Question:

‘Twas 23 Mar 2004 15:46:59 GMT when all alt.support.tourette stood in awe as sesgard…@aol.com (Sesgardner) uttered:

Isn’t this really old information? I could swear I’ve been reading about this for quite some time, and the folks over at "Your Bipolar Child" have known it for years, although they seem to think that it automatically means a child has bipolar disorder if they have a negative reaction to an SSRI.

The background info is old.  The FDA asking for stronger warnings is new. — RB |  

Question:

If your depression is due to a seratonin imbalence, yes they can help. If your depression is due to something else, they won’t. Most ssri drugs do have sexual side effects. If you’ve had blood work and your testosterone level is above the midrange, you might try antidepressants for a month or so. If they don’t work for you, try something else. Mike – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – i am at the point where i think its time to aproach my gp to discuss some help regards anti depressants.from earlier posts i have seen people recomend not to use ssri,s so i will also talk with him regards these.i was just wondering if these will help my wellbeing for i am extremely depressed and really need some help now.everything is a struggle from getting up in the morns to working to well just everything .so could some one with experience in these things help me out by telling me if they r worth taking as things r getting harder day by day.i cant afford to get much worse or things could fall apart and i really need to keep my job thanks to anyone who can shed some light on this for me

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – If your depression is due to a seratonin imbalence, yes they can help. If your depression is due to something else, they won’t. Most ssri drugs do have sexual side effects. If you’ve had blood work and your testosterone level is above the midrange, you might try antidepressants for a month or so. If they don’t work for you, try something else. Mike i am at the point where i think its time to aproach my gp to discuss some help regards anti depressants.from earlier posts i have seen people recomend not to use ssri,s so i will also talk with him regards these.i was just wondering if these will help my wellbeing for i am extremely depressed and really need some help now.everything is a struggle from getting up in the morns to working to well just everything .so could some one with experience in these things help me out by telling me if they r worth taking as things r getting harder day by day.i cant afford to get much worse or things could fall apart and i really need to keep my job thanks to anyone who can shed some light on this for me

I had much more severe form of depression and antidepressants helped me to minimize it. I was not even moving…Here are those I took: Amitriptillin, Zoloft,Xanax, Alprazolam…the good about them – they helped me to ALMOST completely defeat depression, but The bad side…they ALMOST competely removed my sex drive…

Response:

Saint John’s Wort will lower prolactin levels, unlike other SSRI pills. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – i am at the point where i think its time to aproach my gp to discuss some help regards anti depressants.from earlier posts i have seen people recomend not to use ssri,s so i will also talk with him regards these.i was just wondering if these will help my wellbeing for i am extremely depressed and really need some help now.everything is a struggle from getting up in the morns to working to well just everything .so could some one with experience in these things help me out by telling me if they r worth taking as things r getting harder day by day.i cant afford to get much worse or things could fall apart and i really need to keep my job thanks to anyone who can shed some light on this for me

Response:

i was just wondering if these will help my wellbeing for i am extremely depressed and really need some help now.everything is a struggle from getting up in the morns to working to well just everything .so could some one with experience in these things help me out by telling me if they r worth taking as things r getting harder day by day.i cant afford to get much worse or things could fall apart and i really need to keep my job

The first thing you need to do is get "The Testosterone Sydrome" by Dr. Eugene Shippen and read it. Find out what the various tests to check you hormone levels and other health issues are before going to antidepressants. I wasted many years on antidepressants before discovering I had a hormone deficiency. You at least owe it to yourself to CHECK OUT ALL OTHER PHYSICAL PROBLEMS FIRST. The symptoms you describe sound like hypogonadism. I had identical symptoms myself for many many years.  I’m surprised I didn’t commit suicide, but I’m extrremely thankful now that I didn’t!

Response:

Like everybody else said, it’s vital to have a complete hormone panel, including prolactin, free testosterone, estradiol, and thyroid. If *any* of those are off, it can cause depression, anxiety, lethargy, etc. If you haven’t had a CBC (complete blood count) and lipid profile (cholesterol) have that checked also. They aren’t related to depression, but it’s just good sense. Also a review of your medical history, drug and alcohol use, and family history of medical and psychiatric problems are all useful. The troubleshooting sequence is actually very simple: hormonal problems can cause depression. You can test for hormone problems, so do that first. You can’t test for depression. If hormones are normal, treat as depression. But don’t take an SSRI if you’re concerned about sexual problems, rather try Wellbutrin, Remeron, or Serzone. One possible exception: the brand-new SSRI Lexapro reportedly causes less sexual problems than other SSRIs; don’t know how true this is. Re your title question, ADs can be very helpful. When they work people often report a fog has lifted, black moods gone, energy and vitality restored, can think clearer, etc. Statistically ADs have about a 70% success rate, but that’s *all* ADs combined. IOW you might need to try several different ones — Drs can’t match an AD to your symptoms, it’s just trial and error. But there’s a good chance it will work if your problem is endogenous depression, not hormonal. — Joe D. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – i am at the point where i think its time to aproach my gp to discuss some help regards anti depressants.from earlier posts i have seen people recomend not to use ssri,s so i will also talk with him regards these.i was just wondering if these will help my wellbeing for i am extremely depressed and really need some help now.everything is a struggle from getting up in the morns to working to well just everything .so could some one with experience in these things help me out by telling me if they r worth taking as things r getting harder day by day.i cant afford to get much worse or things could fall apart and i really need to keep my job thanks to anyone who can shed some light on this for me

Response:

Jim, You are absolutely correct! However, there does appear to be a form of depression unlinked to low testosterone levels.   I asked my psychiatrist about that and he agreed.   I posted what my psychiatrist said at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/hypogonadism2. and a fellow member posted that he agreed with that possibility. OR eon

Response:

T, Yes, my email addy works…it’s a real one too.  Feel free to email me anytime. OR eon

Response:

Hi, Before you jump into the deep end of  the pool, have you ever gotten your testosterone level? The symptoms of low T include depression, low energy level and loss of the sense of well being. I have been getting testosterone replacement therapy for  10 years and just recently bought a book on the subject that is fabulous. "The Testosterone Syndrome" by Dr. Eugene Shippen, $14.95, Barnes & Noble. It was a surprise T is used by the vital organs and all thru the body. I guess the brain is a vital organ to, right? He says in the preface, "When deficient, it is at the core of disease and early demise". Pretty strong language I thought but then found out why by reading his book. Ernie – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – i am at the point where i think its time to aproach my gp to discuss some help regards anti depressants.from earlier posts i have seen people recomend not to use ssri,s so i will also talk with him regards these.i was just wondering if these will help my wellbeing for i am extremely depressed and really need some help now.everything is a struggle from getting up in the morns to working to well just everything .so could some one with experience in these things help me out by telling me if they r worth taking as things r getting harder day by day.i cant afford to get much worse or things could fall apart and i really need to keep my job thanks to anyone who can shed some light on this for me

Response:

i am at the point where i think its time to aproach my gp to discuss some help regards anti depressants.from earlier posts i have seen people recomend not to use ssri,s so i will also talk with him regards these.i was just wondering if these will help my wellbeing for i am extremely depressed and really need some help now.everything is a struggle from getting up in the morns to working to well just everything .so could some one with experience in these things help me out by telling me if they r worth taking as things r getting harder day by day.i cant afford to get much worse or things could fall apart and i really need to keep my job thanks to anyone who can shed some light on this for me

