top, congratulate yourself and use the experience as ammunition to confront your next challenge. If on the other hand, you didn't accomplish your goal, don't focus on your "failure" but rather focus on the courage you showed in making the attempt. Recognize that you have that courage, and just work harder to prepare yourself for the next attempt. Lower your expectations and maybe set a new goal of just getting on the elevator. Get on and then get off. Repeat that until your inner voice tells you that you're ready to take the next step

... read more »

Response:

Hi Michelle - After reading Rick's response, I don't think there's much left to cover! But I felt I should post anyway.  It definitely takes time to find the answers. Different methods work for different people.  So, don't give up! If you don't feel well, work with your doctor in trying different combinations of therapy/meds. Sometimes it really is a trial&error type of situation.  Hang in there. -take care, z [aka rob]

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have been a really anxious person all of my life, but have always been able to identify the trigger.  That is until last September.  I often feel like I am off balance, shaky, weak, dizzy, like one more movement and I will colapse.  I tried to take paxil but got brutally sick.  I am now on Effexor 150 mg.  I started it in October.  The problem is that the symptom still come and last all day. I have tried exercise, meditation (but I can’t concentrate), focusing on doing something else, self talk, I’ve talked to a counsellor, and nothing eases the symptoms. They last until I am at the point I am ready to give up before they ease. Does anyone have any ideas of anything I can try.

Response:

I have been a really anxious person all of my life, but have always been able to identify the trigger.  That is until last September.  I often feel like I am off balance, shaky, weak, dizzy, like one more movement and I will colapse.

Sometimes there are no triggers and I’ve had all those symptoms above. Of course it could be the actual anxiety itself causing you worry and well, have more anxiety. That’s the vicious circle. I tried to take paxil but got brutally sick.  I am now on Effexor 150 mg.  I started it in October.  The problem is that the symptom still come and last all day. I have tried exercise, meditation (but I can’t concentrate), focusing on doing something else, self talk, I’ve talked to a counsellor, and nothing eases the symptoms. They last until I am at the point I am ready to give up before they ease. Does anyone have any ideas of anything I can try.

I’ve tried Paxil myself for 3 months to help my anxiety. It made it worse in my case as well. I’m on Xanax to help with my PA’s but still have anxiety daily. I notice you mentioned you just about hit rock bottom before it eases up. Well, that’s what I’ve learned in my case too. So after a certain amount of time I’ve come to realize that fighting those symptoms has this effect. It’s scary but if you just let them happen you’ll see they go away much faster and after a while less often. It took me a while to build up enough courage to not flee situations (whatever that may be in your case) when they occur but I did and glad I did. The worse of my symptom was nearly passing out but this has never happened in the last 8 years dealing with anxiety. Good Luck!

Response:

Boy Rick, This is brilliant. I an saving it. There is too much for me to digest in one reading. Truly inspirational and very practical. Meryl – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi  Michelle, I hope you’re feeling better and I am glad that you’ve found the ASAP newsgroup. You’ll find that you are amongst people who know first hand what you are experiencing and I’m sure someone here at ASAP will be able to help you find the answer(s) you seek. Before I offer my advice, I want to first compliment you on your determination to overcome your anxiety "monsters". Rather than choosing the role of the victim of your situation, you have chosen to take control of your problem and find out how to beat it. Not letting your anxiety take control of you takes real courage (which is ironic considering how much we worry in our lives). So again my sincere, heartfelt congratulations! When I first started experiencing my anxiety disorder (over 10 years ago), I pretty much followed the self-help regime that you described in your post so let me start by saying that you have been making excellent choices. I’m sorry that they haven’t given you the results you were hoping for. Maybe some of my experiences below will give you insights as to why these skills haven’t been helping you, because I am at a loss to understand their ineffectiveness. The coping skills you’ve been practicing are the ones recommended by many anxiety experts. When my anxiety got out of control, I too started exercising regularly. I also went to a therapist and I practiced self-talk. I listened to relaxation tapes (rather than the meditation route). Like yourself, I even focused on doing something else when the panic attacks kicked in to try and keep my mind distracted to keep me from worrying about the symptoms I was feeling. Also like yourself, my doctor prescribed Paxil for me, but in my case the meds actually helped (despite some unwanted side effects). In response to your post, I would like to offer you (and anyone else reading this post) six suggestions as well as five additional coping skills that I use and find particularly useful. You may have tried some of them and not mentioned them in your post, but hopefully you’ll find something worth trying. I prefer to write a lot (because I want to help as many people as I can in dealing with this problem), so feel free to skip the points that don’t apply to you. Others may read this post and some of my advice, which isn’t applicable to your situation, may help them. (By the way, if you would like to know my story, feel free to read my very first post to ASAP entitled "Hello ASAP from a Newbie" posted on March 20, 2004. You’ll find my introduction to the group and hopefully recognize that the advice that follows comes from someone who really understands first hand what a drag anxiety disorder can be for us.) MY SIX SUGGESTIONS Suggestion #1: Seek Out a Local Support Group One thing you didn’t list in your post was whether or not you have sought out an anxiety support group in your own city (as opposed to on the Web). If you haven’t, I would suggest that you do so. You’re sure to get good advice here in cyberspace, but there is something to be said for face-to-face communication and as humans, we need the company of other people – the glowing smiles, the voices of concern (and even the occasional encouraging hug). Joining a real world support group also gives you the opportunity to get out of the house (which can be an added benefit to those suffering from depression or feeling agoraphobic). Family and friends can certainly offer you support, but being amongst people who truly know what you’re going through can be extremely beneficial, both emotional and educationally – I know it certainly was for me. If you agree, consider talking to your counsellor or doctor and see if they know of a local support group. Of course, please continue visiting ASAP because you’ll find good advice and support here, too. And when you do find your solution, please be sure to share your story here since we do care. Besides, your post perhaps could inspire others. Suggestion #2: Keep Practicing Your Coping Skills, Even If You Feeling Fine You write in your post that you have always been able to identify your trigger. I’m glad to read this because that suggests to me that you are aware that dealing with anxiety disorder can be a lifetime challenge. I made the mistake of thinking that once I beat it the first time, I was "cured". I stopped exercising regularly, I went back to my bad habit of listening to my negative voice and I started drinking more coffee. So my second suggestion may not necessarily be for you but for anyone else who is reading this post. Once you have overcome your anxiety disorder, don’t make the mistake that I made and think you’ve beaten it forever. If you don’t learn how to manage your anxiety properly, the panic attacks will return. Suggestion #3: Avoidance Is Not an Effective Coping Skill As I wrote in my previous suggestion, not only was I not managing my anxiety, I was actually putting out the welcome mat for its return. I made the mistake of thinking that avoidance was a coping skill! (I was not being assertive  nor was I confronting the problems I had with co-workers.) By not resolving my difficulties at my workplace, I just added those concerns to my worry pile and eventually the pile grew so large, it collapsed on me. Suggestion #4: Avoid Self Medication – It’s Only a Temporary Solution I was avoiding confronting the underlining causes of  my stress by self-medicating. Fortunately I didn’t turn to drugs or alcohol (because my father was an alcoholic). My medicine of choice was TV and I used it to tune out life’s stresses and block out my negative thinking. Suggestion #5: Watch What Your Telling Yourself I’ve done a lot of research on anxiety disorder over the years and one truism I’ve learned is this: What you tell yourself is what you believe. If you tell yourself that you can’t overcome your anxiety, then you can’t. (After all, why would you lie to yourself?) If you say that you can’t ride a bus, won’t get into an elevator, etc., you can’t and you won’t. And worst of all, by not facing your stress triggers, you’re subconsciously validating these false assumptions. If it’s true that you believe the negative things you tell yourself, it’s equally true that you believe the positive things. For example, say you have a problem with elevators. If instead of saying you can’t ride on elevators, you start saying that you can. Eventually you will be able to do so. Maybe not right away, but you can do it. You just need to believe it, really want it and with the right coping skills, particularly coping skill #1 visualization (see below) and self-talk, you can accomplish it. I mean, it’s riding an elevator, it’s not flying to the top of the building. People ride elevators everyday. Those that don’t are, truth be known, unable to do so simply because they tell themselves they can’t. With any challenge, first clearly define the goal you want to accomplish (e.g., riding in elevators) and then clearly see the reward you’ll get from reaching your goal (so you’ll do the work needed to overcome the challenge). Next, set the steps you’ll need to accomplish your goal. One bit of advice: if you are someone who gets easily discouraged, work in small steps. Begin by listening to relaxation tapes to calm your mind.  It’s also important to be exercising regularly so that you’ll be physically ready to take on your "challenge". Next (continuing with the elevator example), begin visualizing getting on the elevator, see yourself feeling calm and peaceful. See the experience as a positive, unstressful moment (as it probably was earlier in your life). Repeat the visualization as often as you feel is necessary. Remind yourself the importance of your goal and then go to the elevator. Pick one that’s empty. Take a friend along for support if necessary. Be sure that your friend clearly understands your problem and will be supportive. Also be sure that your friend wants you to get better because some friends don’t (they may want you to remain helpless because then you’ll need to rely on them). Fill your lungs with a deep breath to help relax you, use positive self-talk, get on the elevator and press the button. Some people with severe anxiety need to have the added assurance of an "out" before they begin overcoming their challenge. In the case of the elevator, the out would be permission to get exit before the door closes. Maybe, at first, just getting on the elevator will be all you can do. Maybe you’ll be able to ride it up only one or two floors. Or maybe you’ll ride it to the top and then wonder how this could have ever been a problem for you. Your anxiety may be so strong that you’ll turn away and not even make the attempt. All these scenarios could happen. The important thing is that you made the effort to control your anxiety (rather than have it control you.) If you made it to the top, congratulate yourself and use the experience as ammunition to confront your next challenge. If on the other hand, you didn’t accomplish your goal, don’t focus on your "failure" but rather focus on the courage you showed in making the attempt. Recognize that you have that courage, and just work harder to prepare yourself for the next attempt. Lower your expectations and maybe set a new goal of just getting on the elevator. Get on and then get off. Repeat that until your inner voice tells you that you’re ready to take the next step (but remember to listen to your true inner voice, not the negative voice that has been lying to you about being unable to do the normal activities that you

