Question:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I suppose the heading says it all but I’ll tell my story of woe.  I am 39, diagnosed with asthma at 34 — although in retrospect, I suspect I’ve had it much longer (but I never complained to the doc. about my shortness of breath because I’m overweight and "knew" that he’d just tell me to loose weight).  When I was first diagnosed at 34 I had quit smoking for about a year — then I started again about 1 yr after diagnosis (we won’t discuss that stupid decision).  Anyways, I’ve always viewed my asthma as a very "minor" issue in my life. I took my steriodal inhalers — occasionally had to double dose in the AM — but generally I did pretty good.  I quit smoking on August 11 of this year.  On August 19 I woke in the morning and after ventolin managed a measely 150 on my Peak Flow (when my asthma is sort of in abeyance I blow around 400). Went to see the Dr. and was put on Prednisone — so I was taking Pred. 40 mg/day, Becloforte 2XDay, 4 puffs, plus ventolin.  Things seemed to get better — off the pred. on August 25.  On Sept. 1 I made a visit to emergency for a nebulizer and was put back on pred.  On the 2nd, I ended up in hospital with asthma problems but with the additional diagnosis of pneumonia in my right lung.  I was released today.  SO…. still on Pred. with all the inherent nasty side-effects there, eurethromyecin (antibiotic), ventolin, becloforte (soon to be flovent)and alledgedly on the mend.  However, I DON’T FEEL ON THE MEND. I feel much better than I did, I can get air into my passages, sort of, my peak flow is hovering between 220-260 (before and after ventolin), while after the nebs in the hospital I was getting about 310.  I’m not wheezing.  But, my lungs are tight, it hurts to inhale deeply, like I should, and I have so far resisted "double dosing" my ventolin, but the temptation is coming closer since I know that if I take my dose, wait 5 min. and take another, I can actually breath. Having now discovered "what" the problem is with asthma — can anyone tell me what to expect from here — what should I do, not do, see, take, not take….I’ve read the site that John Rhoades is linked too and the FAQ — I guess what I’m looking for now is some quick tips for the fast cure.  I’m back to see a Doc. on Sept. 11 — this is all complicated by the fact that my Dr. has left town and I was in the process of getting a new one with this "crap" all happened.  So….tell me — What should I be doing, saying etc. before and to the Dr.?  All words of advice appreciated.

Under current US Guidelines, you should also be taking a long-term, bronchodilator; either salmeterol (Serevent) inhaler [2 puffs x 2] or theophylline SR [TheoDur] tablets. Ex-smokers sometimes benefit from using the Atrovent inhaler. A new inhaler, Combivent, combines Atrovent and Ventolin in one inhaler, for those who need both. It would be advisable to have lung function tests in a pulmonary test lab after you recover, to determine how much of your problem is asthma and how much is chronic bronchitis or emphysema. The later 2 conditions tend to be caused by smoking. You may benefit from programs in smoking cessation, diet, and exercise. Ellis

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I suppose the heading says it all but I’ll tell my story of woe.  I am 39, diagnosed with asthma at 34 — although in retrospect, I suspect I’ve had it much longer (but I never complained to the doc. about my shortness of breath because I’m overweight and "knew" that he’d just tell me to loose weight).  When I was first diagnosed at 34 I had quit smoking for about a year — then I started again about 1 yr after diagnosis (we won’t discuss that stupid decision).  Anyways, I’ve always viewed my asthma as a very "minor" issue in my life. I took my steriodal inhalers — occasionally had to double dose in the AM — but generally I did pretty good.  I quit smoking on August 11 of this year.  On August 19 I woke in the morning and after ventolin managed a measely 150 on my Peak Flow (when my asthma is sort of in abeyance I blow around 400). Went to see the Dr. and was put on Prednisone — so I was taking Pred. 40 mg/day, Becloforte 2XDay, 4 puffs, plus ventolin.  Things seemed to get better — off the pred. on August 25.  On Sept. 1 I made a visit to emergency for a nebulizer and was put back on pred.  On the 2nd, I ended up in hospital with asthma problems but with the additional diagnosis of pneumonia in my right lung.  I was released today.  SO…. still on Pred. with all the inherent nasty side-effects there, eurethromyecin (antibiotic), ventolin, becloforte (soon to be flovent)and alledgedly on the mend.  However, I DON’T FEEL ON THE MEND. I feel much better than I did, I can get air into my passages, sort of, my peak flow is hovering between 220-260 (before and after ventolin), while after the nebs in the hospital I was getting about 310.  I’m not wheezing.  But, my lungs are tight, it hurts to inhale deeply, like I should, and I have so far resisted "double dosing" my ventolin, but the temptation is coming closer since I know that if I take my dose, wait 5 min. and take another, I can actually breath. Having now discovered "what" the problem is with asthma — can anyone tell me what to expect from here — what should I do, not do, see, take, not take….I’ve read the site that John Rhoades is linked too and the FAQ — I guess what I’m looking for now is some quick tips for the fast cure.  I’m back to see a Doc. on Sept. 11 — this is all complicated by the fact that my Dr. has left town and I was in the process of getting a new one with this "crap" all happened.  So….tell me — What should I be doing, saying etc. before and to the Dr.?  All words of advice appreciated. Many thanks.