Response:

T, There are four or five anti-depressants with minimal,  negative erectile effects.  One is Wellbutrin. I had clinical depression and in Oct ‘97 my psychiatrist put me on 150 mg Wellbutrin SR/2x/dy. That did not alleviate depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation seemed to intensify…so December ‘97 he added Lithobid 300 mg/2x/dy.   That did it! I’ve been on that combination since then. There was a brief period when depressive symptoms returned…when PCP put me on a diuretic…diuretic was flushing out the lithium and it was easier to eliminate diuretic than find one compatible with lithium. Good luck, Keep us posted as goes it how… Just my experiences…. OR eon

Response:

thanks oreon for the reply.not dealing with this to well and have some pretty bad times .dont like facing a life of ad,s but must try something.hope ur doing well.would like to discuss things more with u on a more private level,so i will see if ur mail addy works if thats ok with u.thanks again

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – T, There are four or five anti-depressants with minimal,  negative erectile effects.  One is Wellbutrin. I had clinical depression and in Oct ‘97 my psychiatrist put me on 150 mg Wellbutrin SR/2x/dy. That did not alleviate depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation seemed to intensify…so December ‘97 he added Lithobid 300 mg/2x/dy.   That did it! I’ve been on that combination since then. There was a brief period when depressive symptoms returned…when PCP put me on a diuretic…diuretic was flushing out the lithium and it was easier to eliminate diuretic than find one compatible with lithium. Good luck, Keep us posted as goes it how… Just my experiences…. OR eon

Response:

Question:

i have to agree they all tell me that zoloft isn’t addicting either, but screw them all i go off it for 2 days and then have to start it again they say hardly any of the newer drugs are addicting, well i say, that they should try them themselves and then they will see

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Zoloft Withdrawal–The Darkest Period of my Life Antidepressants  "I had all the classic symptoms of a junkie coming off of heroine." My name is Virginia and I just finished seeing a segment on 2020 regarding withdrawal symptoms after getting off of an antidepressant. THANK GOD!!! There are other people out there that have experienced the same symptoms I have experienced! Every doctor in the past, (3), I have told about my withdrawal symptoms have told me that it’s not possible or that they’ve never heard of anyone having these

symptoms months after – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – attempting to get off Zoloft. I even got very upset at one of the doctor’s and told him that the symptoms I was experiencing were "real" and that I was not crazy! To make a long story short– The six months I was off the Zoloft was the darkest period of my life. I had all the classic symptoms of a junkie coming off of heroine. For three weeks straight, I had dry heaves, nausea, dizziness, panic attacks so severe I thought I was having a heart attack, cold sweats, a weird sound in my head, like breaking glass every time I’d blink my eyes, the disconnection of your brains ability to catch up with your vision when you look sharply to the left or right (almost like the old slide projectors that take a second and then click to the next picture), severe paranoia, and continual suicidal thoughts. If it were not for my husband taking time of from work to watch over me, I would not be here today! Unfortunately, I lost my job, and ended up having to get back on the Zoloft in order to live a so-called "normal life". And I can honestly say, it was like a miracle how quickly my nausea and dry heaves went away. I only wish that the first doctor I saw would have informed me about the possibility of becoming addicted to this drug, and given me the choice of alternative treatment or a life long commitment to Zoloft. Now the only symptoms I have are dry mouth and a stiff jaw…Oh, and paranoia about ever losing my health insurance. Virginia — Psychiatry is to Science as Astrology is to Astronomy

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – i have to agree they all tell me that zoloft isn’t addicting either, but screw them all i go off it for 2 days and then have to start it again they say hardly any of the newer drugs are addicting, well i say, that they should try them themselves and then they will see Zoloft Withdrawal–The Darkest Period of my Life Antidepressants  "I had all the classic symptoms of a junkie coming off of heroine."

Well, in my experience, if you taper off of the drug, much the same as you slowly build up to a dose perscribed by your pdoc, you will experience less side effects.  The reason why it seems like you are addicted is because your nervous system has become dependant on the drug, and if you were to just stop it, you will experience severe side effects for several months afterwards, which happened to me a few years ago.  However, it’s not anywhere near as severe of an *addiction* as heroine or alcohol. Frost

Response:

i have to agree they all tell me that zoloft isn’t addicting either, but screw them all i go off it for 2 days and then have to start it again they say hardly any of the newer drugs are addicting, well i say, that they should try them themselves and then they will see

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Zoloft Withdrawal–The Darkest Period of my Life Antidepressants  "I had all the classic symptoms of a junkie coming off of heroine." My name is Virginia and I just finished seeing a segment on 2020 regarding withdrawal symptoms after getting off of an antidepressant. THANK GOD!!! There are other people out there that have experienced the same symptoms I have experienced! Every doctor in the past, (3), I have told about my withdrawal symptoms have told me that it’s not possible or that they’ve never heard of anyone having these

symptoms months after – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – attempting to get off Zoloft. I even got very upset at one of the doctor’s and told him that the symptoms I was experiencing were "real" and that I was not crazy! To make a long story short– The six months I was off the Zoloft was the darkest period of my life. I had all the classic symptoms of a junkie coming off of heroine. For three weeks straight, I had dry heaves, nausea, dizziness, panic attacks so severe I thought I was having a heart attack, cold sweats, a weird sound in my head, like breaking glass every time I’d blink my eyes, the disconnection of your brains ability to catch up with your vision when you look sharply to the left or right (almost like the old slide projectors that take a second and then click to the next picture), severe paranoia, and continual suicidal thoughts. If it were not for my husband taking time of from work to watch over me, I would not be here today! Unfortunately, I lost my job, and ended up having to get back on the Zoloft in order to live a so-called "normal life". And I can honestly say, it was like a miracle how quickly my nausea and dry heaves went away. I only wish that the first doctor I saw would have informed me about the possibility of becoming addicted to this drug, and given me the choice of alternative treatment or a life long commitment to Zoloft. Now the only symptoms I have are dry mouth and a stiff jaw…Oh, and paranoia about ever losing my health insurance. Virginia — Psychiatry is to Science as Astrology is to Astronomy

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – i have to agree they all tell me that zoloft isn’t addicting either, but screw them all i go off it for 2 days and then have to start it again they say hardly any of the newer drugs are addicting, well i say, that they should try them themselves and then they will see Zoloft Withdrawal–The Darkest Period of my Life Antidepressants  "I had all the classic symptoms of a junkie coming off of heroine."