… read more »

Response:

I have been a really anxious person all of my life, but have always been able to identify the trigger.  That is until last September.  I often feel like I am off balance, shaky, weak, dizzy, like one more movement and I will colapse.  I tried to take paxil but got brutally sick.  I am now on Effexor 150 mg.  I started it in October.  The problem is that the symptom still come and last all day. I have tried exercise, meditation (but I can’t concentrate), focusing on doing something else, self talk, I’ve talked to a counsellor, and nothing eases the symptoms. They last until I am at the point I am ready to give up before they ease. Does anyone have any ideas of anything I can try.

Response:

Meds are often a hard thing to get right with conditions like ours.  I would suggest you talk to your doctor about switching meds.  I ended up trying a couple before I found the right combo for me, and you will find that is most peoples experience.  Paxil is rather difficult to get on so I would not feel bad about not being able to do it.  Effexor is a good one if it works for you, but in this case it does not seem to be.  There are several other meds out there and experiences going on them varies by individual.  If you feel the initial side effects are a bit much maybe your doc can give you a benzo to get you over the initial period.  For now hang in there, and good Luck! d

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have been a really anxious person all of my life, but have always been able to identify the trigger.  That is until last September.  I often feel like I am off balance, shaky, weak, dizzy, like one more movement and I will colapse.  I tried to take paxil but got brutally sick.  I am now on Effexor 150 mg.  I started it in October.  The problem is that the symptom still come and last all day. I have tried exercise, meditation (but I can’t concentrate), focusing on doing something else, self talk, I’ve talked to a counsellor, and nothing eases the symptoms. They last until I am at the point I am ready to give up before they ease. Does anyone have any ideas of anything I can try.

Response:

Hi  Michelle, I hope you’re feeling better and I am glad that you’ve found the ASAP newsgroup. You’ll find that you are amongst people who know first hand what you are experiencing and I’m sure someone here at ASAP will be able to help you find the answer(s) you seek. Before I offer my advice, I want to first compliment you on your determination to overcome your anxiety "monsters". Rather than choosing the role of the victim of your situation, you have chosen to take control of your problem and find out how to beat it. Not letting your anxiety take control of you takes real courage (which is ironic considering how much we worry in our lives). So again my sincere, heartfelt congratulations! When I first started experiencing my anxiety disorder (over 10 years ago), I pretty much followed the self-help regime that you described in your post so let me start by saying that you have been making excellent choices. I’m sorry that they haven’t given you the results you were hoping for. Maybe some of my experiences below will give you insights as to why these skills haven’t been helping you, because I am at a loss to understand their ineffectiveness. The coping skills you’ve been practicing are the ones recommended by many anxiety experts. When my anxiety got out of control, I too started exercising regularly. I also went to a therapist and I practiced self-talk. I listened to relaxation tapes (rather than the meditation route). Like yourself, I even focused on doing something else when the panic attacks kicked in to try and keep my mind distracted to keep me from worrying about the symptoms I was feeling. Also like yourself, my doctor prescribed Paxil for me, but in my case the meds actually helped (despite some unwanted side effects). In response to your post, I would like to offer you (and anyone else reading this post) six suggestions as well as five additional coping skills that I use and find particularly useful. You may have tried some of them and not mentioned them in your post, but hopefully you’ll find something worth trying. I prefer to write a lot (because I want to help as many people as I can in dealing with this problem), so feel free to skip the points that don’t apply to you. Others may read this post and some of my advice, which isn’t applicable to your situation, may help them. (By the way, if you would like to know my story, feel free to read my very first post to ASAP entitled "Hello ASAP from a Newbie" posted on March 20, 2004. You’ll find my introduction to the group and hopefully recognize that the advice that follows comes from someone who really understands first hand what a drag anxiety disorder can be for us.) MY SIX SUGGESTIONS Suggestion #1: Seek Out a Local Support Group One thing you didn’t list in your post was whether or not you have sought out an anxiety support group in your own city (as opposed to on the Web). If you haven’t, I would suggest that you do so. You’re sure to get good advice here in cyberspace, but there is something to be said for face-to-face communication and as humans, we need the company of other people – the glowing smiles, the voices of concern (and even the occasional encouraging hug). Joining a real world support group also gives you the opportunity to get out of the house (which can be an added benefit to those suffering from depression or feeling agoraphobic). Family and friends can certainly offer you support, but being amongst people who truly know what you’re going through can be extremely beneficial, both emotional and educationally – I know it certainly was for me. If you agree, consider talking to your counsellor or doctor and see if they know of a local support group. Of course, please continue visiting ASAP because you’ll find good advice and support here, too. And when you do find your solution, please be sure to share your story here since we do care. Besides, your post perhaps could inspire others. Suggestion #2: Keep Practicing Your Coping Skills, Even If You Feeling Fine You write in your post that you have always been able to identify your trigger. I’m glad to read this because that suggests to me that you are aware that dealing with anxiety disorder can be a lifetime challenge. I made the mistake of thinking that once I beat it the first time, I was "cured". I stopped exercising regularly, I went back to my bad habit of listening to my negative voice and I started drinking more coffee. So my second suggestion may not necessarily be for you but for anyone else who is reading this post. Once you have overcome your anxiety disorder, don’t make the mistake that I made and think you’ve beaten it forever. If you don’t learn how to manage your anxiety properly, the panic attacks will return. Suggestion #3: Avoidance Is Not an Effective Coping Skill As I wrote in my previous suggestion, not only was I not managing my anxiety, I was actually putting out the welcome mat for its return. I made the mistake of thinking that avoidance was a coping skill! (I was not being assertive  nor was I confronting the problems I had with co-workers.) By not resolving my difficulties at my workplace, I just added those concerns to my worry pile and eventually the pile grew so large, it collapsed on me. Suggestion #4: Avoid Self Medication – It’s Only a Temporary Solution I was avoiding confronting the underlining causes of  my stress by self-medicating. Fortunately I didn’t turn to drugs or alcohol (because my father was an alcoholic). My medicine of choice was TV and I used it to tune out life’s stresses and block out my negative thinking. Suggestion #5: Watch What Your Telling Yourself I’ve done a lot of research on anxiety disorder over the years and one truism I’ve learned is this: What you tell yourself is what you believe. If you tell yourself that you can’t overcome your anxiety, then you can’t. (After all, why would you lie to yourself?) If you say that you can’t ride a bus, won’t get into an elevator, etc., you can’t and you won’t. And worst of all, by not facing your stress triggers, you’re subconsciously validating these false assumptions. If it’s true that you believe the negative things you tell yourself, it’s equally true that you believe the positive things. For example, say you have a problem with elevators. If instead of saying you can’t ride on elevators, you start saying that you can. Eventually you will be able to do so. Maybe not right away, but you can do it. You just need to believe it, really want it and with the right coping skills, particularly coping skill #1 visualization (see below) and self-talk, you can accomplish it. I mean, it’s riding an elevator, it’s not flying to the top of the building. People ride elevators everyday. Those that don’t are, truth be known, unable to do so simply because they tell themselves they can’t. With any challenge, first clearly define the goal you want to accomplish (e.g., riding in elevators) and then clearly see the reward you’ll get from reaching your goal (so you’ll do the work needed to overcome the challenge). Next, set the steps you’ll need to accomplish your goal. One bit of advice: if you are someone who gets easily discouraged, work in small steps. Begin by listening to relaxation tapes to calm your mind.  It’s also important to be exercising regularly so that you’ll be physically ready to take on your "challenge". Next (continuing with the elevator example), begin visualizing getting on the elevator, see yourself feeling calm and peaceful. See the experience as a positive, unstressful moment (as it probably was earlier in your life). Repeat the visualization as often as you feel is necessary. Remind yourself the importance of your goal and then go to the elevator. Pick one that’s empty. Take a friend along for support if necessary. Be sure that your friend clearly understands your problem and will be supportive. Also be sure that your friend wants you to get better because some friends don’t (they may want you to remain helpless because then you’ll need to rely on them). Fill your lungs with a deep breath to help relax you, use positive self-talk, get on the elevator and press the button. Some people with severe anxiety need to have the added assurance of an "out" before they begin overcoming their challenge. In the case of the elevator, the out would be permission to get exit before the door closes. Maybe, at first, just getting on the elevator will be all you can do. Maybe you’ll be able to ride it up only one or two floors. Or maybe you’ll ride it to the top and then wonder how this could have ever been a problem for you. Your anxiety may be so strong that you’ll turn away and not even make the attempt. All these scenarios could happen. The important thing is that you made the effort to control your anxiety (rather than have it control you.) If you made it to the top, congratulate yourself and use the experience as ammunition to confront your next challenge. If on the other hand, you didn’t accomplish your goal, don’t focus on your "failure" but rather focus on the courage you showed in making the attempt. Recognize that you have that courage, and just work harder to prepare yourself for the next attempt. Lower your expectations and maybe set a new goal of just getting on the elevator. Get on and then get off. Repeat that until your inner voice tells you that you’re ready to take the next step (but remember to listen to your true inner voice, not the negative voice that has been lying to you about being unable to do the normal activities that you really want to accomplish). Eventually you’ll overcome your challenge. Like everything else in life, it just takes work, practice, and time but most importantly the desire to succeed. Now elevators are probably not a problem for you, Michelle ,but if you are as anxious as you say you are, there’s probably something else you could substitute, such as a trip to the dentist. Whatever it is, … read more »