I am not a doctor but I have had similar problems with breathing during and after prednisone.  Prednisone tends to bloat you just as eating a large meal can.  Your stomach can push your lungs up and it becomes very hard to breathe.  I would suggest to you, just as my dr. did to me, eat very small meals about 5-6 times a day. Your stomach will never be as full.  Pneumonia can also damage your lungs somewhat.  I can even be responsible for the onset of emphysema, especially in us astmatics.  I have asthma and emphysema.  Good luck and health to you. Sharon Adkins

Response:

I suppose the heading says it all but I’ll tell my story of woe.  I am 39, diagnosed with asthma at 34 — although in retrospect, I suspect I’ve had it much longer (but I never complained to the doc. about my shortness of breath because I’m overweight and "knew" that he’d just tell me to loose weight).  When I was first diagnosed at 34 I had quit smoking for about a year — then I started again about 1 yr after diagnosis (we won’t discuss that stupid decision).  Anyways, I’ve always viewed my asthma as a very "minor" issue in my life. I took my steriodal inhalers — occasionally had to double dose in the AM — but generally I did pretty good.  I quit smoking on August 11 of this year.  On August 19 I woke in the morning and after ventolin managed a measely 150 on my Peak Flow (when my asthma is sort of in abeyance I blow around 400). Went to see the Dr. and was put on Prednisone — so I was taking Pred. 40 mg/day, Becloforte 2XDay, 4 puffs, plus ventolin.  Things seemed to get better — off the pred. on August 25.  On Sept. 1 I made a visit to emergency for a nebulizer and was put back on pred.  On the 2nd, I ended up in hospital with asthma problems but with the additional diagnosis of pneumonia in my right lung.  I was released today.  SO…. still on Pred. with all the inherent nasty side-effects there, eurethromyecin (antibiotic), ventolin, becloforte (soon to be flovent)and alledgedly on the mend.  However, I DON’T FEEL ON THE MEND.   I feel much better than I did, I can get air into my passages, sort of, my peak flow is hovering between 220-260 (before and after ventolin), while after the nebs in the hospital I was getting about 310.  I’m not wheezing.  But, my lungs are tight, it hurts to inhale deeply, like I should, and I have so far resisted "double dosing" my ventolin, but the temptation is coming closer since I know that if I take my dose, wait 5 min. and take another, I can actually breath. Having now discovered "what" the problem is with asthma — can anyone tell me what to expect from here — what should I do, not do, see, take, not take….I’ve read the site that John Rhoades is linked too and the FAQ — I guess what I’m looking for now is some quick tips for the fast cure.  I’m back to see a Doc. on Sept. 11 — this is all complicated by the fact that my Dr. has left town and I was in the process of getting a new one with this "crap" all happened.  So….tell me — What should I be doing, saying etc. before and to the Dr.?  All words of advice appreciated. Many thanks.

Response:

Question:

Thanks .  I know I don’t have sinusitus or reflux.  the way the Dr. explained it to me is that certain fumes or irritants in the air act on my lungs like putting your hand in bleach water for a while would act on the skin on your hand.  I’ll contact my Dr. about stronger inhaled steroids and check into the place in Denver.  Great idea about an action plan.  Sometimes it’s hard to tell how much oxygen I’m getting because when I’m around the triggers it just keeps building. If I would wheeze right away I could tell better.  Usually I just get coated over in my lungs and my heart starts racing, trying to get enough air.  I usually can get air into my lungs but it doesn’t’ do a lot of good because everything is coated over.  Anyway, I usually have to stay away from the triggers, and then lay slanted, with my head down to get unplugged. Again thanks for the good information.  I’ve been feeling pretty stranded

Response:

    I have asthma that mimics bronchitis and goes into pneumonia, pluresy, and whatever else  they want to label it.  I take accolate, combivent, in the hand held and with a nebulizer depending on my choice, vanceril, guaifenicin, flonaise, and allegra-D on a regular basis.  Then I take oral steroids and appropriate anti-biotics when indicated.  Even with all this my asthma is not controlled,  I try as much as possible to live in a controlled environment.  I clean with baking soda and vinegar as all other cleaning supplies triggers an attack.  The Dr. says that my asthma appears to be triggered by a laundry list of substances that are caustic to me.  Is there anything else that is available to help me not be homebound?

Perhaps you need to increase your dose of inhaled steroids, Vanceril in your case. Per the NHLBI EPR2 Low Dose = 4-12 pf/day Moderate Dose = 12-20 pf/day High Dose 20 pf/day (typically to 40) Vanceril is a rather weak steroid inhaler. You could cut the number of puffs in half by going to Vanceril Double Strength; or switch to a higher strength one–Pulmicort or Flovent 220. These require even fewer puffs. The new guidelines recommend using a peak flow meter to monitor lung condition at home, and an Action Plan to increase meds when peak flows drop or symptoms increase. Many difficult cases of asthma are related either to sinusitis or GE reflux. Those with difficult asthma may benefit from a trip to National Jewish Center in Denver for a full evaluation. www.njc.org   800-222-LUNG Ellis

Response:

    I have asthma that mimics bronchitis and goes into pneumonia, pluresy, and whatever else  they want to label it.  I take accolate, combivent, in the hand held and with a nebulizer depending on my choice, vanceril, guaifenicin, flonaise, and allegra-D on a regular basis.  Then I take oral steroids and appropriate anti-biotics when indicated.  Even with all this my asthma is not controlled,  I try as much as possible to live in a controlled environment.  I clean with baking soda and vinegar as all other cleaning supplies triggers an attack.  The Dr. says that my asthma appears to be triggered by a laundry list of substances that are caustic to me.  Is there anything else that is available to help me not be homebound?

Response:

Question:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Short story is I’ve been tapering off of Effexor for over 1 month now. I wasn’t on it more than 2 months.  Tapered down to 1/8 capsule (75mg) for weeks then try to stop. I am still getting something very similar to the famous "brain zap". These are somewhat different because along with the weird feeling, they seem to happen more often while making sudden moves and I get dizzy for a second or two.  It doesn’t feel as if it’s just a balance/vertigo issue but I am worried it may be. After a few days without effexor they come back, today I took about 1/8 of a capsule again and that normally makes it go away for a day or two. Any advice is appreciated.  What seemed like a great Dr. is turning into an idiot, he doesn’t even know what a brain zap is. Tony Hi Tony, Honestly, I’m not sure I know what a "brain zap" is either. Can you suggest a definition to add to our dictionary?