Well, in my experience, if you taper off of the drug, much the same as you slowly build up to a dose perscribed by your pdoc, you will experience less side effects.  The reason why it seems like you are addicted is because your nervous system has become dependant on the drug, and if you were to just stop it, you will experience severe side effects for several months afterwards, which happened to me a few years ago.  However, it’s not anywhere near as severe of an *addiction* as heroine or alcohol. Frost

Response:

Question:

Hello all, I am an OCD sufferer for two+ decades and have had mixed benefits with non SSRI meds and behavioral therapy.  My question to all of you is what SSRI meds have you tried as I am considering them. What has worked for the OCD and depression and what side effects have you experienced? I understand that SSRIs work differently for each person but I am trying for a general consensus. Please include any commentary on Luvox(Fluvoxamine), Prozac (Fluvoxatine), Paxil(paroxetine), Celexa(citalopram), Zoloft(sertraline) and/or any I have missed Thank you very much for your response!  If you wish to respond personally please e-mail loafofspam@(remove-this)aol.com Brett

Response:

Zoloft – ok I’ll do this in a sorta survey form style to make it easier for you. dosage – optimum dosage when ocd was at worst – 75mg, now it has subsided – 25mg is enough. effects – great, really relieved anxiety and I managed to beat my rituals and a lot of my thoughts permanently whilst on it. side effects – grinding teeth, sleepiness, bad dreams, sweating, weight loss and loss of appetite – but they all faded within a few months. additional problems – coming off it was hard – tremors and stuff but I got there eventually…took a quite a few weeks. Overall I think it’s been a great med for me! ~Am~ xxx Gentility <loafofs…@aol.com

wrote in message

news:u07jjodequ7cd7@corp.supernews.com… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

Hello all, I am an OCD sufferer for two+ decades and have had mixed benefits with non SSRI meds and behavioral therapy.  My question to all of you is what SSRI meds have you tried as I am considering them. What has worked for the OCD and depression and what side effects have you experienced? I understand that SSRIs work differently for each person but I am trying

for

a general consensus. Please include any commentary on Luvox(Fluvoxamine), Prozac (Fluvoxatine), Paxil(paroxetine), Celexa(citalopram), Zoloft(sertraline) and/or any I

have

missed Thank you very much for your response!  If you wish to respond personally please e-mail loafofspam@(remove-this)aol.com Brett

Response:

On Tue, 27 Nov 2001 12:34:15 -0500, "Gentility" <loafofs…@aol.com

wrote: – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

Hello all, I am an OCD sufferer for two+ decades and have had mixed benefits with non SSRI meds and behavioral therapy.  My question to all of you is what SSRI meds have you tried as I am considering them. What has worked for the OCD and depression and what side effects have you experienced? I understand that SSRIs work differently for each person but I am trying for a general consensus. Please include any commentary on Luvox(Fluvoxamine), Prozac (Fluvoxatine), Paxil(paroxetine), Celexa(citalopram), Zoloft(sertraline) and/or any I have missed Thank you very much for your response!  If you wish to respond personally please e-mail loafofspam@(remove-this)aol.com Brett

I’ve been dealing with my OCD for 32 years with mixed results. It’s waxed and waned over the years. A year and a half ago my Dr. put me on Paxil and it has worked wonderfully, both on the OCD and on my anxiety and depression. I seem to be doing well on 20 mg, so no change in dosage is anticipated. The effects of Paxil on the OCD may be somewhat less than on the anxiety and depression, but it makes handling the OCD far easier without them. I had the usual side effects for a couple of weeks – fatigue, shakiness, feeling really spacy – which disappeared after a few weeks. Now I just have a bit of fatigue, but an acceptable level. When I went off it once I weaned off it with only some minor discomfort. I’m back on it now, and glad to be. Idj (back to lurking)

Response:

Hello… Paxil has worked wonders for me, although it has made me gain some weight steadily over a couple of years. But the only side effect I really notice is sexual disfunction (lack of interest, etc.). Luvox was horrible for me, I slept 18+ hours a day, felt horrible, etc. But everything is different for everyone. I’d also recommend anti-psychotics, such as Risperdal or Zyprexa. Both worked great for my obsessive thoughts. Shana shaynuh…@aol.com Visit the web site created for alt.support.ocd! http://members.aol.com/shaynuh512/page1.html I’m so sick of this roller coaster ride…I want my ticket back!!!

Response:

Question:

What Makes Tics Tick? Clues Found in Tourette Twins’ Caudates August 1996 For the first time, scientists have a neurobiological explanation for the variation in severity of tics in Tourette Syndrome. Researchers at the National Institute of Mental Health have traced such symptom differences to "supersensitivity" of certain neurotransmitter receptors in the brain structure responsible for carrying out automatic behaviors. They suggest that this dysfunction may underlie the compulsion to act out the sudden movements and vocalizations that characterize Tourette Syndrome, which affects about 100,000 Americans with its full-blown form and up to 0.5% of the population with milder symptoms. The researchers report on their findings in the August 30th issue of Science. In a brain imaging study of identical twins differently affected by the disorder, Daniel Weinberger, M.D., Steven Wolf, M.D., and colleagues in the NIMH Clinical Brain Disorders Branch found that binding to D2 dopamine receptors in the caudate nucleus was higher in the sibling with the more severe symptoms. "Strikingly, the degree to which the twins differed in this caudate D-2 binding predicted almost absolutely their differences in tic severity," said Weinberger. "This also likely explains the ebb and flow of tics experienced over the course of Tourette Syndrome and its overlap with obsessive compulsive disorder. "While we know that genetics plays an important role in transmission of Tourette Syndrome, the fact that identical twins show differences in symptom severity suggests that environmental influences modify the clinical expression of the disorder," he explained. "We studied identical twins discordant for such symptom severity to control for normal genetic variation in brain function." Although previous studies comparing unrelated Tourette patients with unaffected persons had failed to show differences in dopamine system function, the NIMH investigators were spurred by the fact that Tourette symptoms respond to drugs like haloperidol that block D2 dopamine receptors. They used a radioactive tracer drug, IBZM (iodobenzamide), that similarly blocks D2 receptors, and a SPECT* (single-photon emission computed tomography) scanner to image dopamine binding in five identical twin pairs with the disorder. In each case, the differences were observed in the head of the caudate nucleus, but not in the adjacent putamen, suggesting that D2 caudate binding accounted for almost all of the symptomatic variance within each twin pair. Previously, preoccupation with the motoric aspects of Tourette Syndrome had led researchers to search for clues in the putamen, according to Weinberger. Subtle changes in receptor availability in one small area appear to explain rather large differences in clinical presentation, say the researchers. Functional brain imaging studies of OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder), which often occurs along with Tourette Syndrome, also implicate a brain circuit that includes the head of the caudate nucleus, along with areas in the frontal and cingulate cortex. Thus, the new NIMH finding adds to evidence that the disorders are "overlapping neurobehavioral conditions," suggest the researchers. They speculate that the caudate nucleus may be related to the compulsive component of tics, whereas the dopamine dysfunction there may be the "common link between the ideational and motor components of Tourette Syndrome." Other NIMH researchers participating in the study included: Drs. Douglas Jones, Michael Knable, Thomas Hyde, Richard Coppola, Kan Sam Lee, and Julia Gorey. Twin subjects were recruited by the Tourette Syndrome Association, Inc., which also provided partial funding for the study. Additional information and b-roll are available from the association (718-224-2999). Information provided by the NIMH. *The SPECT scanner employs radiation detectors to get a fix on the location in the brain of a tracer drug. Unlike other similar techniques, such as PET (positron emission tomography), SPECT uses a tracer with a long half-life, making possible studies such as this one, which involved a prolonged series of scans over a 4-hour period. http://www.mhsource.com/hy/tic.html

Response:

Hi Elaine, http://www.dystonia-foundation.org/defined/forms.asp This is a link to they Dystonia Research Foundation website. You can check your symptoms with Ormandibular or Meige These are focal forms of Dystonia, which is a movement disorder. These are sometimes caused from side effects from certain medications. I have Blepharospasm which affects the eyes and Meige which affects the face. Facial tics and Meige are very similar. The best type of doctor for diagnosing would be a Movement Disorder Specialist. I was watching Oprah the other day, it was about Tourettes. It was an excellent show. I was very interested in the similaraties of finding things that we can do to get a rest from the movements (tics) they showed a girl who can act and sing on stage tic free. The other things were how we feel inside living and coping with this. The show came about from the book "Icy Sparks" which talks about emotions. Sounds like a great book. Please come back and let us know how you are doing. Best Wishes, Mindy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Hi, I was doing a search online, and obtained a reference to this newsgroup for possible help. I have Tourette Syndrome and have been on different medications over the years. Recently, I was taking Prolxin. When I stopped, a new tic appeared (which is common with TS — for tics to come and go and change). This tic was in my face though and hasn’t followed the usual course of tics I have had in the past. I am concerned that this is not part of TS but rather Tardive Dyskensia caused from taking Prolixin. At this point, I am not sure what to do, or what can be done. I contacted the doctor who prescribed the Prolixin who is located in Houston.  (I live in Albuquerque). He said I should make an appointment to come in for an exam. While this may be the best thing to do, I am concerned, since he was the one who prescribed the Prolixin to begin with. My symptoms include movements in my face, particularly the right side of my face in my jaw and check area. It has become quite painful for my jaw. It is a facial contortion that somewhat looks like chewing, and also smacking with my lips. I have read some information that the earlier it is detected the better the chance it will disappear. I don’t know if there is a treatment for this or not. I also have started taking Vitamin E, as I ran across this information as well as something that could potential help. I would appreciate any advice that I can get from anyone who has information regarding this. thanks, elaine

Response:

Hi, I was doing a search online, and obtained a reference to this newsgroup for possible help. I would appreciate any advice that I can get from anyone who has information regarding this. thanks, elaine

Hi Elaine, I had a no no tic for a few years and can really sympathize with you.  Tics are so exhausting and embarrassing.   Onset started after taking medication for an ulcer.   The prescrition’s name is unknown. I only made the connection between onset and the medication years later. I was never treated for the tic.  It went away on its own.   I do have essential tremor and Dystonia.   Please check out the following sites for more http://www.wfubmc.edu/surg-sci/ns/tremor.html http://www.parkinsons-information-exchange-network-online.com/archive… Regards, Gene

Response:

Hi, I was doing a search online, and obtained a reference to this newsgroup for possible help. I have Tourette Syndrome and have been on different medications over the years. Recently, I was taking Prolxin. When I stopped, a new tic appeared (which is common with TS — for tics to come and go and change). This tic was in my face though and hasn’t followed the usual course of tics I have had in the past. I am concerned that this is not part of TS but rather Tardive Dyskensia caused from taking Prolixin. At this point, I am not sure what to do, or what can be done. I contacted the doctor who prescribed the Prolixin who is located in Houston.  (I live in Albuquerque). He said I should make an appointment to come in for an exam. While this may be the best thing to do, I am concerned, since he was the one who prescribed the Prolixin to begin with. My symptoms include movements in my face, particularly the right side of my face in my jaw and check area. It has become quite painful for my jaw. It is a facial contortion that somewhat looks like chewing, and also smacking with my lips. I have read some information that the earlier it is detected the better the chance it will disappear. I don’t know if there is a treatment for this or not. I also have started taking Vitamin E, as I ran across this information as well as something that could potential help. I would appreciate any advice that I can get from anyone who has information regarding this. thanks, elaine

Response:

What a great group! Thanks for the quick response and the links you have all recommended. This is the kind of doc I went to for my Tourettes. It is Dr. Jankovic at Baylor in Houston. It is a Movement Disorders clinic. Unfortunately, he is also the one who prescribed the Prolixin. I am currently trying to get an appointment with him again to try to figure out what is going on. He also mentioned botox treatment. Has this been successful for any of

you? Several months ago, I heard that someone had gone to Dr. Jandovic in Houston, also for Tourettes and received botox injections.  Apparently, it is being done but I never heard anything else from this young man as to success.   Botox is also being used for tics with success. Dr. Jankovic has a good reputation.   I’ve heard from one lady here locally that saw him but she did not care for his bedside manner.  She hasn’t been happy with any of her doctors, though.  She has Blepharospasm symptoms but apparently keeps getting different diagnoses depending on where she goes. Shirley

Response:

What a great group! Thanks for the quick response and the links you have all recommended. This is the kind of doc I went to for my Tourettes. It is Dr. Jankovic at Baylor in Houston. It is a Movement Disorders clinic. Unfortunately, he is also the one who prescribed the Prolixin. I am currently trying to get an appointment with him again to try to figure out what is going on.

Dr. Jankovic, apparently, is one of the top in his field.  He has an excellent reputation. He also mentioned botox treatment. Has this been successful for any of you?

Botox is used on  focal dystonias.  Many patients have had good results with it.   – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Several months ago, I heard that someone had gone to Dr. Jandovic in Shirley

Response:

Hi Mindy, It has been very helpful! I am grateful for the information. Positive thinking – BINGO Stress Management and Humor are the best medicines. I can’t forget God and prayer, is #1

Yes, I can see where all of these would be important. I have noticed stress plays a big part in the disorder. It does in Tourettes as well, but seems to be more so with this. the eye twitch you refer to I might describe as a soft fluttering feeling.

right, that is what I a good example… Our eye spasms are involuntary but they are hard blinks, sometimes forecful. Other times they close and will not open on command. These type of spasms are very noticable. The eye and facial spasms are extremely hard to suppress.

Tics from tourettes are involuntary as well, but there is this sense at some level that you "should" be able to stop the movement. I feel this as well with whatever is going on with my face. Even though realistically it doesn’t feel like I can stop it, it also doesn’t feel as involuntary as the eye twitch described above. It also seems much harder to suppress than tics that I normally have with TS. It also feels like it is getting worse. I don’t know if that is from stress or maybe from being off the offending medication for a longer period of time. Its very confusing! And painful… Just like TS, when I do try to suppress it, it is only short lived. It seems to be more prevalent in frequency as well compared to the tics I have with TS. That is exactly what happens. It would help if I laid down closed my eyes, opened my mouthly slightly, relaxing my jaw and my face. I would take slow deep breaths and focused on relaxing each part of my body from my head to my toes (very slowly, as I said the words to my self, relax your head, etc.) and don’t move on until each part is relaxed.

I will try this as well. It would be nice to get some relief. Dr.Jankovic is well known. I don’t know anything about him personally. I go to Dr. Bressman in Manhattan, she is an excellent doctor. She has tried me on many meds that didn’t agree with me at all. These types of disorders require lot’s of patience from the doctor as well as the patient to see which meds. or combination of meds. that will help. Life would be much easier if we all responded the same way to these meds. but, we don’t, unfortunately.

This is true for TS as well…except there really are no meds that really work with TS. Some will reduce tics, but none will make them go away. Unless for example, you take a neuroleptic in a high dose. In that case your tics would probably subside, but you wouldn’t be able to think! I’m pretty sure Dr.J. is one of the very dedicated doctors of this field. It’s important you have confidence in your doctor. Does he listen carefully and take his time with you? These things are also important.

I have only seen him once, last December. And he seemed pretty good. I e-mailed him about my frustrations of calling his office and not being able to get an appointment till December, and he wrote and said he would have his secretary arrange to overbook me on a day soon. So I was pleased to hear this. For a long time Dr.Bressman had me as "Meige vs. tics"  She said it is so similar.