Response:

Question:

funny you should ask i’m seriously considering asking my doctor if he’d let me experiment with it. as a supplement to paxil that is.  my concern is if there are any possible adverse reactions from cocktailing the two. i’ve been diagnosed with two types of ptsd. ptsd with generalized anxiety disorder and ptsd with clinical depression. so far paxil is all i’m taking. i’ve tried prozac but it didn’t work for the anxiety, only the depression. now i’m very much curious about trying Zoloft. feedback, anyone?

Response:

mbl…@aol.com (mbl581) wrote in message <news:20020511173739.20477.00009196@mb-ma.aol.com

… funny you should ask i’m seriously considering asking my doctor if he’d let me experiment with it. as a supplement to paxil that is.  my concern is if there are any possible adverse reactions from cocktailing the two. i’ve been diagnosed with two types of ptsd. ptsd with generalized anxiety disorder and ptsd with clinical depression.

That’s a new one.  PTSD *is* an anxiety disorder.  The symptoms of GAD are encompassed in PTSD so that someone with PTSD shouldn’t be co-morbidly diagnosised with GAD.  However, depression is a common, seperate, co-morbid diagnosis (90%).

so far paxil is all i’m taking. i’ve tried prozac but it didn’t work for the anxiety, only the depression. now i’m very much curious about trying Zoloft.

Prozac shouldn’t be taken for any anxiety related problems. Few people who take it find that it decreases anxiety. For the rest it worsens anxiety considerably. Mixing the SSRIs may not be the solution. You might want to consider adding a benzo to your SSRI to be taken only when you need it for high anxiety activities. Paxil is also well known to have a limited tolerance lifespan. Many people say it loses effectiveness after 1 – 2 years.  Zoloft doesn’t. All the SSRIs are basicly similiar meds – similar side effects and benefits. Some will help more than others. It’s just a matter of finding which SSRI works with your brain. As always YMMV  .. View the ASTP-FAQ @ http://www.astpfaq.bravepages.com/index.html

Response:

Anyone had any experience w/this drug?  Have any advice about taking it?  side effects?  Pros?  Cons?  Thanks.

Response:

Hi Angry!

Anyone had any experience w/this drug?  Have any advice about taking it?  side effects?  Pros?  Cons?  Thanks.

How about doing a search of Deja News on zoloft.  We have posted innumerable times about Zoloft because it is one of the drugs of choice for PTSD. My advice is to take it only under a psychiatrist’s supervision. Smile and there will be something to smile about! Nancy (in a bad mood and trying to not share too much)

Response:

Thanks very much for your help.  Thanks also for saying hi to me before.  My names Kristiana and I posted with that name at first ’cause I forgot to change it.   – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -kipco wrote:

Hi Angry! Anyone had any experience w/this drug?  Have any advice about taking it? side effects?  Pros?  Cons?  Thanks. How about doing a search of Deja News on zoloft.  We have posted innumerable times about Zoloft because it is one of the drugs of choice for PTSD. My advice is to take it only under a psychiatrist’s supervision. Smile and there will be something to smile about! Nancy (in a bad mood and trying to not share too much)

Response:

Hi everyone, I finally went to another Dr and I have been put on Zoloft.  Any one use this drug.  Does it really help or just take the edge off the ptsd?  My therpist is glad I’m back on the meds.  The past month has been hell for me. With the 9/11 events.  Then a week later my grandfather passed away.  Then on the weekend my daughter broke out with what looked like chicken pox (It wasnt though).  Had to cancel her birthday party cause she was sick.  Then there was the funeral.  i didn’t go cause of all the problems with flying. Needless to say it was like Hell on earth.  i ended up cutting again.  And after going for 8 months I was so ashamed of what i had done.  i thought i had gotten beyond that, but i guess not.  Oh well thats been my past month. Joanne

Response:

Hi Joanne!

I finally went to another Dr and I have been put on Zoloft.  Any one use this drug.

Yes … remember that your dentist will probably want you to be on Buspar also.  The two together make a huge difference, and you don’t want to end up with a mouth full of problems due to side effects of Zoloft.

Does it really help or just take the edge off the ptsd?  My therpist is glad I’m back on the meds.

I don’t understand the question.  It changed my brain chemistry so that I could ‘get’ the therapeutic help I was being given.

The past month has been hell for me.