Chip gave a good medical description.  For me, in laymans terms, a "brain zap" is a strange feeling, sort of like a low voltage electric shock that goes through my nerves from my brain down to my toes. Sometimes it’s more rescricted to my head and neck area.  They normally last a second or less.  Long ago when tapering off Paxil (tapering too fast), I had one zap that dropped me to my knees.  I lost control over my muscles and down I went. Although I’ve never fainted during one, it sure feels like it could happen, that’s the main reason they scare me.  There is no warning when it can happen so it could happen anywhere, anytime, like while crossing the street. Otherwise, your mention of dizziness reminded me of recent entry in the history site: 2007 Feb The Archives of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery publishes a study indicating that 60% of a type of chronic dizziness cases, called "psychogenic dizziness" or "chronic subjective dizziness," are associated with anxiety disorders. The study involved 345 patients, ages 15 to 89, with chronic subjective dizziness for at least 3-months, from 1998 to 2004. The study was conducted by Jeffrey Staab, M.D., and Michael J. Ruckenstein, M.D., of the University of Pennsylvania.

I’ll have to look this up later, although I don’t think it’s the same thing.  The brain zaps are quite common when discontinuing an SSRI and now I found also tapering off an SNRI, (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor) as with Effexor. Tony — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

Hi, Tono, I’ve read a lot of the advice you have gotten from others and really can’t add any more to what’s already been said.  I hope these pass soon and please keep us updated. Oh, FYI 19 days smoke free here…  Trying once again. smiles, Elise

I’m wishing you the best!!!  I know you can do it!!!!!! Tono — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

Hi, Tono, I’ve read a lot of the advice you have gotten from others and really can’t add any more to what’s already been said.  I hope these pass soon and please keep us updated. Oh, FYI 19 days smoke free here…  Trying once again. smiles, Elise

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Short story is I’ve been tapering off of Effexor for over 1 month now. I wasn’t on it more than 2 months.  Tapered down to 1/8 capsule (75mg) for weeks then try to stop. I am still getting something very similar to the famous "brain zap". These are somewhat different because along with the weird feeling, they seem to happen more often while making sudden moves and I get dizzy for a second or two.  It doesn’t feel as if it’s just a balance/vertigo issue but I am worried it may be. After a few days without effexor they come back, today I took about 1/8 of a capsule again and that normally makes it go away for a day or two. Any advice is appreciated.  What seemed like a great Dr. is turning into an idiot, he doesn’t even know what a brain zap is. Tony — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

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

Response:

I’ve been on Paxil 9 1/2 years. I cannot wait to try and wean off of it. I guess I’ll be zapping for years ~~~

Jackie, I’m doing a slow wean off Zoloft. Have been on it 14 years and think I’ll see how I do without it. I was on Zoloft 100 mg/day, and now down to 50 mg/day. So far no zaps. Feel a little anxious, but that might not be related to Zoloft withdrawal. I was on Zoloft and desipramine to prevent recurrant depression. I withdrew off the desipramine before starting the wean off Zoloft. I plan to continue the Klonopin 3 mg/day to prevent panic attacks and keep overall anxiety level down. Chip — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – ::After a few days without effexor they come back, today I took about 1/8 ::of a capsule again and that normally makes it go away for a day or two. :: ::Any advice is appreciated.  What seemed like a great Dr. is turning into ::an idiot, he doesn’t even know what a brain zap is. Dear WB "zapping" Man<g, Sorry about the zaps! If this were me I would slow down the weaning process even more. Take the 1/8 of a capsule every two days, then every three days, so on and so forth. At the same time you can take less and less of the capsule. make you more comfortable.

Well it looks like I may get them no matter how slow I go, for now I’ll give myself a 1/8th pill every day before I start skipping days, or I’ll lower it to 1/16th.  Soon I’ll be counting the little balls of meds in the capsules! P.S. I’ve been on Paxil 9 1/2 years. I cannot wait to try and wean off of it. I guess I’ll be zapping for years ~~~

Oh my!  I’d ask to be put into a drug induced coma!  They could tap you into the power grid and light all of Long Island with your zaps! Then again, everyone is different.  I happen to be extra sensitive to it and for you it may go much easier than it does for me. Dizzy Boar Man — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

::Jackie, I’m doing a slow wean off Zoloft. Have been on it 14 years and think ::I’ll see how I do without it. :: ::I was on Zoloft 100 mg/day, and now down to 50 mg/day. So far no zaps. Feel ::a little anxious, but that might not be related to Zoloft withdrawal. :: ::I was on Zoloft and desipramine to prevent recurrant depression. I withdrew ::off the desipramine before starting the wean off Zoloft. :: ::I plan to continue the Klonopin 3 mg/day to prevent panic attacks and keep ::overall anxiety level down. Good luck with the rest of your wean. I hope it goes well. Keep us updated Jackie ~*~You are responsible, forever, for what you have tamed. You are responsible for your rose~*~   ~~Antoine de Saint-Exup

Question:

Hi Everyone, my name is Augest.  I am twenty nine and i have panic disorder and ocd sinc the age of 11.  I was on zoloft fot eight years and recently weaned myself off to try and go it alone.  A week ago all my symptoms returned and I have been having attacks 24/7 since then.  I am so despondent.  I had to drop my online college course, put my part time job on hold and delay my business I’m working on starting.  All I can do is have attacks.  I’m waiting for the zoloft to kick in, but I feel like a failure for having to go back on it.  I have a feeling  I will have to be on medication for the rest of my life if I am going to be able to function.  I am so sad.  Was I stupid to try and go it alone?  Has anyone else tried and failed?  Please write to me, as I need someone to talk to who understands. Always, Augest

Response:

Hi Everyone, my name is Augest.  I am twenty nine and i have panic disorder and ocd sinc the age of 11.  I was on zoloft fot eight years and recently weaned myself off to try and go it alone.  A week ago all my symptoms returned and I have been having attacks 24/7 since then.  I am so despondent.  I had to drop my online college course, put my part time job on hold and delay my business I’m working on starting.  All I can do is have attacks.  I’m waiting for the zoloft to kick in, but I feel like a failure for having to go back on it.  I have a feeling  I will have to be on medication for the rest of my life if I am going to be able to function.  I am so sad.  Was I stupid to try and go it alone?  Has anyone else tried and failed?  Please write to me, as I need someone to talk to who understands. Always, Augest