I can see that! I think that has been a big part of my confusion. They are so similar it is hard to tell them apart. She would ask if I felt the need to blink, before I blinked. It was hard for me to answer because it was always changing.

It is common with TS to have "premonitory" feelings before a tic. That is probably why she was asking you this. For example, I have a tic that is in my torso. Inevitably, when I get in the car to go somewhere, I "have to" tic. I twist my upper torso from left to right repeatedly, until it "feels right". And I can always tell before I tic that it is going to happen. If anything, the tic or problem with my face now feels more like "a habit". That somehow it has become a habit for my jaw and mouth to contort about every 30 seconds or so. When I sleep, I don’t have it. I wake up in the morning and think, if I try really hard today, maybe it won’t come back. And it always does. Seems to get worse as the day progresses as well. I am hoping it is not damaging my jaw. It feels like it could be. It hurts into the jaw bone. I will be seeing my dentist next week, so I will ask if any damage has occurred. She said the treatment is the same. I was getting botox around my eyes and in my jaw.  It did help me.. How long it helps varies with each person. About 2 yrs ago it stopped helping. Which worked out fine, cause presently I am on medication that is helping.

What medication is that? Are you experiencing any side-effects from it? When you do something creative that you are totally engrossed in, you get a reprieve from your tics. Stress makes them worse. During sleep, they are usually much better Is this true with dystonia as well? Another BINGO Many with dystonia we found from our discussions hum or sing or make some type of sound.

I haven’t found that doing something creative helps alleviate the facial movements at all. Actually, that was probably my first clue that it might not be a "normal tic" that I experience with TS. I haven’t tried humming or singing though…definitely worth a try! Also, many have problems breathing they tend to subside when the spasms are helped with medicine. Does this happen with TS?

No, breathing problems are not common with TS. I can see where I tend to breathe more shallow now because of this facial tic. It’s kind of like your whole body is taking a toll because of the tic. Kind of like your whole body tenses up, which then makes your breathing worse. But on a more physical level, like the feeling of asthma, I have not experienced that. Thanks for all the help! I really appreciate it. I am trying to learn as much as I can about this before I see Dr. Jankovic in the next couple of weeks. Have you had Meige all of your life of is it fairly recent? Do you know what caused it? thanks again, elaine

Response:

It has been very helpful! I am grateful for the information.

Me too )) It also feels like it is getting worse. I don’t know if that is from stress or maybe from being off the offending medication for a longer period of time. Its very confusing! And painful…

It might be a good idea if you write down all these feelings and symptoms because they are easy to forget. Take them with you when you go to the doctor. Leave a space between your questions, fill in with his replies. My sypmtoms started 8yrs. ago, it was my 40th birthday present (Ha Ha) (( I don’t know what caused it. My first few visits I took a small tape recorder with me, along with my husband and sister-in-law. None of us could have remembered everything, and we all walk out hearing something a little different – LOL For the pain, you can try moist warm heat or ice, you will get to know which makes you feel better. Don’t chew gum, that will give your jaw more of a work-out. You can suck on hard candy. That sucking action works the reverse of chewing. The dentist made me a mouth piece, nothing fancy, inexpensive. It’s clear rubber, molded from my teeth. I asked him to make the back a little thicker.  I wore it mostly during the night. There were times when I needed it for driving (sounds strange) It really is very painful, and no one can understand how exhausting it can be, unless you’ve experienced it. Really all the dystonia movements are painful and exhausting. TS tics are not painful or exhausting? This is true for TS as well…except there really are no meds that really work with TS. Some will reduce tics, but none will make them go away.

BINGO – they don’t know the cause, and they don’t have a cure.  Unless for example, you take a neuroleptic in a high dose.

My doctor told me Never Ever take any neuroleptics or dopamine blockers. There are lists of meds. that can cause dystonia. But strangely enough many on that list are prescribed to help dystonia. Let’s hope and pray if yours came from that med. it will subside and go away. I was given meds that gave me crazy side effects like making my arms fling about, and my head shake, etc. They did go away when the med. was out of my system. I e-mailed him about my frustrations of calling his office and not being able to get an appointment till

It does get frustrating, between the doses, and symptoms, there was always questions. I ended up goint to a psychiatrist in my neighborhood who is board certified in psychiatry and neurology to monitor my meds. He was in contact with my Movement Specialist, and I don’t take anything unless she ok’s it. When I sleep, I don’t have it. I wake up in the morning and think, if I try really hard today, maybe it won’t come back. And it always does. Seems to get worse as the day progresses as well.

Dystonia spasms go away while sleeping. It helps to get a good nights sleep, and a nap in the afternoon. I remember waking up with those exact feelings. What medication is that? Are you experiencing any side-effects from it?

I’m taking Parsitan, (My psych.does not monitor this med) It’s not sold in the States. I get it from Canada. I notice some short term memory loss. I haven’t found that doing something creative helps alleviate the facial movements at all.

I was able to crotchet, gardening, be on the computer, these would alleviate the movements, most of the time. I actually thought I could re-train my brain by doing something that kept my eyes open, I would stay at it for hours, days, months -LOL I still keep my hopes up that my brain will work around the mis-fired neurotransmitters.  Positive thinking LOL I can see where I tend to breathe more shallow now because of this facial tic. It’s kind of like your whole body is taking a toll because of the tic. Kind of like your whole body tenses up, which then makes your breathing worse.

I think you hit the nail on the head. If you pracitce deep breathing excersises everyday, it will automatically kick in when you need it. It takes a long time, but the everyday benefits are definately worth it. Not only for us, for everyone. It’s great for mind and body. Thanks for all the help! I really appreciate it. I am trying to learn as much as I can about this before I see Dr. Jankovic in the next couple of weeks.

I’m really enjoying our chit-chat Marie and Shirley have the same type of dystonia as I do. Hey Marie & Shirley, we could use your 2 cents thanks again, elaine

thank you, Elaine, Mindy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

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What a great group! Thanks for the quick response and the links you have all recommended. I had a no no tic for a few years and can really sympathize with you.  Tics are so exhausting and embarrassing.

yes. they sure can be! it is a bizarre disorder… I was never treated for the tic.  It went away on its own. I do have essential tremor and Dystonia.

I am hoping that I caught this soon enough and it will go away…positive thinking! It is interesting that you have essential tremor. When I went to see a new specialist last December regarding my Tourettes, he did a standard neurological evaluation and also told me I had essential tremor. I had known for years that my hands would shake for no apparent reason. Primarily when I tried to do fine detail work. Interestingly enough, I am a graphic designer. Most of my work now is done on computer. But in the past, and still when I paint or illustrate, if I am really focused, my hands don’t seem to shake. Yet, if I am doing something "non-creative" like trying to screw in a screw or solder something, they shake so much it is hard to be effective. My hands have been this way so long that I just thought it was me…so I was surprised when my doc had a term to describe it. You can check your symptoms with Ormandibular or Meige…

<snip thanks for the links… one of my questions is that in the description of these disorders, it describes it many times as being a "spasm" What is happening with me, doesn’t feel like a spasm. We sometimes have discussions like this on Tourettes lists that I am on, so I am sure you have discussed how these movements "feel"… To me a spasm feels more involuntary. For example, an eye twitch. This is a common experience that most people experience at different times in their life. The muscle twitches, fairly rapidly and the person has absolutely no control over it. Is that what dystonia is like? That is not what is happening for me. This movement is actually very similar to the tics I experience with Tourettes — if I really try, I can somewhat suppress this movement. The thing that feels different with the facial movements I am describing to you compared to the tics I normally feel with TS is that it is more difficult to suppress the movement. Just like TS, when I do try to suppress it, it is only short lived. It seems to be more prevalent in frequency as well compared to the tics I have with TS. The best type of doctor for diagnosing would be a Movement Disorder Specialist.

This is the kind of doc I went to for my Tourettes. It is Dr. Jankovic at Baylor in Houston. It is a Movement Disorders clinic. Unfortunately, he is also the one who prescribed the Prolixin. I am currently trying to get an appointment with him again to try to figure out what is going on. He also mentioned botox treatment. Has this been successful for any of you? I was watching Oprah the other day, it was about Tourettes. It was an excellent show.

Yes, it was very well done! There were a lot of shows in the past that only showed the sensationalized aspects of Tourettes, so it was nice to see one that was accurate for a change! I was very interested in the similaraties of finding things that we can do to get a rest from the movements (tics) they showed a girl who can act and sing on stage tic free.

this seems to be fairly common with TS. When you do something creative that you are totally engrossed in, you get a reprieve from your tics. Stress makes them worse. During sleep, they are usually much better. Is this true with dystonia as well? Thanks again Gene and Mindy for your help! sincerely, elaine

Response:

I am French, though I don’t understand all the details of your conversation, I am very interested in reading your messages. I’ve been suffering from what is called "hemispasme" in French for about 8 years. Obviously it is not genetic but the symptoms are very similar to what I can read in some of your messages. It started slighly with my right eye as I was expecting my fourth child. No doctors could really help me, giving me neuroleptic which had all the possible effects on my body except on my eye. 2 years ago, I was about leaving my job I love so much, I couldn’t bear the spasms which occured every 30 seconds all day long. Though my life was harmonious, however I felt exhausted. My doctor sent me to a French specialist who started Botox. I have injections every three months, the medicine comes from the US and is not entirely recognized in France as it is considered as a "treatment for comfort !!". Besides, it is very expensive. I’ve had a new life since that time, though the right side of my face has changed a bit -people often ask me why I am so tired !. I perhaps look tired, but I feel very enthusiastic inside. I am 40 now and I wonder how long Botox will continue to help me. Have a nice day; Jo

Question:

Hi everyone. 4 weeks off Zoloft(for Anxiety)- coping fairly well, some days really suck and others are fine. Apparently I do my current job to well or the company is desperate for help.  I dunno, but I am flattered that I am being asked.  My situation is this. I do not need the money ( I guess I could probably make $2. more per hour ) but Christmas is coming – It would help out (If I can stand to shop long enough –  I hate the hustle and bustle) I consider myself fairly intellegent and enjoy doing my job well and having people notice. I do want to be challenged mentally as well as with the anxiety. I do want to "HELP" my struggling boss trying to do 2 + jobs. But: I do not want to supervise a bunch of whining brats. I do not to run around the office like my hair is on fire. I do want to sleep at nite. I tend to (Process) things in my head over and over. I have a week to decide. My main concern is my mental health – I don’t want to stir up anything- but yet I don’t know if just taking the EASIER way – Is the best way to go through the rest of my life. (I’m 31) I guess I feel somewhat obligated to try this out (after all "they think pretty highly of me")- the Supervisor said I could return to my current position if I want to -but could I look him in the eye and ask to be demoted? He probably would talk me out of it just as he is trying to talk me into it. I know that none of you know me or the company I work for- but what do you think? Bonnie Before you buy.

Response:

Glad to hear you’re doing  well off med,and at your job,  BUT  give it a lot of thought before you take the promotion.  I got the shaft recently with a co. who loved me, bragged about me, put me in charge of buying as well as asst. mngr, but, then when I got ill they didn’t want me, harrassed me, lied about me, etc.  It’s much better to be loved where you are than to be treated so poorly.   My last job before this one,  demoted me   for getting ill and missing to much hard long hours, and the only satisfaction is knowing you did your best, and whatever makes us ill, we don;t ask for.  Mine was asthma, no mental problem at that time.    Anyway -Good Luck in your future, and with love and concern I will pray whatever decesion you make that God helps you to make the right one.  We are each diff. LOL Charisma  

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi everyone. 4 weeks off Zoloft(for Anxiety)- coping fairly well, some days really suck and others are fine. Apparently I do my current job to well or the company is desperate for help.  I dunno, but I am flattered that I am being asked.  My situation is this. I do not need the money ( I guess I could probably make $2. more per hour ) but Christmas is coming – It would help out (If I can stand to shop long enough –  I hate the hustle and bustle) I consider myself fairly intellegent and enjoy doing my job well and having people notice. I do want to be challenged mentally as well as with the anxiety. I do want to "HELP" my struggling boss trying to do 2 + jobs. But: I do not want to supervise a bunch of whining brats. I do not to run around the office like my hair is on fire. I do want to sleep at nite. I tend to (Process) things in my head over and over. I have a week to decide. My main concern is my mental health – I don’t want to stir up anything- but yet I don’t know if just taking the EASIER way – Is the best way to go through the rest of my life. (I’m 31) I guess I feel somewhat obligated to try this out (after all "they think pretty highly of me")- the Supervisor said I could return to my current position if I want to -but could I look him in the eye and ask to be demoted? He probably would talk me out of it just as he is trying to talk me into it. I know that none of you know me or the company I work for- but what do you think? Bonnie

Dear Bonnie, Congratulations on being offered a promotion, I am sure that had to make you feel good Only you can decide whether or not you should go for it. I think it is great that your boss would allow you to go back to your old position if need be. I wish you much luck in whatever you decide!! Take care. Jackie ~*~You may be deceived if you trust too much, but you will live in torment if

Response:

Hi, bonnie, Pat yourself on the back for me – it is a tremendous feeling to be noticed and given the chance for a promotion.  About ten years ago I was in the same situation and it made me feel wonderful.  but for many reasons, one being anxiety, I didn’t accept and to this day I know I made the right decision. Absolutely love my job and wouldn’t give it up unless I had to.  Not many people are this fortunate to love their jobs but when you have one you do enjoy it makes going to work much easier.  good luck on your decision making and please let us know wht you decide. smiles, elise

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi everyone. 4 weeks off Zoloft(for Anxiety)- coping fairly well, some days really suck and others are fine. Apparently I do my current job to well or the company is desperate for help.  I dunno, but I am flattered that I am being asked.  My situation is this. I do not need the money ( I guess I could probably make $2. more per hour ) but Christmas is coming – It would help out (If I can stand to shop long enough –  I hate the hustle and bustle) I consider myself fairly intellegent and enjoy doing my job well and having people notice. I do want to be challenged mentally as well as with the anxiety. I do want to "HELP" my struggling boss trying to do 2 + jobs. But: I do not want to supervise a bunch of whining brats. I do not to run around the office like my hair is on fire. I do want to sleep at nite. I tend to (Process) things in my head over and over. I have a week to decide. My main concern is my mental health – I don’t want to stir up anything- but yet I don’t know if just taking the EASIER way – Is the best way to go through the rest of my life. (I’m 31) I guess I feel somewhat obligated to try this out (after all "they think pretty highly of me")- the Supervisor said I could return to my current position if I want to -but could I look him in the eye and ask to be demoted? He probably would talk me out of it just as he is trying to talk me into it. I know that none of you know me or the company I work for- but what do you think? Bonnie Dear Bonnie, Congratulations on being offered a promotion, I am sure that had to make you feel good Only you can decide whether or not you should go for it. I think it is great that your boss would allow you to go back to your old position if need be. I wish you much luck in whatever you decide!! Take care. Jackie ~*~You may be deceived if you trust too much, but you will live in torment if

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi everyone. 4 weeks off Zoloft(for Anxiety)- coping fairly well, some days really suck and others are fine. Apparently I do my current job to well or the company is desperate for help.  I dunno, but I am flattered that I am being asked.  My situation is this. I do not need the money ( I guess I could probably make $2. more per hour ) but Christmas is coming – It would help out (If I can stand to shop long enough –  I hate the hustle and bustle) I consider myself fairly intellegent and enjoy doing my job well and having people notice. I do want to be challenged mentally as well as with the anxiety. I do want to "HELP" my struggling boss trying to do 2 + jobs. But: I do not want to supervise a bunch of whining brats. I do not to run around the office like my hair is on fire. I do want to sleep at nite. I tend to (Process) things in my head over and over. I have a week to decide. My main concern is my mental health – I don’t want to stir up anything- but yet I don’t know if just taking the EASIER way – Is the best way to go through the rest of my life. (I’m 31) I guess I feel somewhat obligated to try this out (after all "they think pretty highly of me")- the Supervisor said I could return to my current position if I want to – but could I look him in the eye and ask to be demoted? He probably would talk me out of it just as he is trying to talk me into it. I know that none of you know me or the company I work for- but what do you think? Bonnie Before you buy. I haven’t decided for sure yet.  But I think I’m going to take a

chance and do the thing I fear most.  I appreciate all of your advice- I’m going into this with my eyes wide open- and if it doesn’t work out and they don’t let me do my old job- well then maybe it’s time to move on. (I fear that too) I will keep you posted. Best of Health to you all, Bonnie Before you buy.

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:

Hi, Sandi…. Glad to know I’m not the only cyber junkie here……:))  I spend way too much time on this computer….In a way, it is an escape for me…. I don’t take zoloft, so I can’t offer any comment about the symptoms your were experiencing… But I *do* hope that you are feeling better… Take care……MikeH – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Also, a little LOL I had withdraw from not being able to get on my computer yesterday, My son took the mouse to work with him.  I though it was the end of the world I had to go to the store and buy a mouse so I could get into my support group LOL..(maybe that what cause my aniexty).Hee, Hee Thanks again Sandi

Response:

Hi guys, I need some advice I have in this group for three weeks now and you guys have been all great with your support and I truly thank you. My problem is that I have been feeling good with taking 50mg of zoloft in fact this is the first week that I have been out of the house, driving and have some fun.  The only thing is that yesterday I was having alot of short of breath (it went away later that day).  Last night I started with this weird feeling in the middle of my chest like I ate too much or something, but it felt like I was going to burst.  It was a tightening I guess that how I want to explain it well, anyway it started scaring me I thought I was going to have a heart attack or something.  My husband who I might say is great about all this PA, told me to try to relax, but it was so hard because I was trying to go to sleep and I was really scared.   I gon’t up this morning and I am ok now, does anyone know if they ever had this or is it a side effect from zoloft?  Sorry that this is a long letter.  and Thanks for being there. Also, a little LOL I had withdraw from not being able to get on my computer yesterday, My son took the mouse to work with him.  I though it was the end of the world I had to go to the store and buy a mouse so I could get into my support group LOL..(maybe that what cause my aniexty).Hee, Hee Thanks again Sandi

Response:

Question:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have been taking Zoloft 100 mg (after starting at 50 mg) since the end of January.  My other meds are doxepin 50 mg at bedtime, diazepam 20 mg, and atenolol 50 mg every day.  I have had chronic severe anxiety and major depression for the past 20 years (been there, done that with just about every AD there is). Tried to start a job last week for the first time in 4 years (my previous job, where I lived previously, I remained full time for 3 years).  I had severe anxiety on the first day, meaning I felt very claustrophobic (I was in a cubicle with another person about 8 feet by 8 feet, for 8 hours, no windows), responsible for answering phones (6 incoming lines), greeting customers.  I had understood that the job was going to be mostly typing from dictation, which I thought I could handle.  Quit the job and made an ASAP appointment with the PDoc, whose associate I saw today. Initially, before I went on the Zoloft, the PDoc (my regular one) had suggested Paxil, which he thought would be more helpful for my anxiety problems.  Now, I’m thinking, maybe he was right, I suggested this to the one I saw today.  This PDoc wants me to raise dosage of the Zoloft from 100 mg to 200 mg per day, in an attempt to get my anxiety under control.  He figures this will bring quicker results than switching meds at this time, since, due to my economic circumstances, I *have* to get a job soon.  The Zoloft has been better for my depression than any other drug I’ve ever taken, and I’ve had *no* problems with side effects.  After being on it for 4 months, I figure it’s reached whatever maximum effect I can expect, at least at 100 mg. Anyone have any experience with Zoloft, does increasing the dose to the maximum 200 mg help anxiety with depression? Any help much appreciated! Carol

Response:

I was taking zoloft for depression, played with the dosage until the anxiety became something that I had no control over…so I changed to aropax and valium

This PDoc wants me to raise dosage of the Zoloft  from 100 mg to 200 mg per day,

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Question:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -bm…@haven.ios.com wrote:

In <01bb6ec9.66374280$5de5d3c6@#glang, "Lori Lang" <70471.1…@compuserve.com writes: I need some help from anyone who can give it.  I’m 36 years old and I’ve been an insomniac my whole life.  I have trouble getting to sleep and if I get to sleep I can’t stay asleep.  I get 2-3 hours of sleep a night.  When I was young, I started taking antihistamines at night (I had allergies) and although I didn’t feel great the next day, I slept.  Any time I didn’t take them, no sleep.  I’ve gone more than a week with no sleep at different times in my life.  I could take antihistamines until last year, when they started irritating my stomach.  I had to get some help. I follow all of the rules:  no eating after dinner, turn down the lights at night, meditate, stress reduction, blah blah blah.  I’m convinced that whoever came up with the list has never had a sleepless night, because those things don’t seem to matter.  I’ve tried melatonin, homeopathic remedies, acupuncture, herbs.  I finally went to the doctor and had a sleep study done.  It came back that my sleep is severely abnormal, I’m not getting to stage 3 or 4, and that I should take antidepressants. I’ve tried 4 different antidepressants.  I had allergic reactions to 2 of them (Prozac, Effexor), and two made me sick (Pamelor, Serzone).  The only thing that has helped is Ambien, but that’s nothing that anyone will prescribe for me on an ongoing basis.  But it’s heaven.  It’s the only thing that works. Unfortunately, I’m not someone who feels okay without sleep.  I’ve been told by three doctors now just to live with it because that’s the way I am.  I’d almost rather be dead than live like this.  It’s a nightmare (so to speak). Nobody feels okay without sleep.  Almost everyone on this newsgroup knows how devistating sleep deprivation can be.  It’s a shame you found three separate doctors who merely told you to "live with it".  Are these general practitioners? Have you seen a sleep specialist?  It seems to me that you need the help of someone who specializes in sleep problems and can understand the severity of your problems when you don’t sleep.  I don’t know too much about Ambien but I have seen postings here from people who have taken it regularly – one person for a couple years, I believe. Please, see a doctor who is both willing and capable of understanding your sleep problems.  Too many doctors know very little about sleep disorders and don’t understand their seriousness. –BillM

http://www.micronet.fr/~mondor

Response:

"Lori Lang" <70471.1…@compuserve.com

wrote: I finally went to the doctor and had a sleep study done.  It came back that my sleep is severely abnormal, I’m not getting to stage 3 or 4, and that I should take antidepressants.   I’ve tried 4 different antidepressants.  I had allergic reactions to 2 of them (Prozac, Effexor), and two made me sick (Pamelor, Serzone).  The only thing that has helped is Ambien, but that’s nothing that anyone will prescribe for me on an ongoing basis.  But it’s heaven.  It’s the only thing that works.

First, let me say I sympathize with you.  Don’t give up hope!  Myself I have had a very bizarre sleep schedule my whole life, but I feel better since I recently figured out I have Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome (with a non-regular pattern and bouts of sleep-deprivation…but anyway…) I might not have any advice for you, but I have a question because I am very curious about sleep disorders.  This question is for anyone who happens to know:     Why/when are anti-depressants prescribed for sleeplessness?  Are they only used in cases like hers where the sleep is very abnormal? When I complained to my physician of frequent insomnia, I was first told to take benadryl, and another time prescribed Xanax (only 10 of them.)  So, those would be more in the sedative category I guess (with benadryl actually an antihistamine and drowsiness being a side-effect?) I always hated the way those made me feel the next day–I don’t WANT to sleep for 9-10 hours and wake up feeling as though I have a brick on my forehead!  I love to be awake and doing stuff.  I tried melatonin too–it made me groggy but did not make me want to sleep, and when I finally went to sleep it was for 9-10 hours and I’d wake up a little groggy.   So, now I know that my natural sleep schedule is somewhere around sleeping from 9AM to 5PM, and I’d be comfortable doing that.  BUT in the mean time, I have in the past lost jobs for being late, been late for class, and I can’t guarantee I’ll ever make it to the bank, the post office, a dentist appointment, etc.  I’m almost impossible to wake up before that time–I sleep through all kinds of alarm clocks.   Now I have to get a job (I’m beyond broke from my summertime binge of sleeping when I want–but I ended up feeling like I was home with a disability), which means I have to get up at a decent hour to apply for a job, even to apply to work the night shift.  I have just recently tried taking 5mg of Valium, and am amazed that it has worked great for me!  I thought I would end up feeling groggy, but I have felt sleepy in a natural way in about 15 minutes after taking it, and wake up in the morning (ok well, it’s still the afternoon, but at least it’s early afternoon) feeling ALERT, moreso than I normally do. My alarm clock wakes me up!  (Still takes a few to get me out of bed, but at least I hear the alarms now.)  And I can do that after sleeping only 6-7 hours. So, can anyone tell me about problems taking Valium in order to sleep? Is my reaction similar to other people’s, and could I possibly use it to reset my circadian clock?  I have only tried it three times so far. I’d much rather sleep naturally, but it looks like that’s not going to happen. Thanks for listening, ~Moo * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Speak out against hatred and discrimination! Write your Senators TODAY and tell them to vote NO to the ridiculous "Defense of marriage act." * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * http://www.mindspring.com/~moomoo/index.html

Response:

In <01bb6ec9.66374280$5de5d3c6@#glang

, "Lori Lang" <70471.1…@compuserve.com writes:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

I need some help from anyone who can give it.  I’m 36 years old and I’ve been an insomniac my whole life.  I have trouble getting to sleep and if I get to sleep I can’t stay asleep.  I get 2-3 hours of sleep a night.  When I was young, I started taking antihistamines at night (I had allergies) and although I didn’t feel great the next day, I slept.  Any time I didn’t take them, no sleep.  I’ve gone more than a week with no sleep at different times in my life.  I could take antihistamines until last year, when they started irritating my stomach.  I had to get some help. I follow all of the rules:  no eating after dinner, turn down the lights at night, meditate, stress reduction, blah blah blah.  I’m convinced that whoever came up with the list has never had a sleepless night, because those things don’t seem to matter.  I’ve tried melatonin, homeopathic remedies, acupuncture, herbs.  I finally went to the doctor and had a sleep study done.  It came back that my sleep is severely abnormal, I’m not getting to stage 3 or 4, and that I should take antidepressants.   I’ve tried 4 different antidepressants.  I had allergic reactions to 2 of them (Prozac, Effexor), and two made me sick (Pamelor, Serzone).  The only thing that has helped is Ambien, but that’s nothing that anyone will prescribe for me on an ongoing basis.  But it’s heaven.  It’s the only thing that works. Unfortunately, I’m not someone who feels okay without sleep.  I’ve been told by three doctors now just to live with it because that’s the way I am.  I’d almost rather be dead than live like this.  It’s a nightmare (so to speak).

Nobody feels okay without sleep.  Almost everyone on this newsgroup knows how devistating sleep deprivation can be.  It’s a shame you found three separate doctors who merely told you to "live with it".  Are these general practitioners? Have you seen a sleep specialist?  It seems to me that you need the help of someone who specializes in sleep problems and can understand the severity of your problems when you don’t sleep.  I don’t know too much about Ambien but I have seen postings here from people who have taken it regularly – one person for a couple years, I believe. Please, see a doctor who is both willing and capable of understanding your sleep problems.  Too many doctors know very little about sleep disorders and don’t understand their seriousness. –BillM

Response:

I need some help from anyone who can give it.  I’m 36 years old and I’ve been an insomniac my whole life.  I have trouble getting to sleep and if I get to sleep I can’t stay asleep.  I get 2-3 hours of sleep a night.  When I was young, I started taking antihistamines at night (I had allergies) and although I didn’t feel great the next day, I slept.  Any time I didn’t take them, no sleep.  I’ve gone more than a week with no sleep at different times in my life.  I could take antihistamines until last year, when they started irritating my stomach.  I had to get some help. I follow all of the rules:  no eating after dinner, turn down the lights at night, meditate, stress reduction, blah blah blah.  I’m convinced that whoever came up with the list has never had a sleepless night, because those things don’t seem to matter.  I’ve tried melatonin, homeopathic remedies, acupuncture, herbs.  I finally went to the doctor and had a sleep study done.  It came back that my sleep is severely abnormal, I’m not getting to stage 3 or 4, and that I should take antidepressants.   I’ve tried 4 different antidepressants.  I had allergic reactions to 2 of them (Prozac, Effexor), and two made me sick (Pamelor, Serzone).  The only thing that has helped is Ambien, but that’s nothing that anyone will prescribe for me on an ongoing basis.  But it’s heaven.  It’s the only thing that works. Unfortunately, I’m not someone who feels okay without sleep.  I’ve been told by three doctors now just to live with it because that’s the way I am.  I’d almost rather be dead than live like this.  It’s a nightmare (so to speak). Does anyone have anything to offer that I haven’t tried? Thank you.  Sorry if I sound whiney, I’m just sort of desperate. Lori

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