Sorry for your pain, but … there was a point to it IME.  I wouldn’t go ‘on drugs’ until one of my symptoms became so overwhelming that was losing my ability to control myself … for about 6 months I was seriously considering stalking a person I know and fighting the urge every day. I guess that each one of us has some kind of mental wake-up call that we need psychiatric-supervised chemical help, rather than trying to white-knuckle it over and over.  Sounds to me like this last month may have been yours. Smile and there will be something to smile about! Nancy

Response:

Hi Joanne! I’ve been on Zoloft fora year or two, and I’m  impressed with it. It actually makes me want to sleep before midnight (!), wake up when others have their breakfast, keeps me generally sleeping with only a *normal*amount of nightmares, and has me feeling… well, like a *normal* person, whatever that is.I’m deeply grateful to life and the pdoc who gave me this: My life isn’t a bowl of roses, but it sure isn’t hell on earth either. I’ve been on a series of other meds before, though I don’t know if the names tell you anything: Nefadar, Tymelyt etc.But this is better,less side-effects, and enourmously more expensive than anything else I’ve ever tried. Good Luck! Lotte "Nancy" <ki…@cris.com

skrev i meddelandet

news:9pv377$la0@dispatch.concentric.net… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

Hi Joanne! I finally went to another Dr and I have been put on Zoloft.  Any one use this drug. Yes … remember that your dentist will probably want you to be on Buspar also.  The two together make a huge difference, and you don’t want to end

up

with a mouth full of problems due to side effects of Zoloft. Does it really help or just take the edge off the ptsd?  My therpist is glad I’m back on the meds. I don’t understand the question.  It changed my brain chemistry so that I could ‘get’ the therapeutic help I was being given. The past month has been hell for me. Sorry for your pain, but … there was a point to it IME.  I wouldn’t go

‘on

drugs’ until one of my symptoms became so overwhelming that was losing my ability to control myself … for about 6 months I was seriously

considering

stalking a person I know and fighting the urge every day. I guess that each one of us has some kind of mental wake-up call that we need psychiatric-supervised chemical help, rather than trying to white-knuckle it over and over.  Sounds to me like this last month may

have

been yours. Smile and there will be something to smile about! Nancy

Response:

why would the dentist want buspar also? thanks "Nancy" <ki…@cris.com

wrote in message

news:9pv377$la0@dispatch.concentric.net… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

Hi Joanne! I finally went to another Dr and I have been put on Zoloft.  Any one use this drug. Yes … remember that your dentist will probably want you to be on Buspar also.  The two together make a huge difference, and you don’t want to end

up

with a mouth full of problems due to side effects of Zoloft. Does it really help or just take the edge off the ptsd?  My therpist is glad I’m back on the meds. I don’t understand the question.  It changed my brain chemistry so that I could ‘get’ the therapeutic help I was being given. The past month has been hell for me. Sorry for your pain, but … there was a point to it IME.  I wouldn’t go

‘on

drugs’ until one of my symptoms became so overwhelming that was losing my ability to control myself … for about 6 months I was seriously

considering

stalking a person I know and fighting the urge every day. I guess that each one of us has some kind of mental wake-up call that we need psychiatric-supervised chemical help, rather than trying to white-knuckle it over and over.  Sounds to me like this last month may

have

been yours. Smile and there will be something to smile about! Nancy

Response:

Hi!

why would the dentist want buspar also?

Because there have been tests showing that bruxism (teeth grinding, jaw pain etc) increases with Zoloft and PTSD.  The Dentistry Guide at About.com can direct you to the research. The buspar somehow controls these involuntary reactions, mostly when we are sleeping. Smile and there will be something to smile about! Nancy p.s.  Well, group, I ran out of percosets but have a stash of  something less strong than the Vicodin.  Only needed 2 pain pills today and did get another variety (and its name) harvested, but not replanted … yet.

Response:

"Nancy" <ki…@cris.com

wrote in message

news:9q0h86$d8@dispatch.concentric.net…

Because there have been tests showing that bruxism (teeth grinding, jaw

pain

etc) increases with Zoloft and PTSD.  The Dentistry Guide at About.com can direct you to the research.

Thank you so much for posting this Nancy. I stumbled on the message and finally it has verified what I experienced. My doctor wouldn’t believe me and kept me on Zoloft and a further two SSRI’s, and while I control the problem with the herb kava kava ( a muscle relaxant ) I have to say that it is a pain to have something else on top of the PTSD. Anyway, thanks for the info! BFN, Cary Charles )

Response:

Hi Cary!

Because there have been tests showing that bruxism (teeth grinding, jaw pain etc) increases with Zoloft and PTSD.  The Dentistry Guide at About.com

can

direct you to the research. Thank you so much for posting this Nancy. I stumbled on the message and finally it has verified what I experienced. My doctor wouldn’t believe me and kept me on Zoloft and a further two SSRI’s, and while I control the problem with the herb kava kava ( a muscle relaxant ) I have to say that

it

is a pain to have something else on top of the PTSD.

Well, I was looking at an herbalist recommendation page earlier this week and there was a discussion of kavakava.  If one is taking kava kava, apparently one is not to take buspar also. ???? Anyway, you might want to send some info to your psych … it seems he/she needs an update or two.  Or, perish the thought, you might want to ask your dentist to talk to your psych. I had another woman (the receptionist at my CPA’s office) who was having the same symptoms on zoloft and everyone was working on a TMJ diagnosis.  She talked to her psych (who then looked it up) and got immediate relief with buspar. And, no, I don’t mind taking the Buspar also.  Not only does it give me a ‘hit’  and let me know when I am really in anxiety, but also its dosage can be changed (and has been changed) irrespective of the zoloft dosage to give me relief from different symptoms.  YMMV Smile and there will be something to smile about! Nancy

Response:

Hi Shannon!

hmmm, I do have TMJ flareups and the doc’s are wondering if the fluid in

my

ears is part of it. Zoloft has never been recomended for me. Have had enough of my current pdoc. Told my therapist I needed to move on, medications and treatments are

essential

and I’m getting no where with this guy.

Well, I don’t know the story with other SRIs, only with Zoloft.  If they all have the same mechanism of working in the brain, I wouldn’t be surprised if an anti-anxiety medication wouldn’t help with mouth-clenching. I think that you’d better talk to a professional about this, or go visit the dentist at About.com.  He has a lot of experience (from my mouth among others) with the stuff that goes wrong in a mouth due to PTSD. Smile and there will be something to smile about! Nancy

Response:

"Nancy" <ki…@cris.com

wrote in message

news:9u5dol$clt@dispatch.concentric.net…

Well, I was looking at an herbalist recommendation page earlier this week and there was a discussion of kavakava.  If one is taking kava kava, apparently one is not to take buspar also. ????

Yes. They are only just getting up to date on kava, so they are naturally hesitant. It seems sensible to be cautious as it does have an antidepressant & antianxiety effect, perhaps indicating that it works on the same pathways. Certainly kava intensifies the effects of booze and makes you much sleepier. Also, while kava has been used safely for a long time, it has no track record of being used alongside antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs to speak of. To the best of my knowledge, there is little research in this area, yet it could be of huge importance.

Anyway, you might want to send some info to your psych … it seems he/she needs an update or two.  Or, perish the thought, you might want to ask

your

dentist to talk to your psych.

At the moment I am a bit in shock really as I am still absorbing the fact that I was shamed into staying on drugs that were so bad for me, and which seem to have done permanent damage. Now though, it seems I will be getting help soon from someone a bit more informed, purely to process the trauma and work cognitively, alongside some art therapy to process it all on a psychodynamic level also. And yes, I think I will be presenting that study to my doctor on my next visit.

I had another woman (the receptionist at my CPA’s office) who was having

the

same symptoms on zoloft and everyone was working on a TMJ diagnosis.  She talked to her psych (who then looked it up) and got immediate relief with buspar.

Yes. I will pursue Buspar if things do not even out and kava gets too expensive when the chemical guys jump on board. In the last year, the price has doubled for one brand, in line with increasing popularity! I hear some big names have started plantations of kava with their eyes on big profits. A slightly ominous prospect indeed.

And, no, I don’t mind taking the Buspar also.  Not only does it give me a ‘hit’  and let me know when I am really in anxiety, but also its dosage

can

be changed (and has been changed) irrespective of the zoloft dosage to

give

me relief from different symptoms.  YMMV

Sounds really good. Glad you are getting the help! BFN, Cary )

Response:

"Nancy" <ki…@cris.com

wrote in message

news:9u692p$9co@dispatch.concentric.net…

Well, I don’t know the story with other SRIs, only with Zoloft.  If they

all

have the same mechanism of working in the brain, I wouldn’t be surprised

if

an anti-anxiety medication wouldn’t help with mouth-clenching.