Oh yeah, I am dealing with this right now.  Putting the job on hold, med changes, etc.  Actually, I did try to wean myself off of my AD a couple of times and not with good results.  You are not a failure because you need medication.  Would someone call I diabetic a failure?  No.  You are going to be fine.  If you need your medication, there is nothing wrong at all with it. Good Luck, Vicki

Response:

Hi Everyone, my name is Augest.  I am twenty nine and i have panic disorder and ocd sinc the age of 11.  I was on zoloft fot eight years and recently weaned myself off to try and go it alone.  A week ago all my symptoms returned and I have been having attacks 24/7 since then.  I am so despondent.  I had to drop my online college course, put my part time job on hold and delay my business I’m working on starting.  All I can do is have attacks.  I’m waiting for the zoloft to kick in, but I feel like a failure for having to go back on it.

Hi Augest! You could take a benzodiazepine such as Xanax for your current panic attacks until the Zoloft kicks in. Bet you wouldn’t feel like a failure if you had to go back on  a blood pressure or diabetes med. You might be disappointed, but you wouldn’t feel like a failure. I have a feeling  I will have to be on medication for the rest of my life if I am going to be able to function.

You never know. At this point in time, you have to go back on. I am so sad.  Was I stupid to try and go it alone?  Has anyone else tried and failed?  Please write to me, as I need someone to talk to who understands.

I’ve tried to discontinue meds for panic disorder and depression on several occasions, but find I do best on a combo of Zoloft, desipramine, and Klonopin. Otherwise I start having panic attacks when driving on the freeway and start getting depressed. I’ve been on Zoloft for 10 years, desipramine for about 5 years, and Klonopin for 16 years. I have tried to discontinue all of these meds on one or more occasions and found I needed to stay on them. I think it’s a good idea to try to see how one does off a med from time to time. Also I have always tried to get down to the minimal effective dose for every med I’m on. Always, Augest

Take care (((Augest))) Chip  

Response:

I think it’s a good idea to try to see how one does off a med from time to time. Also I have always tried to get down to the minimal effective dose for every med I’m on. Take care (((Augest))) Chip  

I think you are right, Chip.  A minimal dose is best. I sometimes wonder what this drug is doing to my body longterm which is why I wanted off. I’m taking xanax as I wait for the zoloft to kick in, but it is not working as effectiely as it used to in combating the panic attacks.  I wish I knew why.  Used to be I’d take one pill and sleep like a baby, now it barely effects me.  I guess I’m in for a lot of long nights ahead. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Augest

Response:

I think it’s a good idea to try to see how one does off a med from time to time. Also I have always tried to get down to the minimal effective dose for every med I’m on. I think you are right, Chip.  A minimal dose is best. I sometimes wonder what this drug is doing to my body longterm which is why I wanted off.

That’s understandable. Don’t forget about the adverse effects untreated long term anxiety and depression can have on the body. To say nothing of all the suffering. I’m taking xanax as I wait for the zoloft to kick in, but it is not working as effectiely as it used to in combating the panic attacks.  I wish I knew why.

Maybe when the Zoloft was in effect, you needed less Xanax for anxiety relief. Currently your baseline anxiety level is way up, so you need more Xanax. That should change once the Zoloft kicks in. Used to be I’d take one pill and sleep like a baby, now it barely effects me.  I guess I’m in for a lot of long nights ahead.

I’d use the Xanax in generous enough doses to knock the anxiety level way down and block panic attacks untill the Zoloft kicks in. Chip

Response:

Hi Augest, I’ve been where  you are now. I tried lowering my Zoloft dose a few times to see if I still needed it.  The panic attacks did return at the lower dose. Your body is adjusting to the Zoloft now and that may be adding to your anxiety.  How much Zoloft are you starting at ?  Your "ride" may be smoother if you gradually go up in 50 mg increments every 2 weeks.  If you’re in a hurry and can "tough it out", then maybe you can go up in higher doses.  Follow your doctor’s directions and keep him/her updated. Maybe you need a benzo like clonazepam or xanax to relieve your anxiety right now. Tell your doc how you’re feeling and see what he/she recommends. Take it easy :  ) Tony

Response:

Maybe you need a benzo like clonazepam or xanax to relieve your anxiety right now. Tell your doc how you’re feeling and see what he/she recommends. Take it easy :  ) Tony

Hi Tony, I got the xanax, but it isn’t as effective on me as it used to be.  I’m trying to tough this out.  I’m hoping I can keep my zoloft levels low.  I started at 50mg two days ago.  I can feel the zoloft trying to work, but there just isn’t enough of it in my system yet to be effective.  My doctor said the same thing as you, to increase in two weeks.  I’m going to do that.  I’d like to stay under my old dose of 100mg though.  I didn’t like the side effects.  We’ll see what happens.  Thanks for the support. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Augest

Response:

Hi Tony, I got the xanax, but it isn’t as effective on me as it used to be.  I’m trying to tough this out.  I’m hoping I can keep my zoloft levels low.  I started at 50mg two days ago.  I can feel the zoloft trying to work, but there just isn’t enough of it in my system yet to be effective.  My doctor said the same thing as you, to increase in two weeks.  I’m going to do that.  I’d like to stay under my old dose of 100mg though.  I didn’t like the side effects.  We’ll see what happens.  Thanks for the support. Augest

Hi Augest, I’d hate to throw a monkey wrench into your progress but I have made the switch from Zoloft to Effexor XR because it seemed that Zoloft had stopped working after about 6 years.  This probably won’t happen to you.  I may have just been completely burned out from constant stress at work for many years.  Anyway, I have found that Effexor XR is a very smooth med, does not mute my emotions and doesn’t have sexual side effects. That’s my case, it may not be the same for you.  For instance, I initially went from Zoloft to Lexapro and was incredibly tired all the time from the Lexapro.  You may fare well on Lexapro. Effexor XR is an SNRI (Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor). Good luck with the Zoloft.  100 mg was my therapeutic dose although I did have some success at 50 mg when my stress levels were low. Tony

Response:

Question:

Let me just take a wild guess here and assume u took an ssri. I’ve been on and off mine for years, off now for at least a year, and I get the shakes in the morning for no reason. I now believe what it took exacerbated my anxiety but so did other things. You could cut out all caffeine, tobacco, get more exercise, practice deep breathing, go to cognitive behavioral therapy, but most important at all, i think, is not to obsess about it. just enjoy it until it goes away- it’s nothing to worry about.