I checked out the study linked from the about.com site and yes, it cites prozac, seroxat and zoloft (lustral) as having caused this problem. I wouldn’t be surprised if others in the SSRI family do too. BFN, Cary

Response:

Question:

I have been taking zoloft for 2 years now and I have noticed that I do not feel as good as I had. It did stop my head chatters. I think it is an OCD thought pattern but I am becoming more irritable and tired. Also my BP went up after starting zoloft and I have psoriasis and this also worsened. I am down to 25 mg every other day and will stop all next week. I feel better but some of the thought pattern has come back. This is ok I can deal. Has anyone come off and feel they do not need it anylonger. I weened myself off xanex a year ago and have done great without it also. Joan

Response:

I am down to 25 mg every other day and will stop all next week. A daily Zoloft dose would be preferrable to every other day dosing. I realize those 50 mg tabs are hard to cut up with a knife, but I’ve done it. Chip

Response:

Hi,   I have also been on zoloft for 2 yrs.at one point i went off of them and felt great for about 5 months,then slowly but surely the panic attacks and depression came back. its been over a year since i went back on zoloft,ive been doing really well.but i don’t want to take it forever if i don’t have to.i am also  weening off the zoloft.so far i feel good,but have noticed a few things,dizziness,tingleling around my mouth and heart flutters,im not sure if this is from weening off or these herbs that i am trying(5-htp).i called my doc about it and she said i took too high of a dose of the herb,i think it’s a combo of both.if these herbs don’t work i will go back on zoloft and forget about tring other things.my only complaint about zoloft is the weight i’ve gained,other then that it’s been great.also it did seem like lately it wasn’t working as well,so instead of upping my dose i decided to try 5-htp.   hope this helps. ~~~  Your goals,minus your doubts,equal your reality ~~~~                                Julie

Response:

I  have been prescribed zoloft (25mg 1 week then 50) by my Dr. I went to him complaining of very bad irritability. I mean to say I get mad and aggitated very easily. I had PA’s for about 7 years and they went away after stopping my high caffiene intake and depression runs in my family. The DR. thought that my temper problem could be a mild depression and thus the zoloft pescription. I would like to know what side effects I may have and if anyone has had the same thing prescribed for these symptoms. Dan

Response:

I  have been prescribed zoloft (25mg 1 week then 50) by my Dr. I went to him complaining of very bad irritability. I mean to say I get mad and aggitated very easily. I had PA’s for about 7 years and they went away after stopping my high caffiene intake and depression runs in my family. The DR. thought that my temper problem could be a mild depression and thus the zoloft pescription. I would like to know what side effects I may have and if anyone has had the same thing prescribed for these symptoms. Dan Hi Dan,

I have been on Zoloft 25mg for a couple of months.  It wasn’t my first ssri- I started with Paxil and switched to Zoloft – so I missed out on the weaning on process.  The only thing I did/do experience was stomach discomfort(long story) other than that I can relate to your temper and irritability – I still get that way sometimes but It doesn’t CONSUME me.  I can let it go- no problem.  Sucks living without coffee doesn’t it?- I think I’m going through withdrawal – gosh -I could go for cup right now.  No beer, No cigs, No Coffee- Is this hell or what? Just kidding Bonnie Before you buy.

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I  have been prescribed zoloft (25mg 1 week then 50) by my Dr. I went to him complaining of very bad irritability. I mean to say I get mad and aggitated very easily. I had PA’s for about 7 years and they went away after stopping my high caffiene intake and depression runs in my family. The DR. thought that my temper problem could be a mild depression and thus the zoloft pescription. I would like to know what side effects I may have and if anyone has had the same thing prescribed for these symptoms. Dan

Hi Dan, Weaning on it you might not get any side effects. The most noticeable for me was upset stomach and dry mouth. Oh yes I also Yawned allot. If you get side effects that bother you talk to your doctor. You can always cut back to a quarter of the 25. I started out at 12.5 and upped it from there. Charla Got questions?  Get answers over the phone at Keen.com. Up to 100 minutes free! http://www.keen.com

Response:

Ah no, actually it is technically not an MAOI I got that all wrong. I am back to my norminal condition now.

Response:

Apparently according to my doc the smallest dose is 50mg. Mabe the pharmesuitical ( ) companies thing that people in the Uk are harder and can start on 50mg *shrug* I had to stop it I could not work. Instead I am going back on st johns whilst waiting to see if I can see a physchatrist.

Response:

Apparently according to my doc the smallest dose is 50mg. Mabe the pharmesuitical ( ) companies thing that people in the Uk are harder and can start on 50mg *shrug* I had to stop it I could not work. Instead I am going back on st johns whilst waiting to see if I can see a physchatrist.

Jason, they should be available in 25mg tablets.  Even if they’re not, invest in a pill cutter and make them smaller (don’t try to use a knife, you’ll wind up with a bunch of powder). Matt

Response:

And that is the same as Sertraline hydroxide isn’t it? I woudn’t worry but I had bad stuff happening on a dose of 50mg.

No wonder as this is far too high a dose to start on. A good starting dose would be 12.5 mg… Philip – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

Response:

Addendum – I had taken an MAOI for ten days previously. St John’s wort. (hypericum)

It is imperative to have at least a two week washing out period between a MAOI and an SSRI. Whether SJW actually *is* a MAOI remains to be seen but it is sometimes said to have MAOI-like properties at higher doses. Philip

Response:

Addendum – I had taken an MAOI for ten days previously. St John’s wort. (hypericum)

Response:

Can’t SJW +MAOIs cause the same sorts of problems SSRIs or TCAs with MAOIs can? I can’t believe that there wasn’t a waiting period with the MAOI.  This should be very disturbing to you Jason, and suggests strongly you seek another p-doc, or a p-doc if you’re with a GP.  (Though it’s such a basic fact about psychotropic drugs, s/he *had* to know about the risk of mixing MAOIs and SSRIs.) If you’re feeling really depressed and can handle some agitation for a few days, you probably could start at 25mg.  I always start off an SSRI at a really low dose (in this case 12.5mg) because of my high level of anxiety. Matt

Response:

And that is the same as Sertraline hydroxide isn’t it? I woudn’t worry but I had bad stuff happening on a dose of 50mg. These were my symptoms: Day 1 Panic, very anxious, high pulse rate, fidgeting, hot/cold, odd sense of smell/taste, Cannot eat much, Talking to myself more than usual, shaky, hypermania, langauge difficulties, Can’t sleep. DAY 2 Spelling difficulties ( I spelt ofcourse as +ACI-obvcourse+ACI-  ), Slight anxiety, sweating lots, got out of bed 3.30am, felt afraid for some reason. – This is when I decided to stop. I have stopped taking them now. And feel much better. I still have some written langauge difficulties, and some hypertension. It is very rare indeed to get all of these symptoms, it’s wasn’t hugely traumatic and a doctor I saw wasn’t worried. ( tried to persuade me to carry on – but I HAVE to work next week )

Response:

I  have been prescribed zoloft (25mg 1 week then 50) by my Dr. I went to him complaining of very bad irritability. I mean to say I get mad and aggitated very easily. I had PA’s for about 7 years and they went away after stopping my high caffiene intake and depression runs in my family. The DR. thought that my temper problem could be a mild depression and thus the zoloft pescription. I would like to know what side effects I may have and if anyone has had the same thing prescribed for these symptoms. Dan

Dan, SSRIs have a tendency to make people less sensitive to events in their life.  Some people even complain of apathy as a result of taking them. I’ve heard of them being used successfully for irritability, or at least having the effect of making people less irritable.  If I recall correctly (it’s been a while), Peter Kramer even notes this in _Listening to Prozac_ (with respect to Prozac). There is some info on SSRIs and apathy at dr-bob.org/tips  search under "apathy" Best, Matt

Response:

Question:

HELP! I just got an email on Zoloft not warning public about depression being a side effect and the Phil Hartman family is suing cuz his wife was on Zoloft….course she was also on cocaine and alcohol when she shot him. Anyway my breathing symptom has made me depressed and yesterday I had some pretty hard thoughts about my depression. I not a depressed person I dont think and I even posted this. I know the media likes to exagerate any meds sometimes like they say prozac causes violence (probably Littleton teen were on meds).Anyway would like feedback. Hey if it block my pa’s its a great drug for me. Take care Brenda in her fourth week of Zoloft.