Response:

You could cut out all caffeine, tobacco, get more exercise, practice deep breathing, go to cognitive behavioral therapy, but most important at all, i think, is not to obsess about it. just enjoy it until it goes away- it’s nothing to worry about.

Thanks a lot! I have been heading towards the same conclusion myself! More than the trembling, it is the _anticipation_ of the trembling that exacerbates it.Thank you for your comments.

Response:

Hello there,   I have had bouts of mild depression ,but i had taken medication and am now not on medicines. But, I have occasional bouts of trembling hands or legs and excessive sweating. This happens (not surprisingly) when there are other people arpund. When I take a spoon of sugar to put it into someones cup, my hands shake visibly. When I get onstage to speak , my legs shake like there is some spring inside them (I have never had shaky legs while going onstage until about a year ago -even though I did have stage fear). And, when I talk to people I suddenly start sweating profusely and sometimes my speach slurs (I then feel like words are crashing throgh my mind and my mouth ain’t fast enough to speak my thoughts).Once or twice , I’ve woken up with a start due to marked twiching of some part of my body which disappears as soon as I get up.This is a source of real social embarrassment for me. What’s worse is that when I start trembling or sweating, I also get anxious that I am t. or s. and this acts like some feedback mechanism and _increases_ the t. and s.   I am 18 years old and am otherwise healthy. I do not want to take medicine for this.Can anyone tell me a way out of this which involves only exercise and proper diet? And yes, my sleep cycles are awry and I have a sizeable sleep debt.

Response:

Depending on what medication you were on it may still be some lingering side effect. I am not a doctor but I have heard of this happening sometimes. It sounds to me that you may have symptoms of some anxiety disorder. I would go to the docotor and get checked to rule out anything else. I sure you hate to take meds however we all do but you gotta do what ya gotta do sometimes. Hopefully some type of exercise will work for you. Take care. Paul

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Wow, another young one!  I’m 18 as well, as of October 3rd. Anyway, I am on Zoloft, Xanax, and BuSpar, and the first week or so my speech slurred as well, not much, but it was noticeable.  My mom said it sounded like I was drunk.  So, as BlueFin said, it could still be a side-effect, depending on when you stopped the meds.  About the trembling, if it’s violent shaking you should talk to your doctor.  My arms and legs, especially my hands, tremble sometimes and shake when they are not supported and I am really anxious.  My psychologist said that this happened because an anxious person’s heart is pumping blood so fast that it takes it away from the limbs and they start to get tingly and shake.  Since you can still get up on stage, I say you’re doing great!  I couldn’t imagine doing something like that right now. Hope this helped,     Robin Michelle – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello there,   I have had bouts of mild depression ,but i had taken medication and am now not on medicines. But, I have occasional bouts of trembling hands or legs and excessive sweating. This happens (not surprisingly) when there are other people arpund. When I take a spoon of sugar to put it into someones cup, my hands shake visibly. When I get onstage to speak , my legs shake like there is some spring inside them (I have never had shaky legs while going onstage until about a year ago -even though I did have stage fear). And, when I talk to people I suddenly start sweating profusely and sometimes my speach slurs (I then feel like words are crashing throgh my mind and my mouth ain’t fast enough to speak my thoughts).Once or twice , I’ve woken up with a start due to marked twiching of some part of my body which disappears as soon as I get up.This is a source of real social embarrassment for me. What’s worse is that when I start trembling or sweating, I also get anxious that I am t. or s. and this acts like some feedback mechanism and _increases_ the t. and s.   I am 18 years old and am otherwise healthy. I do not want to take medicine for this.Can anyone tell me a way out of this which involves only exercise and proper diet? And yes, my sleep cycles are awry and I have a sizeable sleep debt.

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Question:

http://www.effexorfx.freeuk.com/

It linked to http://rxlist.com and I noted the connection between Effexor and blood pressure.  Though the data played down the impact of Effexor, it did indicate that Effexor did raise blood pressure in proportion to dose. I just had my blood pressure taken after 9 months of Effexor XR 150mg.  The first systolic reading was 170 and the second was 160.  The nurse was worried that I was about to have a stroke!  I stopped taking it for several days, today my reading was 145/90 (still too high but not stroke-level). I am going to go for a week without it and see what my blood pressure drops to.  Although I am somewhat overweight and my diet is not too good, I am convinced that the Effexor is the chief cause of my high blood pressure.  Just 2 years ago it was only 125 in a doctor’s office.