Typical, she was stoned out of her brain on coke and booze, but the And in the high school shooting the guys involved were taunted etc for years, but because one was on Luvox, naturally the med was And for a long time Prozac was the "demon" med from hell because some of it’s users commited suicide, totally ignoring the fact that about 20% of those with emotional disorders try this, thats why many were on BULLSHIT!!! Ian

Response:

thnaks for reminding me how hypersensitive we are to news. Listen to this news flash….. (since we are so hypersensitive to suggestion) SSRI are making people well again….drug companies will probably lower the costs Society accredite psych drugs  to helping people get along…no more wars Studies show after year of the stigma of pschologically challenged people find out they had all the answers…. The PDOC were more informed (due to med that gives you PD for one year before you can become a PDOC) prayer brought back into school road ragers given tickets and script for Prozac and Cowboys actually had a better season…..welll maybe not that one

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -thnaks for reminding me how hypersensitive we are to news. Listen to this news flash….. (since we are so hypersensitive to suggestion) SSRI are making people well again….drug companies will probably lower the costs Society accredite psych drugs  to helping people get along…no more wars Studies show after year of the stigma of pschologically challenged people find out they had all the answers…. The PDOC were more informed (due to med that gives you PD for one year before you can become a PDOC) prayer brought back into school road ragers given tickets and script for Prozac and Cowboys actually had a better season…..welll maybe not that one

LOL. But this could happen if a certain "herb" is legalised!!!! But, maybe not, IME most journos are already supplementing their alcohol intake with one or other of the "feel good"  *meds* not normally available at you friendly neighbourhood pharmacy. Ian

Response:

HELP! I just got an email on Zoloft not warning public about depression being a side effect and the Phil Hartman family is suing cuz his wife was on Zoloft….course she was also on cocaine and alcohol when she shot him. Anyway my breathing symptom has made me depressed and yesterday I had some pretty hard thoughts about my depression. I not a depressed person I dont think and I even posted this. I know the media likes to exagerate any meds sometimes like they say prozac causes violence (probably Littleton teen were on meds).Anyway would like feedback. Hey if it block my pa’s its a great drug for me. Take care Brenda in her fourth week of Zoloft.

Response:

Hi Brenda…I also, read this is in the paper(about HArtman’s wife) but as you already mentioned…she was on cocaine as well….i would more than likely blame the coke.  I’ve been on Zoloft for 5 years, and it did not alter me a a person. Kerrie

Response:

If you suddenly start collecting firearms and have a desire for black trench coats then you should stop the meds.  Imo anybody who commits acts of violence is predisposed to the meds are an excuse.  If the dose of an ad is too high people can get hypomanic or a little uncaring a little too spontaneous a little too too-but most people with anxiety could use that little too too so don’t sweat the se of these drugs liten up stop reading this shit and try and relax–if the med isn’t working for you in a few more weeks try another or give it up.  Everybody looks for real stupid excuses for peoples stupid behavior this woem killed a man she’s nuts-period- the kids in co. were off the fn wall there is no excuse just real sick minds.  These meds are scary but taking asprin is scary too no?  Watching the news and reading this stuff when highly sensitized makes you feel ill–so don’t do it for a while LM

Response:

I’ve been on Zoloft for 6 years and I haven’t killed anyone (yet).  :-) My, we’re a suggestable lot. And we have so many side effects to pick from. Sometimes I just read the PDR and wonder if I have the symptoms listed. Sometime I do. But other times I’m not  sure (but I  never eliminate the possibility that I might!). I also do the "what if" thing. That’s when I don’t have the symptom, but I start wondering "what if"   if I did get the symptom. (Just because I don’t have it now is no guarantee I won’t have it in the future!). And there’s another part of that "what if" thing: that’s when I read the side effects, and don’t have them, but I say "what if" I DO HAVE them, but I just don’t realize I have them. Well, I better go now. I feel like I need to throw up.  Also I’ve been thinking about the woman on Zoloft who killed her husband. What was her dose? I’m on a pretty low dose, I hope. I don’t have any guns in the house, but I keep a baseball bat under the bed in case of burglars. I’ve never heard of anyone killing himself with a baseball bat, BUT, "what if" it’s possible? Sometimes I think I worry too much. But, other times I say "what if" I never worried. Now thats got me worried. Are they sure it was the Zoloft that did it? Even if they don’t know for sure, it could have been. Probably was.  : – )

Response:

HELP! I just got an email on Zoloft not warning public about depression being a side effect and the Phil Hartman family is suing cuz his wife was on Zoloft….course she was also on cocaine and alcohol when she shot him. Anyway my breathing symptom has made me depressed and yesterday I had some pretty hard thoughts about my depression. I not a depressed person I dont think and I even posted this. I know the media likes to exagerate any meds sometimes like they say prozac causes violence (probably Littleton teen were on meds).Anyway would like feedback. Hey if it block my pa’s its a great drug for me. Take care Brenda in her fourth week of Zoloft.

I would continue with the Zoloft if I were you. It’s still early days. Zoloft is an *antidepressant* so it’s more likely to counteract than to cause depression although it possibly can occur as a very are adverse effect. If depression was a documented side effect of Zoloft, the manufacturer would have mentioned it in the insert were it only to be legally covered just in case. The media hype around SSRI’s and violence can safely be ignored IMO. Let them change education and the school system and a few other things about contemporary society g, that’s where the real problems are. People do all kinds of things while being on meds or not – any causality is highly unlikely. You are, like most of us, a sensitive soul and a med phobic but please give Zoloft time – after another four weeks you will either feel *much* better or know for sure that Zoloft is not the med for you. My money is on success. Philip

Response:

Question:

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

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

Response:

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

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

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

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

Response:

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

Response:

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

Response:

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

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

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

Response:

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

Response:

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

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

Response:

Question:

OK folks, We now have a working questionnaire. Fill it out if you like Expect a delay in the initial response. The reports I send you back via e-mail will be better once I have entered a number of questionnaires into our database. Also keep in mind that I am processing the questionnaires myself and have human limitations if hundreds of questionnaires come pouring in. But I do plan to send an individualized report to everyone who sends me a completed questionnaire.                                 Best Wishes,                                 Arthur        A Questionnaire of Symptoms and Treatments             for Anxiety and Panic Disorders Introduction: This is a questionnaire regarding the symptoms and treatments associated with anxiety and panic disorders. If you fill out this questionnaire and send it to confidential database with the responses of others. Based on case by case similarities, a private report will be generated for your specific case which will suggest treatments that other related cases have found helpful. This private report will be sent to you via e-mail so that you and your doctor may explore such treatments at your discretion. There is no fee associated with this service. The only public reports that may be posted in future would regard general observations of the many cases and will not include names or data specific to any one case. Processing of all questionnaires and generation of reports have no professional certification in medicine, psychiatry, or psychology. I am, however, a fellow sufferer of panic disorder and am applying my background in science and computing to help us find relief from chronic anxiety and panic. This effort is driven by the current lack of adequate diagnostics for anxiety and panic disorders. Instructions: If you have ever experienced an anxiety or panic disorder, please fill out this questionnaire. Even if you consider yourself recovered, please fill out this questionnaire as best as you can remember your experiences. Enter your answers to the right of each question or item. Answers do not have to be precise, simply an approximate guess will do. Do not to focus on your worst or last attack, but consider your attacks in general as you answer these questions. When finished, please e-mail (DO NOT POST) your completed completely confidential. General Questions: Please indicate your Sex (M/F). At what Age do you believe your anxiety or panic disorder began? How long ago was your last anxiety or panic attack? (five years ago? three months ago? yesterday?) Currently, do you feel that your life is being more controlled or less controlled by anxiety or panic attacks? (less/same/more) Do you think there is a history of anxiety-panic disorder in your family? (Y/N) The following sentences describe anxiety or panic of different severity. For each sentence, indicate how often you experience such anxiety or panic. 0 = never 1 = several times over several years 2 = several times a year 4 = several times a month 6 = several times a week 8 = several times a day 10 = constantly every day I am nervous, but I can still function. I am very nervous, but I think I can get through the next hour. I am scared, and would like to go home immediately. I am very frightened, and don’t feel comfortable anywhere. I am terrified and feel like I’m about to pass out. I am terrified and feel that I am about to die. I am horrified beyond death-like terror. I am actually "paralyzed" with unimaginable horror. During our anxiety or panic disorder, we may experience a variety of symptoms. These symptoms may occur either during or between attacks. Please rate the severity of which you have experienced each of the following symptoms on a scale of zero to ten. (Blank or 0 = not at all, …, 10 = extremely severe) Fears and Phobias: Agoraphobia (a fear of anxiety or panic attacks that often results in a growing avoidance of things or situations) Fear of Being Alone Fear of Being With People Fear of Closed Spaces (Claustrophobia) Fear of Confrontation Fear of Dark Rooms Fear of Diseases (Hypochondria) Fear of Dying Fear of Fear Fear of Food Poisoning or Contamination Fear of God Fear of Going Insane Fear of Heights (Acrophobia) Fear of Help Not Being Available Fear of Humiliation Fear of Living Fear of Open Spaces Fear of Persecution Fear of Public Places Fear of Public Speaking Fear of Responsibility (Performance Anxiety) Fear of Social Diseases (VD, AIDS, etc.) Fear of Social Situations Fear of Snakes Fear of Specific People Fear of Spiders (Arachniphobia) Fear of Standing in Lines Fear of Traveling Psychological Sensations: Anger Anxiety (In Certain Situations) Anxiety (Generalized, Anytime) Anxiety (School, Work, Career) Anxiety (Family) Anxiety (Friends) Anxiety (Romance) Compulsive or Overly Repetitive Behavior Concentration Difficulty Chronic Nightmares Chronic Worrying Crying Depression Derealisation (Feeling of Unreality) Depersonalisation Dissociation Eating Disorder (Bulimia, Anorexia) Eating Disorder (Compulsive, Binge) Escape into Fantasy Feelings of Guilt Feelings of Persecution (present tense) Hopelessness Housebound Low Self-Esteem Memory Problems (Short Term) Memory Problems (Long Term) Mood Swings Obsessive Thinking Panic Attacks (In Certain Situations) Panic Attacks (Random, Anytime) Recurring Memories of Traumatic Event Self Abuse (Bruising, Cutting, etc.) Suicidal Thoughts Physical Sensations: Headaches Craving for Alcohol Insomnia (Trouble Getting to Sleep) Sleepiness (During Awake Hours) Dizziness or Vertigo Light-headedness Fainting (Actually Passing Out) Temporary Paralysis Easily Startled (Jumpy) Allergies Dry Eyes Watery Eyes Overly Sensitive to Sunlight Visual Disturbances Burning or Pressure Around Eye or Nose Area Overly Sensitive to Odors Sinus Congestion Overly Sensitive to Noise Ringing in Ears Dry Mouth Dehydration (Often Thirsty) Breathing Difficulties (Hyperventilating, etc.) Feeling of Abnormal Heartbeat Chest Pains Appetite Loss Appetite Gain Weight Loss Weight Gain Nausea Intestinal Pains (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) Diarrhea Joint Pain Muscular Pain Muscular Tension Muscular Tics, Twitches, or Spasms Weakness in Arms or Legs Overly Sensitive to The Way Things Feel (Tactile) Uncontrollable Shaking or Trembling Unsteadiness Cold, Clammy Skin Cold Extremities (Hands or Feet) Cold Chills Sweating Hot Flashes Numbness in Arms or Legs "Pins and Needles" Sensation Itching Excema and Rashes Fatigue (Tired, Low Energy) Hyperness (Too Much Energy) Erratic Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia) Reduced Resistance to Colds or Viruses If you have experience with symptoms not listed here (fears, psychological or physical sensations), please list them below along with a severity from zero to ten. Please rate your experience of each of the following treatments on a scale of -10, …, 0, …, +10. (-10 = very negative reaction to treatment, …, blank or 0 = have not tried or not at all helpful, …, 10 = extremely helpful) Medications and Supplements: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) Atenolol Ativan Buspar Buspirone Clonazepam (Rivotril, Klonopin) Colofac (Mebervine) Desipramine DHEA Effexor (venlafaxine) Fluanxol (Flupenthixol) GABA Gammanil (Lofepramine) GLS Gravol Halcion Haloperidol Herbal Suppliments Ibuprofen (Advil) Imipramine Inderal (Propranalol) Kava Kava L-Tryptophan (Tryptan) Lecithin Lectopam Librium Lorazepam Ludiomil Lustral (Setraline hydrochloride) Luvox (fluvoxamine) Magnesium Oxide Melatonin Modulon Motilium Nardil Nortriptyline (Aventyl) Pantothenic Acid Parlodal (Bromocriptine) Parnate Paxil (Paroxetine, Seroxat) Prothiaden (Dothiepin hydrochloride) Prozac (fluoxetine) Serax Serzone (Nefazodone) Thyroid Hormone Valerian Valium Vitamin B Complex Vitamin B12 Vitamin C Wellbutrin Xanax (Alprazolam) Zantac Zoloft (sertraline) Psychological Therapies: Behavioral Therapy Biofeedback Cognitive Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Counseling or Social Work Group Therapy Hypnotic Psychotherapy Hypnotic Suggestion Positive Thoughts Psychotherapy (Gestalt or Psychoanalysis) Support Group Other: Acupuncture Adjusting Lifestyle (School, Work, Career) Adjusting Lifestyle (Family) Adjusting Lifestyle (Friends) Adjusting Lifestyle (Romance) Breathing Exercises Chiropractic Confronting Fears Discovering or Expressing True Self Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Faith, Religion, or Spiritual Pursuits Gardening Physical Exercise Planned or Controlled Diet Playing with Children or Pets Homeopathy Laughter Massage Meditation (Deep Relaxation, Yoga, etc.) Neuro-Linguistic Programming Outdoor Activities Reading Relaxation Training Radionics Therapeutic Touch If you have experience with treatments not listed here (medications, supliments, or any therapy), please list them below along with a rating from -10, …, 0, …, +10.

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – OK folks, We now have a working questionnaire. Fill it out if you like Expect a delay in the initial response. The reports I send you back via e-mail will be better once I have entered a number of questionnaires into our database. Also keep in mind that I am processing the questionnaires myself and have human limitations if hundreds of questionnaires come pouring in. But I do plan to send an individualized report to everyone who sends me a completed questionnaire.                            Best Wishes,                            Arthur       A Questionnaire of Symptoms and Treatments            for Anxiety and Panic Disorders Introduction: This is a questionnaire regarding the symptoms and treatments associated with anxiety and panic disorders. If you fill out this questionnaire and send it to confidential database with the responses of others. Based on case by case similarities, a private report will be generated for your specific case which will suggest treatments that other related cases have found helpful. This private report will be sent to you via e-mail so that you and your doctor may explore such treatments at your discretion. There is no fee associated with this service. The only public reports that may be posted in future would regard general observations of the many cases and will not include names or data specific to any one case. Processing of all questionnaires and generation of reports have no professional certification in medicine, psychiatry, or psychology. I am, however, a fellow sufferer of panic disorder and am applying my background in science and computing to help us find relief from chronic anxiety and panic. This effort is driven by the current lack of adequate diagnostics for anxiety and panic disorders. Instructions: If you have ever experienced an anxiety or panic disorder, please fill out this questionnaire. Even if you consider yourself recovered, please fill out this questionnaire as best as you can remember your experiences. Enter your answers to the right of each question or item. Answers do not have to be precise, simply an approximate guess will do. Do not to focus on your worst or last attack, but consider your attacks in general as you answer these questions. When finished, please e-mail (DO NOT POST) your completed completely confidential. General Questions: Please indicate your Sex (M/F).     F At what Age do you believe your anxiety or panic disorder began?     24 How long ago was your last anxiety or panic attack? (five years ago? three months ago? yesterday?)