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http://www.effexorfx.freeuk.com/

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Question:

I’ve just come back from the doctor, (who was a locum, not my usual doc)  and explained my nasty side effects and withdrawal symptoms to him (see my posting yesterday). I told him about this newsgroup and several websites that back-up mine and other stories, and that I was by no means a single case of these effects. He said he was very worried as I seemed not to be able to stop taking the Effexor, and would be urgently contacting the manufacturers and notifying the Committee for Safety of Medicines (government organisation in UK). I hope he has some success. He asked me to revisit him next week, when I hope to be a little more in the know. I’m cutting down to 37.5mg twice a day, but deep down I know this won’t help. What this situation needs is a real investigation. Sure, it helps a lot of people, but for many it is a nightmare. Anyway, I’m waffling on; bye for now. Peter Finan Bradford U.K

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I just quit Effexor XR with my pmd’d permission today.  Didn’t have very nice side effects and after the extreme headache I got last night, I said, please, no more.  I am not prone to headaches.  I was only up to 75 mg once a day, so it doesn’t appear to be a problem. I will keep you all posted! Marilyn – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve just come back from the doctor, (who was a locum, not my usual doc)  and explained my nasty side effects and withdrawal symptoms to him (see my posting yesterday). I told him about this newsgroup and several websites that back-up mine and other stories, and that I was by no means a single case of these effects. He said he was very worried as I seemed not to be able to stop taking the Effexor, and would be urgently contacting the manufacturers and notifying the Committee for Safety of Medicines (government organisation in UK). I hope he has some success. He asked me to revisit him next week, when I hope to be a little more in the know. I’m cutting down to 37.5mg twice a day, but deep down I know this won’t help. What this situation needs is a real investigation. Sure, it helps a lot of people, but for many it is a nightmare. Anyway, I’m waffling on; bye for now. Peter Finan Bradford U.K

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I had a horrible time coming off Effexor, in bed for most of six days. The thing that helped me out of it was Prozac (fluoxetine). I took 20mg-40mg per day until I was able to get my new AD up to a high enough dose. Prozac was the best for me because I had taken it before with no side effects and because it has a long half life and wouldn’t cause its own bad withdrawal effects. (I had withdrawal side effects with Paxil (paroxotine) too.) Roger

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve just come back from the doctor, (who was a locum, not my usual doc) and explained my nasty side effects and withdrawal symptoms to him (see my posting yesterday). I told him about this newsgroup and several websites that back-up mine and other stories, and that I was by no means a single case of these effects. He said he was very worried as I seemed not to be able to stop taking the Effexor, and would be urgently contacting the manufacturers and notifying the Committee for Safety of Medicines (government organisation in UK). I hope he has some success. He asked me to revisit him next week, when I hope to be a little more in the know. I’m cutting down to 37.5mg twice a day, but deep down I know this won’t help. What this situation needs is a real investigation. Sure, it helps a lot of people, but for many it is a nightmare. Anyway, I’m waffling on; bye for now. Peter Finan Bradford U.K

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Question:

Hi All, I’m seeing my PCP about my concerns with Zoloft. I’v been on it for maybe three months now and the only positive thing I can say is that it was a far cry better for me than Wellbutrin. I couldn’t tell if the Zoloft eased the anxiety at the switch or if just stopping the W did it. Now for the problems–obviously not initial side effects. Weight gain and unable to lose it not matter what I do–I’m not in to fads, just a good diet and as much excersize as I can tolerate. I’ve tried low fat, then low carb–all smart and balanced as I don’t want it to be in vain as soon as I start eating normally again. But I get no results. This is chipping away at my self esteem (and this has never happened to me before and I’m in my 40’s). Gritting/clenching my teeth. At first I thought it was recent dental work (crowns) but it is getting to be so severe that it is causing headaches and I can’t chew anything more firm than cooked rice. Meat? Forget it! I have been back to the dentist twice and though I haven’t completely let him off the hook, I think since I notice the teeth clenching all day long, I have to take some responsibility and look into the Zoloft possibility. I have small involuntary twitching in my arms and legs. It’s unnerving–I hate it. I fear parkinsons or something similar though, again, it started after I was on the Zoloft for a few months. Heightened anxiety all of a sudden. I was down to .75mgs daily and now am up to twice that–conciously I think for the teeth clenching–it seems to help a little–but also my entire disposition, mood, all over feel. I have horrible nightmares every nightl. I can not even bring myself to tell you the content. They seem to last for ever and if you consider the worst possible thing that could happen to a parent, that is what I am dealing with almost every night. I seem to sob all night long, though I know dreams are very short. Consequently, I wake up with a horrible yet relieved feeling–but very exhausted. I used to get canker sores as a child. NOT COLD SORES–they are so often confused with one another. My mom took me to many doctors and there was nothing they could do back then–I’m hoping medicine has made some progress in this area. This has to be some of the worst pain I have ever had to endure and they seem to be nonstop–two or three coming on the heels of another two or three just healing. I am guaranteed a canker sore (mine always result from trauma) if I eat chips, crisp french bread, if I bite the inside of my cheek when eating. They last a good 1 1/2 to 2 weeks and I realize that the Zoloft may not be to blame but I like to be informed when I see the doc. I have seen a few studies posted here recently about the teeth clenching. Truly, I don’t know if I benefit at all from the Z. I am taking it for anxiety not depression. If anyone has any suggestions or has heard of any one else with a similar story. Any links to pertinent info also greatly appreciated. Finally, does anyone know how well Buspar seems to be working for GAD-ites. Since it’s not a member of the SSRI family—I read somewhere that pre-existing conditions can be exaserbated–something to do with the dopamine????? Obviously, I need some intelligent help here LOL.

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I have small involuntary twitching in my arms and legs. It’s unnerving–I hate it. I fear parkinsons or something similar though,

Hi.. I see you are in your mid 40s,, just have to ask, are you female?? I have found out that many of my symptoms including my anxiety ( which manifests itself in many ways) are all peri/menopause related… have you checked that out?? it does not matter if you still are regular, your hormones can start fluctuating and cause all kinds of symptoms… just consider it , unless you are male of course! Martha

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Hi All,

Hi Little bear I’m seeing my PCP about my concerns with Zoloft. I’v been on it for maybe three months now and the only positive thing I can say is that it was a far cry better for me than Wellbutrin. I couldn’t tell if the Zoloft eased the anxiety at the switch or if just stopping the W did it. Now for the problems–obviously not initial side effects. Weight gain and unable to lose it not matter what I do–I’m not in to fads, just a good diet and as much excersize as I can tolerate. I’ve tried low fat, then low carb–all smart and balanced as I don’t want it to be in vain as soon as I start eating normally again. But I get no results. This is chipping away at my self esteem (and this has never happened to me before and I’m in my 40’s).

Unfortunately alot of the anti-depressants can cause weight gain. Gritting/clenching my teeth. At first I thought it was recent dental work (crowns) but it is getting to be so severe that it is causing headaches and I can’t chew anything more firm than cooked rice. Meat? Forget it! I have been back to the dentist twice and though I haven’t completely let him off the hook, I think since I notice the teeth clenching all day long, I have to take some responsibility and look into the Zoloft possibility.

You can clench your teeth when your anxious, angry, or in pain. It might be a symptom of your anxiety or perhaps the dental work. A few hours after my sister`s accident I started clenching my teeth. It was causing pain in my temples and at times it was so bad I was close to tears. It seemed the more I focused on the clenching the worse it got. Believe it or not, chewing gum seemed to help me. What does your doctor say when you tell him you can`t eat anything harder than rice? I have small involuntary twitching in my arms and legs. It’s unnerving–I hate it. I fear parkinsons or something similar though, again, it started after I was on the Zoloft for a few months.

Twitching is a very common symptom of anxiety. I have had twitches in my arms and legs, the most annoying place to get a twitch is my eyelids. When I went on Paxil they stopped. Maybe your Zoloft dose is just not enough to relieve your anxiety. I think the only way to find out if it is anxiety or the Zoloft causing these symptoms is to get off of it and see what happens. Heightened anxiety all of a sudden. I was down to .75mgs daily and now am up to twice that–conciously I think for the teeth clenching–it seems to help a little–but also my entire disposition, mood, all over feel.

Has increasing the dose helped with the symptoms and the heightened anxiety? I have horrible nightmares every nightl. I can not even bring myself to tell you the content. They seem to last for ever and if you consider the worst possible thing that could happen to a parent, that is what I am dealing with almost every night. I seem to sob all night long, though I know dreams are very short. Consequently, I wake up with a horrible yet relieved feeling–but very exhausted.

When my anxiety is high for a extended period, I get terrible nightmares. I know what you are going through, I use to be afraid to go to sleep for fear of what I would dream. ((((((Little bear))))) I used to get canker sores as a child. NOT COLD SORES–they are so often confused with one another. My mom took me to many doctors and there was nothing they could do back then–I’m hoping medicine has made some progress in this area. This has to be some of the worst pain I have ever had to endure and they seem to be nonstop–two or three coming on the heels of another two or three just healing. I am guaranteed a canker sore (mine always result from trauma) if I eat chips, crisp french bread, if I bite the inside of my cheek when eating. They last a good 1 1/2 to 2 weeks and

Hmmm, did the jaw clenching start after you started getting canker sores? I would bet that your jaw clenching is related to the cankers, indirectly. You said yourself it is some of the worst pain you have endured You might be clenching due to the pain in your mouth. You should tell your doctor about these sores, he may be able to give you a ointment to help with the inflammation. Avoid citrus fruit, tomato`s and nuts. I also heard that many of the toothpaste we use can cause cankers in sensitive individuals. I realize that the Zoloft may not be to blame but I like to be informed when I see the doc. I have seen a few studies posted here recently about the teeth clenching. Truly, I don’t know if I benefit at all from the Z. I am taking it for anxiety not depression. If anyone has any suggestions or has heard of any one else with a similar story. Any links to pertinent info also greatly appreciated. Finally, does anyone know how well Buspar seems to be working for GAD-ites. Since it’s not a member of the SSRI family—I read somewhere that pre-existing conditions can be exaserbated–something to do with the dopamine????? Obviously, I need some intelligent help here LOL.

Buspar is effective for generalized anxiety disorder, which is what I think you said you have. You don`t suffer from panic attacks, right? I don`t think it would hurt to try the Buspar.

really think for your best interest you should see a psych doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Most MD`s  just don`t have the knowledge to treat anxiety disorders properly. Take care and good luck tomorrow. *Hugs* Jackie

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Question:

Hi Sherri.  I was here about two years ago and now I’m back.  But I don’t feel depressed.  Right now, I should add.  I take prozac and I am also 28. Depression is pretty much a biweekly battle for me (meaning, every two weeks, it tries to take me down). – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I was here about a year ago, looking for some support for this horrible feeling. Now I’m back. I don’t think this will ever go away. Sometimes giving in sounds much better.  From some of your post you know what i mean. I was really gone last year at this time, but I’m feeling better now. Who knows about tomorrow. Well anyway I really would like to get to know some of you. But I really don’t know how to start. I was wondering how many woman verses men there are that  suffer  from depression. And also the age. I’m wondering if you fell the same as I do. Are most of you taking medication? If so what do you take, and are you getting better? I’ve probably taken about 15 different kinds. I feel like I’m riding a roller coaster ride that makes me sick. UP Down UP DOWN   Hopefully you can answer some of my questions. Anxiously awaiting you reply.                 Sherri

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Note: the following sweeping generalizations are based on my opinion and experience, not on anything scientifically reliable, like a Cosmo quiz or Glamour poll Realize that Men Don’t Cry

Question:

Ari, I wonder if he meant that hair loss is not an issue with SSRIs in general, or specifically not a problem with Zoloft?  If it’s the latter, maybe I’ll switch from Prozac, which seems to be causing some mild & subtle hair loss for me. But I do think that all SSRIs warn that it is a rare side effect. — Ari

I was pretty amazed to see all sorts of discussion lists on the web with lots of people saying that all sorts of different SSRIs were causing hair loss.  The two worst offenders seemed to be Paxil and Zoloft.  But Prozac was in there, too.  Now, maybe it was just that the people with the hair loss were posting, and actually very few people had hair loss.  But, from what I read (spent many hours reading all this stuff one night, all the while checking my hair to make sure it indeed still was up there), it seems to be more than rare. Matt

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Well, I logged in to post a question about hairloss with serzone.  I may be imagining it (but I don’t think so), but it seems my scalp has been itching more than usual since starting serzone, and after washing my hair I lose lots of hair (more than usual by about half).  Anyone else?

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I didn’t have much before I started Serzone! (8 ^O —— Ahhhhh! OH NO I’M BALD *Grin* But anything’s possible…. Cheers, Mike from OZ

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Well, I logged in to post a question about hairloss with serzone.  I may be imagining it (but I don’t think so), but it seems my scalp has been itching more than usual since starting serzone, and after washing my hair I lose lots of hair (more than usual by about half).  Anyone else?

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Ari, I wonder if he meant that hair loss is not an issue with SSRIs in general, or specifically not a problem with Zoloft?  If it’s the latter, maybe I’ll switch from Prozac, which seems to be causing some mild & subtle hair loss for me. But I do think that all SSRIs warn that it is a rare side effect. — Ari I was pretty amazed to see all sorts of discussion lists on the web with lots of people saying that all sorts of different SSRIs were causing hair loss.  The two worst offenders seemed to be Paxil and Zoloft.  But Prozac was in there, too.  Now, maybe it was just that the people with the hair loss were posting, and actually very few people had hair loss.  But, from what I read (spent many hours reading all this stuff one night, all the while checking my hair to make sure it indeed still was up there), it seems to be more than rare. Matt

It’s too early to tell if it’s working, but I got myself on the same kind of vitamin regimen adopted by some depakote users.  The consensus on a few online forums seems that selenium and zinc (and to a lesser degree choline, inositol, vitamin B and folic acid) is sometimes useful for people on mood stabilizers (is that the right term?).  I have been taking them for two months, and perhaps there has been less hair loss recently (25 hairs/day versus 45), but it’s still early.  Mind you, my wife thinks I’m imagining things, but I have definitely noticed some subtle fallout since I began Prozac in November 97.  But at this point, since the hair loss is so mild, I prefer to stick with Prozac a bit longer; it works too well otherwise for me not to. Ari

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    Interesting, I know it can be a problem with depakote, but I haven’t heard of antidepressant doing it. Tim, Try an altavista with +hair +zoloft (or prozac or paxil or effexor, for that matter). Matt

I never had that problem when I was on zoloft but it is listed as a side effect. John

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – : : I’m currently on Zoloft, and it’s working great for me. Some mild side : effects, but nothing I can’t live with. I haven’t noticed any hair loss : after five weeks, but then, I haven’t got much hair left to lose . : : I’m seeing my psychiatrist this afternoon. I’ll ask him how common this : problem is and get back to you. : : –Ed : Thanks Ed–I look forward to the report. : Best, : Matt Matt, According to my doc (who’s a good guy, very smart), hair loss is *not* a side effect of Zoloft. It is with other meds (which, he didn’t say), but not with this one. I can see it now: TV ads for Zoloft which proclaim, "With Zoloft, your hair is safe!" –Ed

I wonder if he meant that hair loss is not an issue with SSRIs in general, or specifically not a problem with Zoloft?  If it’s the latter, maybe I’ll switch from Prozac, which seems to be causing some mild & subtle hair loss for me. But I do think that all SSRIs warn that it is a rare side effect. — Ari

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Have any of you had any hair loss/thinning with zoloft? Thanks Matt

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Have any of you had any hair loss/thinning with zoloft? I wouldn’t rule it out, Matt – I’ve certainly heard of it with Serzone. — Gary Cooper

So it looks like just about all of the new antidepressants can do this–I know that Effexor and the SSRIs can have this effect.  Now Serzone too, eh? One thing that I don’t know is exactly how common this is with each; since I’m on Zoloft I was interested in hearing other’s experiences with this drug. Thanks Matt

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Have any of you had any hair loss/thinning with zoloft?

I wouldn’t rule it out, Matt – I’ve certainly heard of it with Serzone. — Gary Cooper

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: So it looks like just about all of the new antidepressants can do this–I : know that Effexor and the SSRIs can have this effect.  Now Serzone too, : eh? : One thing that I don’t know is exactly how common this is with each; since : I’m on Zoloft I was interested in hearing other’s experiences with this : drug. : Thanks : Matt Hi Matt, I’m currently on Zoloft, and it’s working great for me. Some mild side effects, but nothing I can’t live with. I haven’t noticed any hair loss after five weeks, but then, I haven’t got much hair left to lose . I’m seeing my psychiatrist this afternoon. I’ll ask him how common this problem is and get back to you. –Ed

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I’m currently on Zoloft, and it’s working great for me. Some mild side effects, but nothing I can’t live with. I haven’t noticed any hair loss after five weeks, but then, I haven’t got much hair left to lose . I’m seeing my psychiatrist this afternoon. I’ll ask him how common this problem is and get back to you. –Ed

Thanks Ed–I look forward to the report. Best, Matt

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m currently on Zoloft, and it’s working great for me. Some mild side effects, but nothing I can’t live with. I haven’t noticed any hair loss after five weeks, but then, I haven’t got much hair left to lose . I’m seeing my psychiatrist this afternoon. I’ll ask him how common this problem is and get back to you. –Ed Thanks Ed–I look forward to the report. Best, Matt

    Interesting, I know it can be a problem with depakote, but I haven’t heard of antidepressant doing it.

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: : I’m currently on Zoloft, and it’s working great for me. Some mild side : effects, but nothing I can’t live with. I haven’t noticed any hair loss : after five weeks, but then, I haven’t got much hair left to lose . : : I’m seeing my psychiatrist this afternoon. I’ll ask him how common this : problem is and get back to you. : : –Ed : Thanks Ed–I look forward to the report. : Best, : Matt Matt, According to my doc (who’s a good guy, very smart), hair loss is *not* a side effect of Zoloft. It is with other meds (which, he didn’t say), but not with this one. I can see it now: TV ads for Zoloft which proclaim, "With Zoloft, your hair is safe!" –Ed

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    Interesting, I know it can be a problem with depakote, but I haven’t heard of antidepressant doing it.

Tim, Try an altavista with +hair +zoloft (or prozac or paxil or effexor, for that matter). Matt

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