3 weeks ago Currently, do you feel that your life is being more controlled or less controlled by anxiety or panic attacks? (less/same/more)

less Do you think there is a history of anxiety-panic disorder in your family? (Y/N)

Y The following sentences describe anxiety or panic of different severity. For each sentence, indicate how often you experience such anxiety or panic. 0 = never 1 = several times over several years 2 = several times a year 4 = several times a month 6 = several times a week 8 = several times a day 10 = constantly every day I am nervous, but I can still function.

2 I am very nervous, but I think I can get through the next hour.

4 I am scared, and would like to go home immediately.

2 I am very frightened, and don’t feel comfortable anywhere.

2 I am terrified and feel like I’m about to pass out.

2 I am terrified and feel that I am about to die.

2 I am horrified beyond death-like terror.

2 I am actually "paralyzed" with unimaginable horror.

2 – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – During our anxiety or panic disorder, we may experience a variety of symptoms. These symptoms may occur either during or between attacks. Please rate the severity of which you have experienced each of the following symptoms on a scale of zero to ten. (Blank or 0 = not at all, …, 10 = extremely severe) Fears and Phobias: 0 Agoraphobia (a fear of anxiety or panic attacks that often results in a growing avoidance of things or situations) 2 Fear of Being Alone 9 Fear of Being With People 4 Fear of Closed Spaces (Claustrophobia) 4 Fear of Confrontation 0 Fear of Dark Rooms 0 Fear of Diseases (Hypochondria) 4 Fear of Dying 5 Fear of Fear 5 Fear of Food Poisoning or Contamination 4 Fear of God 4 Fear of Going Insane 6 Fear of Heights (Acrophobia) 2 Fear of Help Not Being Available 8 Fear of Humiliation 2 Fear of Living 5 Fear of Open Spaces 0 Fear of Persecution 0 Fear of Public Places 0 Fear of Public Speaking 5 Fear of Responsibility (Performance Anxiety) 5 Fear of Social Diseases (VD, AIDS, etc.) 0 Fear of Social Situations 0 Fear of Snakes 0 Fear of Specific People 0 Fear of Spiders (Arachniphobia) 4 Fear of Standing in Lines 0 Fear of Traveling 5 Psychological Sensations: Anger 0 Anxiety (In Certain Situations) 5 Anxiety (Generalized, Anytime) 4 Anxiety (School, Work, Career) 5 Anxiety (Family) 5 Anxiety (Friends) 0 Anxiety (Romance) 0 Compulsive or Overly Repetitive Behavior 0 Concentration Difficulty 8 Chronic Nightmares 0 Chronic Worrying 4 Crying 3 Depression 0 Derealisation (Feeling of Unreality) 4 Depersonalisation 2 Dissociation 2 Eating Disorder (Bulimia, Anorexia) 8 Eating Disorder (Compulsive, Binge) 0 Escape into Fantasy 10 Feelings of Guilt 5 Feelings of Persecution (present tense) 0 Hopelessness 4 Housebound 0 Low Self-Esteem 7 Memory Problems (Short Term) 9 Memory Problems (Long Term) 9 Mood Swings 7 Obsessive Thinking 9 Panic Attacks (In Certain Situations) 4 Panic Attacks (Random, Anytime) 8 Recurring Memories of Traumatic Event 0 Self Abuse (Bruising, Cutting, etc.) 0 Suicidal Thoughts 0 Physical Sensations: Headaches 10 Craving for Alcohol 0 Insomnia (Trouble Getting to Sleep) 10 Sleepiness (During Awake Hours) 0 Dizziness or Vertigo 5 Light-headedness 4 Fainting (Actually Passing Out) 5 Temporary Paralysis 0 Easily Startled (Jumpy) 5 Allergies 0 Dry Eyes 0 Watery Eyes 0 Overly Sensitive to Sunlight 0 Visual Disturbances 4 Burning or Pressure Around Eye or Nose Area 5 Overly Sensitive to Odors 0 Sinus Congestion 4 Overly Sensitive to Noise 6 Ringing in Ears 10 Dry Mouth 2 Dehydration (Often Thirsty) 0 Breathing Difficulties (Hyperventilating, etc.) 10 Feeling of Abnormal Heartbeat 8 Chest Pains 10 Appetite Loss 10 Appetite Gain 0 Weight Loss 10 Weight Gain 0 Nausea 7 Intestinal Pains (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) 10 Diarrhea 10 Joint Pain 2 Muscular Pain 2 Muscular Tension 9 Muscular Tics, Twitches, or Spasms 0 Weakness in Arms or Legs 5 Overly Sensitive to The Way Things Feel (Tactile) 0 Uncontrollable Shaking or Trembling 5 Unsteadiness 8 Cold, Clammy Skin 9 Cold Extremities (Hands or Feet) 10 Cold Chills 10 Sweating 10 Hot Flashes 5 Numbness in Arms or Legs 10 "Pins and Needles" Sensation 10 Itching 0 Excema and Rashes 0 Fatigue (Tired, Low Energy) 9 Hyperness (Too Much Energy) 10 Erratic Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia) 6 Reduced Resistance to Colds or Viruses 9 If you have experience with symptoms not listed here (fears, psychological or physical sensations), please list them below along with a severity from zero to ten. Please rate your experience of each of the following treatments on a scale of -10, …, 0, …, +10. (-10 = very negative reaction to treatment, …, blank or 0 = have not tried or not at all helpful, …, 10 = extremely helpful) Medications and Supplements: +10 Acetaminophen (Tylenol) -10 Atenolol 0 Ativan +8 Buspar -10 Buspirone 0 Clonazepam (Rivotril, Klonopin) +10 Colofac (Mebervine) 0 Desipramine -10 DHEA 0 Effexor (venlafaxine) 0 Fluanxol (Flupenthixol) 0 GABA 0 Gammanil (Lofepramine) 0 GLS 0 Gravol +7 Halcion -10 Haloperidol 0 Herbal Suppliments -5 Ibuprofen (Advil) -10 Imipramine -10 Inderal (Propranalol) -10 Kava Kava 0 L-Tryptophan (Tryptan) -5 Lecithin 0 Lectopam -5 Librium -10 Lorazepam +8 Ludiomil 0 Lustral (Setraline hydrochloride) 0 Luvox (fluvoxamine) -10 Magnesium Oxide 0 Melatonin 0 Modulon 0 Motilium 0 Nardil -10 Nortriptyline (Aventyl) -10 Pantothenic Acid 0 Parlodal (Bromocriptine) 0 Parnate 0 Paxil (Paroxetine, Seroxat) -10 Prothiaden (Dothiepin hydrochloride) 0 Prozac (fluoxetine) -10 Serax -10 Serzone (Nefazodone) 0 Thyroid Hormone 0 Valerian 0 Valium +6 Vitamin B Complex +1 Vitamin B12 +5 Vitamin C +1 Wellbutrin 0 Xanax (Alprazolam) +1 Zantac +1 Zoloft (sertraline) 0 Psychological Therapies: Behavioral Therapy +10 Biofeedback 0 Cognitive Therapy +10 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy +10 Counseling or Social Work -2 Group Therapy +10 Hypnotic Psychotherapy 0 Hypnotic Suggestion 0 Positive Thoughts +8 Psychotherapy (Gestalt or Psychoanalysis) 0 Support Group +10 Other: Acupuncture 0 Adjusting Lifestyle (School, Work, Career) +5 Adjusting Lifestyle (Family) +5 Adjusting Lifestyle (Friends) +5 Adjusting Lifestyle (Romance) +8 Breathing Exercises +5 Chiropractic 0 Confronting Fears +8 Discovering or Expressing True Self +10 Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) 0 Faith, Religion, or Spiritual Pursuits 0 Gardening 0 Physical Exercise 0 Planned or Controlled Diet +5 Playing with Children or

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Response: