Question:

I posted earlier that it’s starting to seem that albuterol is either not working, or, is actually starting to tighten me up, rather than loosen me up (paradoxical reaction?).  I seem to be tight all the time (have been checked for heart and other lung issues, but, nothing shows up). I finally convinced my doctor to try me on another MDI, so, he gave me Alupent.  I’ve tried it twice today (first time 2 puffs, second time, 8 hours later, three puffs, and don’t really see that it does anything–my pulse isn’t even going up, and, I don’t have any kind of nervous feeling. Any others have experiences with this? TIA!

Response:

Yep, I have asthma–all my life, and I’m 50.  I’m using Flovent and Serevent, too.  My doctor wanted to try me on MaxAir, rather than Alupent, but, the Pharmacy doesn’t stock it.  I’ve used the Alupent several times, and, it doesn’t really seem to do…anything–not even making my heart race. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I posted earlier that it’s starting to seem that albuterol is either not working, or, is actually starting to tighten me up, rather than loosen me up (paradoxical reaction?).  I seem to be tight all the time (have been checked for heart and other lung issues, but, nothing shows up). I finally convinced my doctor to try me on another MDI, so, he gave me Alupent.  I’ve tried it twice today (first time 2 puffs, second time, 8 hours later, three puffs, and don’t really see that it does anything–my pulse isn’t even going up, and, I don’t have any kind of nervous feeling. Any others have experiences with this? TIA! Alupent is generaly not considered as good a beta2-agonist bronchodilator for asthma, as albuterol. Alupent is not listed as a preferred drug in the latest asthma guidelines. There are other beta2 agonists that are listed, like terbutaline & pirbuterol. It sounds like you may need a steroid inhaler for long term maintenance; like Pulmicort or Flovent. Have you had PFTs [pulmonary function tests] to demonstrate you have asthma? Ellis

Response:

Question:

you know) particularly with sinus pressure. I AM going to talk to Health Services here and if they don’t have any bright ideas call my doctor at home again. Anyone know of anything I might try? — Emily

You might discuss taking a prednisone burst.  It is not a fun medication to take (I refer to it as "The side effect of the week medication.") but it should help you get through the cold. "The difference between genius and stupidity is that genius has limits." Einstein

Response:

Hi.   You shoudl be on more flovent. I was put on flovent 220 four puffs a day (the higher dose) when I was still having problems. your dose should definitely be increased!!! Ask for some flonase for your nose (isn’t habit forming, it is just like the steroid inhaler for your lungs). I have some similar problems to you, and using the albuterol too much, and using slo-bid (theophylline) were the WORST things I could do for any sort of anxiety attacks. Decongestant is FINE unless the doctor told you not to take it due to your other medications. Summary: get some extra meds to get you through your cold, and get the health people to give you the flovent 220! In the meantime, a pred. burst may be necessary. -jenny ideas as to what might help, that would NOT tend to make one nervous, i could really use them…the pseudoephedrine HELPS, but I still as I said had to use my inhaler in class a few hours after taking it this morning, and waking up in the morning or middle of the night gasping is not fun (as I’m sure many of you know) particularly with sinus pressure. I AM going to talk to Health Services here and if they don’t have any bright ideas call my doctor at home again. Anyone know of anything I might try? — Emily

Jennifer Gerbi                          http://www.students.uiuc.edu/~gerbi Univ. of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign   1-113 ESB             (217)244-0332

Response:

Talk to your doctor about all this.  Your doctor and you must decide how bad your anxiety disorder is and the risks of adding drugs that exasperate this condition.  However, it is common to do a short dose of oral prednisone when asthmatics get ill.  Talk to your doctor about this possibility to get you through until your cold gets better.  Upping your Flovent may help some but I’d probably go for the prednisone in this instance.  Again, talk to your doctor and see what he/she suggests to get you through it.  Pseudoephedrine (I’m guessing OTC) is a broad spectrum agonist against your adrenergic receptors so this is probably why you’re feeling more anxious while taking it.  Albuterol is specific for the beta-2 receptor so it mainly acts on the smooth muscles in your lung dilating them, although some gets in your system and can certainly make you more anxious also.  If it was me, I’d go for a short prednisone burst, but talk to your doc and see what they think.

Nah, I was told pred is for RED zone….I’m only in the upper end of yellow. And form what people here have been saying, that stuff gets people’s emotions terribly messed up all by itself. sounds like the last thing I want to be taking —

Response:

It sounds like a lot of your symptoms are related to post nasal drip. The nasal steroids are one good solution, but they will take a few days to do have an effect. The sedating antihistamines like Benedryl can dry the nose though their side effects, not necessarily from the histamine action. Avoid this if you are having a lot of chest congestion. Using saline nasal sprays every hour or two can help, as well as drinking hot liquids. If the Sudafed is helping your nose and not giving you anxiety problems then go with it. You will know if it gets you too hyped up. You and your doctor may just have to agree on a plan that includes stimulants when your asthma warrants and combat the effects with other sedatives. — Good Luck, CBI, M.D. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hey…got a little problem here. I have a cold which is exacerbating my asthma badly. I’ve had to use albuterol for it several times (including this morning in class. Trying to take notes on complex math with your hands shaking is bad) in the last week. Now, I’m using that when I feel I need to, and I talked to my doctor once already (first time I was in yellow zone since having the chart set up) and am on Flovent 44 3×3 instead of my normal 2×2. I WAS taking a nasal spray decongestant, which worked pretty well except for wearing off before 12 hours was up, BUT you can only use that for 4 days and my 4 days are up. I AM taking pseudoephedrine now, but I’m really not supposed to; I have some sort of anxiety disorder (that I’ve very recently been put on meds for) and so I’m not supposed to take things that could make it worse. Now, admittedly my instincts say that the psuedoephedrine makes me less nervous than constantly using albuterol….but if anyone has any other ideas as to what might help, that would NOT tend to make one nervous, i could really use them…the pseudoephedrine HELPS, but I still as I said had to use my inhaler in class a few hours after taking it this morning, and waking up in the morning or middle of the night gasping is not fun (as I’m sure many of you know) particularly with sinus pressure. I AM going to talk to Health Services here and if they don’t have any bright ideas call my doctor at home again. Anyone know of anything I might try? — Emily

Response:

Talk to your doctor about all this.  Your doctor and you must decide how bad your anxiety disorder is and the risks of adding drugs that exasperate this condition.  However, it is common to do a short dose of oral prednisone when asthmatics get ill.  Talk to your doctor about this possibility to get you through until your cold gets better.  Upping your Flovent may help some but I’d probably go for the prednisone in this instance.  Again, talk to your doctor and see what he/she suggests to get you through it.  Pseudoephedrine (I’m guessing OTC) is a broad spectrum agonist against your adrenergic receptors so this is probably why you’re feeling more anxious while taking it.  Albuterol is specific for the beta-2 receptor so it mainly acts on the smooth muscles in your lung dilating them, although some gets in your system and can certainly make you more anxious also.  If it was me, I’d go for a short prednisone burst, but talk to your doc and see what they think. — James P Picotte Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Hey…got a little problem here. I have a cold which is exacerbating my asthma badly. I’ve had to use albuterol for it several times (including this morning in class. Trying to take notes on complex math with your hands shaking is bad) in the last week. Now, I’m using that when I feel I need to, and I talked to my doctor once already (first time I was in yellow zone since having the chart set up) and am on Flovent 44 3×3 instead of my normal 2×2. I WAS taking a nasal spray decongestant, which worked pretty well except for wearing off before 12 hours was up, BUT you can only use that for 4 days and my 4 days are up. I AM taking pseudoephedrine now, but I’m really not supposed to; I have some sort of anxiety disorder (that I’ve very recently been put on meds for) and so I’m not supposed to take things that could make it worse. Now, admittedly my instincts say that the psuedoephedrine makes me less nervous than constantly using albuterol….but if anyone has any other ideas as to what might help, that would NOT tend to make one nervous, i could really use them…the pseudoephedrine HELPS, but I still as I said had to use my inhaler in class a few hours after taking it this morning, and waking up in the morning or middle of the night gasping is not fun (as I’m sure many of you know) particularly with sinus pressure. I AM going to talk to Health Services here and if they don’t have any bright ideas call my doctor at home again. Anyone know of anything I might try? — Emily

Response:

Hey…got a little problem here. I have a cold which is exacerbating my asthma badly. I’ve had to use albuterol for it several times (including this morning in class. Trying to take notes on complex math with your hands shaking is bad) in the last week. Now, I’m using that when I feel I need to, and I talked to my doctor once already (first time I was in yellow zone since having the chart set up) and am on Flovent 44 3×3 instead of my normal 2×2. I WAS taking a nasal spray decongestant, which worked pretty well except for wearing off before 12 hours was up, BUT you can only use that for 4 days and my 4 days are up. I AM taking pseudoephedrine now, but I’m really not supposed to; I have some sort of anxiety disorder (that I’ve very recently been put on meds for) and so I’m not supposed to take things that could make it worse. Now, admittedly my instincts say that the psuedoephedrine makes me less nervous than constantly using albuterol….but if anyone has any other ideas as to what might help, that would NOT tend to make one nervous, i could really use them…the pseudoephedrine HELPS, but I still as I said had to use my inhaler in class a few hours after taking it this morning, and waking up in the morning or middle of the night gasping is not fun (as I’m sure many of you know) particularly with sinus pressure. I AM going to talk to Health Services here and if they don’t have any bright ideas call my doctor at home again. Anyone know of anything I might try? — Emily

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hey…got a little problem here. I have a cold which is exacerbating my asthma badly. I’ve had to use albuterol for it several times (including this morning in class. Trying to take notes on complex math with your hands shaking is bad) in the last week. Now, I’m using that when I feel I need to, and I talked to my doctor once already (first time I was in yellow zone since having the chart set up) and am on Flovent 44 3×3 instead of my normal 2×2. I WAS taking a nasal spray decongestant, which worked pretty well except for wearing off before 12 hours was up, BUT you can only use that for 4 days and my 4 days are up. I AM taking pseudoephedrine now, but I’m really not supposed to; I have some sort of anxiety disorder (that I’ve very recently been put on meds for) and so I’m not supposed to take things that could make it worse. Now, admittedly my instincts say that the psuedoephedrine makes me less nervous than constantly using albuterol….but if anyone has any other ideas as to what might help, that would NOT tend to make one nervous, i could really use them…the pseudoephedrine HELPS, but I still as I said had to use my inhaler in class a few hours after taking it this morning, and waking up in the morning or middle of the night gasping is not fun (as I’m sure many of you know) particularly with sinus pressure. I AM going to talk to Health Services here and if they don’t have any bright ideas call my doctor at home again. Anyone know of anything I might try? — Emily

Regarding nasal sprays, the steroid ones are very effective and can be used long term; Flonase, Rhinocort, Vancenase A nonsteroidal OTC one that can be tried is Nasalcrom (cromolyn) It’s moderately effective and can be used long term; needs to be used 3-4x/day for a couple of weeks to become effective. Regarding Flovent 44, this is the weakest of the formulations. In your case may be more practical to go to the middle formulation, Flovent 110. A twice a day regimen should be sufficient. One or two puffs. The higher steroid dose should control the asthma better. You really should stay away from decongestants if taking antianxiety drugs. Also minimize albuterol useage, no more than once/day. Ellis

Response:

Question:

My left ear has been ringing off and on for the last couple of weeks.  There also seems to be pressure and slight pain around my ear.  I’ve had a sinus infection in the past on my left side that caused my jaw to hurt.  Is it possible that the ringing in my ear is caused by a sinus infection?  I’ve read up on Tinnitus and I am very worried about what I’ve read.  The folks who have gotten it still have it and there is no cure.  I have an appt. with an ENT in 10 days but am concerned that a sinus infection may cause permanent damage if not treated immediately.  Anyone have any experience with ear problems related to a sinus infection?

Response:

Yes- I have it. I thought I was the only one. On certain days, my ears ring off the hook and make me crazier than I already am. I find that if I take a hot shower, it relieves it somewhat. I keep trying to tell the doctors that I can "hear" all the fluid in my head but they just ignore me.

Response:

Andy, in my case, the ringing in my left ear is directly related to my sinus condition, also on the left side. On "good" sinus days, the ringing is low, on "bad" sinus days (heavy pressure and headaches) the ringing is very loud.  If you’ve had a recent sinus infection, do research to find out how you can return them to a healthy state.  Sinus problems are complicated and it seems  they’re very unique to each of us so the same cure is not the same for everyone. Good luck Brad

Response:

yes…i hear what your saying..i have been getting this horrible pain and ringing in my right ear for days now.. it comes and goes.. most of the probs with the ear canal is post nasal drip… i also get the numbing of the neck and stiff neck from it.. any one else out there get a stiff neck and numbing of the neck area off and on?.. but yeah man i hear you on the ear thing..no doubt about it..                Nate   (jersey)

Response:

when you "hear the fluid in your head, does it sound like a "squeaking" type sound or like someone is rubbing something in your ears.. almost like the sound of someone rubbing a balloon? it may sound crazy but thats what i experience…                please let me know a.s.a.p…!!!                nate  (jersey)

Response:

The noise I hear is a high pitched hiss

Response:

In article <s4fngl8tgs…@corp.supernews.com

,

  "Andy Alshouse" <aalsho…@opticalsolutions.com

wrote: My left ear has been ringing off and on for the last couple of

weeks.  There

also seems to be pressure and slight pain around my ear.  I’ve had a

sinus

infection in the past on my left side that caused my jaw to hurt.  Is

it

possible that the ringing in my ear is caused by a sinus infection?

I’ve

read up on Tinnitus and I am very worried about what I’ve read.  The

folks

who have gotten it still have it and there is no cure.  I have an

ay cause

permanent damage if not treated immediately.  Anyone have any

I am just getting over a bad sinus infection with ear infection and I also have the hissing noise in the ears now.  I don’t think it will ever go away it is something one will have to live with.  I bought a nature sounds machine and listen to that to cover the noise works well.  There is no cure for tinnitus, my husband has it too.  Just another thing to live with.  Luc…@aol.com

with ear problems related to a sinus infection?

— Re:  Serevent and Flovent.  My biggest problem is not being permitted to Sent via Deja.com http://www.deja.com/ Before you buy.

Response:

Question:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I am hoping someone may have some suggestions/advice for me. I have been diagnosed with ADD for which I take Concerta (36 mgs at 6:00 am). This has helped me quite a bit. I however start to feel tense and anxious in the afternoon which will build up until I take 100 mg Seroquel about 1/2 hour before sleeping. I work in the computer field which I enjoy very much. I can’t seem to let my work go and am constantly studying and extremely curious about computers/networks in general. It seems I am always thinking out scenarios in my head about various ways to do things. The problem is that this compulsive thinking is leading to my anxious state. My dr. has tried me on numerous meds such as paxil, zoloft, effexor, luvox, depakote, lithium, remeron, wellebutrin, etc. I am not depressed, I just am (and have always been) somewhat hyper and cannot relax. It seems any med that works with serotonin just gives me bad headaches. I respond easily to Klonipin, not so well with Antivan. I guess I have ADD and am somewhat obsessive/compulsive. Erv

ever try strattera? or good old tca meds like imipramine? LM — The charter is available at:

Question:

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

Response:

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

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

Response:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

AWESOME!  THANK YOU!

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Question:

would that be memory ‘loss’, or just short term memory is an effect in itself?  or do you mean short term memory is slowed, which would mean one would only remember what one did yesterday when yesterday becomes in my homestate this week: (connecticut))

Bikers? Or do you mean posers on "hawgs?" I don’t care what patch they wear, all I meet these days are suburbanites playing dress-up and gangster games. It’s not lost or anything. Short-term memory just becomes more difficult to access while under the effects of THC. After an hour, everything is back to normal, whatever that may be. — Compute Free <http://debian.org<http://freedos.org<http://openbsd.org Help People  <http://rawa.org<http://tibet.org<http://gadenrelief.org Do Something <http://www.msf.org<http://www.icrc.org/<http://icbl.org Now <http://www.foei.org<http://www.greenpeace.org<http://activist.ca

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Short-term memory is the most easily noted effect for marijuana, but other processes are slowed too, such as reaction time.

would that be memory ‘loss’, or just short term memory is an effect in itself?  or do you mean short term memory is slowed, which would mean one would only remember what one did yesterday when yesterday becomes in my homestate this week: (connecticut)) —Brian

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The wrong link for the Compassion Club listings. It’s with an ‘h’: <http://medicalmarihuana.ca/compassionclubs.html Maybe. Can’t seem to remember right now. hahahahaha — Compute Free <http://debian.org<http://freedos.org<http://openbsd.org Help People  <http://rawa.org<http://tibet.org<http://gadenrelief.org Do Something <http://www.msf.org<http://www.icrc.org/<http://icbl.org Now <http://www.foei.org<http://www.greenpeace.org<http://activist.ca

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I’m having a rough time with the side effects with effexor. It’s been years since I’ve done it but do you think Cannabis is a way to go to relieve some of the adverse side effects to depression and meds?

Some of them. Vertigo, dizzyness and nausea. It can keep you from choking to death on vomit in your sleep. It renders a sense of euphoria. It is considered a euphoriant depressant drug. It’s very good for pain. Being called a "depressant" drug does not mean that it causes depression. A depressant drug slows down some brain processes. Short-term memory is the most easily noted effect for marijuana, but other processes are slowed too, such as reaction time. As for being a drug, it sure looks like a plant to me. Food. I don’t smoke so I’m thinking more like Hash-brownies(do they still call them that?)

Only if they’re brownies made with hashish. Pot cake and pot cookies are popular. To eat it, and not have it cost a fortune or use a whole lot, you have to first melt the finely-ground herb in the butter or other fat to be used in the recipe. Then bake it. By melting it into the fat prior to cooking it will emulsify and the active compounds will be more available upon ingestion. Do not cook with hashish – today that is considered a waste, which it is. The quality of both marijuana and hashish has changed a lot in the past twenty years. Would love to hear some thoughts and Idea’s about this.

Look for a Compassion Club in your area. Ask your physician for a prescription for medical marijuana if it is available in your area. In Canada and some US states, you can grow your own or contract for someone to do it for you. A prescription and some licenses are required. There are also medical marijuana suppliers, but they are quite expensive since the marijuana is indoor grown, organically under lab conditions at great expense. The price is similar to black market marijuana. If you grow your own, or contract a grower, it can be done anually and outdoors and can be very cheap. I don’t know which states in the USA it is legal in, but there are a few. There are also ways to get it in Europe and Britian, I don’t know those either. But, just in case it’s useful, here is the Canadian government site for obtaining the forms for the permits and licenses: Health Canada: <http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hecs-sesc/ocma/ Compassion Clubs: <http://medicalmarijuana.ca/compassionclubs.html There are more clubs than what are listed there. Good seeds: <http://www.kindseed.com/ The favourites for medical use are: Jack Herer – Sensi Seeds (way overpriced, but hardy) Chronic – Serious Seeds (medium priced, longtime favourite) Chemo – Jordan Island Seeds (very good price, upcoming challenger) I’d go for the Chemo. It was developed as a medical grade strain, hence the name. — Compute Free <http://debian.org<http://freedos.org<http://openbsd.org Help People  <http://rawa.org<http://tibet.org<http://gadenrelief.org Do Something <http://www.msf.org<http://www.icrc.org/<http://icbl.org Now <http://www.foei.org<http://www.greenpeace.org<http://activist.ca

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snip Instead, I sit here with no way to solve anything,  Just withdrawing, knowing winter is coming, and I’ll still be in this stress mess.  I don’t have the energy I had before my trip to the hospital.  I need some help, and have tried everything, to no avail.  It’s complicated, and somehow there are no answers.   Just a big stress mess that is really taking it’s toll.

Sounds as though that spell in hospital triggered something.  Have you told your doctor what you feel like?   — —  Whiskers

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Pigtail, I’ve got lots of thoughts on this, including someone in your area that might just be eager to help.  Loads of experience (23 years) from having my ill mother with me in my California residence and having to deal with the problem of needing medical benefits for her but the State disqualifying her because she was my dependant, but if she lived in her own place, she would be allowed to have a live in caretaker and still keep her benefits, but if the caretaker was related to her she’d be disqualified, because then they might consider her head of household…..  I’m sure you know this song by now.  It was written by the No Way to Win group of bureaucrats. Let me get my thoughts together, I’m still having trouble concentrating, and I’ll email you direct later today.  Also, you mentioned that your mother is 87.  My mother was 82, but I’m only 43 (the baby).  I need to know your age, simply because, as we both know, the State can be very fixated on your age and what benefits and help they will let you receive all due to that magic number.  Direct email me with it, so that I’ll hear the message come in. Blessings, Cait

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi!  This is Pigtail back again.  Thank you Whiskers (love it) for your reply and help.  Thank you Alan for the great sense of humor in your message, and thanks Tara for welcoming me.  I appreciate all of you.  I have to say that I’m not really comfortable posting personal thoughts, etc., but could use some new friends, and support. I wish I could reach out somehow, and touch each one of you, and make things turn better…like quick for you.  My heart and thoughts are with you anyway.  It is hard to see other’s suffering. This will be too long to write at one time.  I live alone, and have helped the elderly and animals, my entire life.  I do many things for the less fortunate. A year ago, I had some kind of attack….physician said gall bladder, but I didn’t have very good vibes about it.  I had been out stacking bales of hay.  In brief, this became a nightmare from hell.  Before I was rudely interrupted and sent to the hospital, I was packing to move. You know….the entire house torn completely up.  Putting everything in storage, and trying to paint, digging everything out of the yard..(e-gads), etc.  I got out of the hospital in December, cold and raining, and back to the house just like I left it.  In no shape, or mood to do anything but look at it all. Here I sit a year later overwhelmed in trying to figure out how to ever accomplish this.  I can’t even find my good sense of humor….it is gone. I have became angry, stressed to the max, disgusted, and signs of depression lurking around me. Then I decided I would see about helping a couple people in the homeless shelter.  If I could find the right people, it would help us both.  I could give someone a permanant place to live, and maybe we could just get moved.  All of us could be close to homeless if anything went wrong with our income for a few months. I would need someone compatible, etc. and I didn’t know how to go about this too well.  I wanted someone that I could really help, and one who would appreciate it.  I finally decide to leave the house…….and go to the shelter. Well, that did not turn out too good.  They had to be screened, agree to see you, make an appointment, fill out all this information……  But, you can’t do it quite like that, it could mean losing your medical, etc. if you say they are living with you.  There must be another way, but I don’t know what it is. Nothing I try to do works.  I can’t figure out why. I have a whole business in storage.  I should be pouring plaster molds right now for Christmas.  It helps the animals, elderly, and the homeless. I do animal assisted therapy, and this helps support all of the above. Instead, I sit here with no way to solve anything,  Just withdrawing, knowing winter is coming, and I’ll still be in this stress mess.  I don’t have the energy I had before my trip to the hospital.  I need some help, and have tried everything, to no avail.  It’s complicated, and somehow there are no answers.   Just a big stress mess that is really taking it’s toll. Sorry this is so long.  We all have different things to deal with, don’t we?  Thank you for listening.  I’m here if anyone needs or wants to talk.  You can email me also, if you like.  I wish good things to happen to each of you.

— Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).

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The pot is a depressant and will just make matters worse. Tell your doctor about you’re trouble with the meds. He can make changes if he deems it necessary.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m a 48 year old father of three and married to a great woman. But, and a big but, I’m sick and very depressed. I have Hep C and hemophilia etc, etc, tried to take my life 2 weeks ago, etc, etc,… I’m having a rough time with the side effects with effexor. It’s been years since I’ve done it but do you think Cannabis is a way to go to relieve some of the adverse side effects to depression and meds? I don’t smoke so I’m thinking more like Hash-brownies(do they still call them that?) Would love to hear some thoughts and Idea’s about this.

Response:

Hi!  This is Pigtail back again.  Thank you Whiskers (love it) for your reply and help.  Thank you Alan for the great sense of humor in your message, and thanks Tara for welcoming me.  I appreciate all of you.  I have to say that I’m not really comfortable posting personal thoughts, etc., but could use some new friends, and support. I wish I could reach out somehow, and touch each one of you, and make things turn better…like quick for you.  My heart and thoughts are with you anyway.  It is hard to see other’s suffering. This will be too long to write at one time.  I live alone, and have helped the elderly and animals, my entire life.  I do many things for the less fortunate.   A year ago, I had some kind of attack….physician said gall bladder, but I didn’t have very good vibes about it.  I had been out stacking bales of hay.  In brief, this became a nightmare from hell.  Before I was rudely interrupted and sent to the hospital, I was packing to move. You know….the entire house torn completely up.  Putting everything in storage, and trying to paint, digging everything out of the yard..(e-gads), etc.  I got out of the hospital in December, cold and raining, and back to the house just like I left it.  In no shape, or mood to do anything but look at it all. Here I sit a year later overwhelmed in trying to figure out how to ever accomplish this.  I can’t even find my good sense of humor….it is gone. I have became angry, stressed to the max, disgusted, and signs of depression lurking around me.   Then I decided I would see about helping a couple people in the homeless shelter.  If I could find the right people, it would help us both.  I could give someone a permanant place to live, and maybe we could just get moved.  All of us could be close to homeless if anything went wrong with our income for a few months. I would need someone compatible, etc. and I didn’t know how to go about this too well.  I wanted someone that I could really help, and one who would appreciate it.  I finally decide to leave the house…….and go to the shelter. Well, that did not turn out too good.  They had to be screened, agree to see you, make an appointment, fill out all this information……  But, you can’t do it quite like that, it could mean losing your medical, etc. if you say they are living with you.  There must be another way, but I don’t know what it is. Nothing I try to do works.  I can’t figure out why. I have a whole business in storage.  I should be pouring plaster molds right now for Christmas.  It helps the animals, elderly, and the homeless. I do animal assisted therapy, and this helps support all of the above.   Instead, I sit here with no way to solve anything,  Just withdrawing, knowing winter is coming, and I’ll still be in this stress mess.  I don’t have the energy I had before my trip to the hospital.  I need some help, and have tried everything, to no avail.  It’s complicated, and somehow there are no answers.   Just a big stress mess that is really taking it’s toll. Sorry this is so long.  We all have different things to deal with, don’t we?  Thank you for listening.  I’m here if anyone needs or wants to talk.  You can email me also, if you like.  I wish good things to happen to each of you.

Response:

Thanks Tara. Paul in Ontario discoursed thusly: I’ve become one of those people who I use to call

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – is everything. I’m really living my worse night-mare! I thought I could handle anything in my life but mental illness mixed with a chronic disease is a one two punch that has rocked me to my foundation. I feel lower than a snakes belly!!! The important thing to keep in mind, Paul, is it’s *feelings*and not reality. The reality is, anyone who gets hit with that kind of one-two punch is going to feel shaky. It’s not weakness. It’s not failure. It’s a hell of a hit to have to take. So, cut yourself some slack. You didn’t ask for this shit, you don’t deserve this shit, and you’re doing the best you can in the circumstances. That’s the most any of us can do. Tara J. Ballance Montreal, Canada

Response:

Thanks all for responding. I kinda felt I was clutching at straws with the cannabis thoughts, but when you are sick and tired of being sick and tired Endocet pain killers which ultimatley led to my attempt at suicide. is everything. I’m really living my worse night-mare! I thought I could handle anything in my life but mental illness mixed with a chronic disease is a one two punch that has rocked me to my foundation. I feel lower than a snakes belly!!!

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Twist- I also suffer from Hepatitis C, and a number of my friends (who do also) SWEAR by marijuana as a great way to relieve the pain and nausea from the Hep itself, as well as the Hep tx. As I’m sure you well know, a number of us are put on antids before beginning tx because of the side effects of the interferon. However, if you are suffering from NATURAL depression, (not drug induced) I’m not sure that I would go that route. Even though it DOES take 2-4 (or longer) weeks to fully realize any relief from a new antid, if the sides are THAT bad, it is unlikely that the relief will outweigh them. I would suggest that you go ahead and tell the doctor that  you simply cannot take the sides, and try something else. Better to do it now, than to go through however long you give it, then find that it doesn’t work. Simply MHO though. Wanda

Response:

Twist- I also suffer from Hepatitis C, and a number of my friends (who do also) SWEAR by marijuana as a great way to relieve the pain and nausea from the Hep itself, as well as the Hep tx. As I’m sure you well know, a number of us are put on antids before beginning tx because of the side effects of the interferon. However, if you are suffering from NATURAL depression, (not drug induced) I’m not sure that I would go that route. Even though it DOES take 2-4 (or longer) weeks to fully realize any relief from a new antid, if the sides are THAT bad, it is unlikely that the relief will outweigh them. I would suggest that you go ahead and tell the doctor that  you simply cannot take the sides, and try something else. Better to do it now, than to go through however long you give it, then find that it doesn’t work. Simply MHO though. Wanda

Response:

I’m having a rough time with the side effects with effexor. It’s been years since I’ve done it but do you think Cannabis is a way to go to relieve some of the adverse side effects to depression and meds?

It definately won’t help with depression, except that it might help you sleep. It is an amazing painkiller though, if the pain is physical. I suffer from severe migraine headaches and marijuana is the only thing I’ve ever known to successfully relieve them (after 10 years of looking). I don’t smoke so I’m thinking more like Hash-brownies(do they still call them that?)

I go to an affluent high school rife with drug use and no one I know of bothers with mixing it into food. I’ve been told you need quite a lot of it to do this, which could be expensive? I don’t know how much your medication is though.

Response:

I’m a 48 year old father of three and married to a great woman. But, and a big but, I’m sick and very depressed. I have Hep C and hemophilia etc, etc, tried to take my life 2 weeks ago, etc, etc,… I’m having a rough time with the side effects with effexor. It’s been years since I’ve done it but do you think Cannabis is a way to go to relieve some of the adverse side effects to depression and meds? I don’t smoke so I’m thinking more like Hash-brownies(do they still call them that?) Would love to hear some thoughts and Idea’s about this.

pot is a depressant as is alcohol…stay away from both, hang in there, let the meds have time to work.  I’m waiting on mine to kick in (just started 3 days ago) and its not easy.  I have good and bad moments…you will too-post here, check with your doc, call friends, play with a pet…stay away from self-medication though.

Response:

Yes, I know. But everyone keeps telling me I should wait another 2-4 weeks to see if effexor will work.

If you are getting side-efects that you can’t put up with, then certainly talk to the doctor again.  There are lots of different anti-depressants, and each person reacts differently. Don’t stop taking the medication without talking to your doctor first; some things are best ‘tapered off’ gradually. — —  Whiskers

Response:

No, I don’t think taking an illegal depressant will help your depression.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m a 48 year old father of three and married to a great woman. But, and a big but, I’m sick and very depressed. I have Hep C and hemophilia etc, etc, tried to take my life 2 weeks ago, etc, etc,… I’m having a rough time with the side effects with effexor. It’s been years since I’ve done it but do you think Cannabis is a way to go to relieve some of the adverse side effects to depression and meds? I don’t smoke so I’m thinking more like Hash-brownies(do they still call them that?) Would love to hear some thoughts and Idea’s about this.

— Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).

Response:

Yes, I know. But everyone keeps telling me I should wait another 2-4 weeks to see if effexor will work.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m a 48 year old father of three and married to a great woman. But, and a big but, I’m sick and very depressed. I have Hep C and hemophilia etc, etc, tried to take my life 2 weeks ago, etc, etc,… I’m having a rough time with the side effects with effexor. It’s been years since I’ve done it but do you think Cannabis is a way to go to relieve some of the adverse side effects to depression and meds? I don’t smoke so I’m thinking more like Hash-brownies(do they still call them that?) Would love to hear some thoughts and Idea’s about this. see a doctor , there are lots of drugs besides effexor

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m a 48 year old father of three and married to a great woman. But, and a big but, I’m sick and very depressed. I have Hep C and hemophilia etc, etc, tried to take my life 2 weeks ago, etc, etc,… I’m having a rough time with the side effects with effexor. It’s been years since I’ve done it but do you think Cannabis is a way to go to relieve some of the adverse side effects to depression and meds? I don’t smoke so I’m thinking more like Hash-brownies(do they still call them that?) Would love to hear some thoughts and Idea’s about this.

see a doctor , there are lots of drugs besides effexor

Response:

I’m a 48 year old father of three and married to a great woman. But, and a big but, I’m sick and very depressed. I have Hep C and hemophilia etc, etc, tried to take my life 2 weeks ago, etc, etc,… I’m having a rough time with the side effects with effexor. It’s been years since I’ve done it but do you think Cannabis is a way to go to relieve some of the adverse side effects to depression and meds? I don’t smoke so I’m thinking more like Hash-brownies(do they still call them that?) Would love to hear some thoughts and Idea’s about this.

Response:

Question:

        What are some of the side effects of the drug Paxil? One         person has mentioned headaches.

Response:

what are some of the side effects of the drug Paxil? one person has mentioned headaches. Paxil (paroxetine) may cause side effects similar to those of the other major serotonin reuptake inhibitors currently on the market, Prozac (fluoxetine) and Zoloft (sertraline), namely:  dryness of the eyes and mouth, mild constipation, restless sleep or insomnia, and decreased libido.  i have been taking paxil for depression for the past six months and have experienced all of these effects, but they have all abated as time passes, except that i still have problems with restless sleep, and bruxism or grinding of the teeth during sleep.  i’ve been experimenting with timing of the dosage to prevent this.  apparently Paxil gives some people a feeling of more energy, and some a feeling of tiredness.  i was advised that it has the least side effects of any of the serotonin reuptake inhibitors, especially in the area of stomach upset and/or decreased appetite.  i haven’t experienced either of these, nor have i had headaches. i don’t want to take it forever, but i’ve had good results with it–in combination with sessions with a reputable therapist–for depression/social phobia. megan

Response:

        What are some of the side effects of the drug Paxil? One         person has mentioned headaches.

Response:

what are some of the side effects of the drug Paxil? one person has mentioned headaches. Paxil (paroxetine) may cause side effects similar to those of the other major serotonin reuptake inhibitors currently on the market, Prozac (fluoxetine) and Zoloft (sertraline), namely:  dryness of the eyes and mouth, mild constipation, restless sleep or insomnia, and decreased libido.  i have been taking paxil for depression for the past six months and have experienced all of these effects, but they have all abated as time passes, except that i still have problems with restless sleep, and bruxism or grinding of the teeth during sleep.  i’ve been experimenting with timing of the dosage to prevent this.  apparently Paxil gives some people a feeling of more energy, and some a feeling of tiredness.  i was advised that it has the least side effects of any of the serotonin reuptake inhibitors, especially in the area of stomach upset and/or decreased appetite.  i haven’t experienced either of these, nor have i had headaches. i don’t want to take it forever, but i’ve had good results with it–in combination with sessions with a reputable therapist–for depression/social phobia. megan

Response:

Question:

— Andy

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Andy, I’ve seen three "shrinks" and all three give me something different to work with. Each one though fizzled out, couldn’t get much more after the first few visits. YMMV and IME Charla Hi Guy’s I’m starting to think that maybe I should find a new shrink. I pretty much have everything sorted out now, I can deal with the PA’s if I have to, and if I don’t have to, or don’t feel like sitting through one I go home….. to easy. I’ve got off the Xanax and Zoloft which was only making me worse and am now on Luvox and serapax, which works great. So everything is pretty cruzzy apart from the odd up and down. The problem I’m stuck with now I guess is best described as mild depression / mild constant background anxiety / mild emotional distress, no big problem, just slightly annoying. The thing is, I go to the Pdoc every week and go "this is how I feel and this is what’s going on ect" , but I don’t seem to be getting any new answers. Its always, take the meds, go to places for exposure and desensitisation of the PA’s, CBT, exercise, meditate and stop yourself as soon as you start getting in to any negative thought patterns. I feel like I talk, he listens, but doesn’t say much and what he does say I already know, and am doing it. Should I be getting more answers, and more response from him? or is that about all there is to it…. just keep going as I am and give things more time? The reason I’m asking is because I don’t want to spend more time and money building a repour with new Pdoc’s if the answers are going to be the same. Thanks. — Andy

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Its always, take the meds, go to places for exposure and desensitisation of the PA’s, CBT, exercise, meditate and stop yourself as soon as you start getting in to any negative thought patterns. I feel like I talk, he listens, but doesn’t say much and what he does say I already know, and am doing it. Should I be getting more answers, and more response from him? or is that about all there is to it…. just keep going as I am and give things more time? The reason I’m asking is because I don’t want to spend more time and money building a repour with new Pdoc’s if the answers are going to be the same. Thanks. — Andy

dump him therapy is a collaborative event that is involving and goal oriented-listening is not productive to getting things done-the goal is to learn coping techniques and various ways to recover. LM

Response:

     Dear Andy,            In my experience  it has always been the same. I went to this one shrink. 12 visits and each time it was the same. I listened to him describe HIS phobias. I’d love to splash his name all over the place, but i won’t. What did help me was group therapy. Have you tried this? If not you may want to check it out Debbie

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Guy’s I’m starting to think that maybe I should find a new shrink. I pretty much have everything sorted out now, I can deal with the PA’s if I have to, and if I don’t have to, or don’t feel like sitting through one I go home….. to easy. I’ve got off the Xanax and Zoloft which was only making me worse and am now on Luvox and serapax, which works great. So everything is pretty cruzzy apart from the odd up and down. The problem I’m stuck with now I guess is best described as mild depression / mild constant background anxiety / mild emotional distress, no big problem, just slightly annoying. The thing is, I go to the Pdoc every week and go "this is how I feel and this is what’s going on ect" , but I don’t seem to be getting any new answers. Its always, take the meds, go to places for exposure and desensitisation of the PA’s, CBT, exercise, meditate and stop yourself as soon as you start getting in to any negative thought patterns. I feel like I talk, he listens, but doesn’t say much and what he does say I already know, and am doing it. Should I be getting more answers, and more response from him? or is that about all there is to it…. just keep going as I am and give things more time? The reason I’m asking is because I don’t want to spend more time and money building a repour with new Pdoc’s if the answers are going to be the same. Thanks. — Andy

I agree with his referral to CBT. It seems just what you need now. I am glad that you

Question:

Ok what is with Zoloft? I am constantly on the bowel. At this rate I’ll be the next Twiggy! Is it my nerves or what? I have been on Zoloft (100mg) for five years now and I was alright. I never experienced this kind of cramping and explosion before! Since the increase of Zoloft (50mg) all I have to say is, "LORD HELP ME." Anyway, gotta run (you know where!) Zedexa

Response:

OMG I wrote bowel instead of bowl!!!!!!! Guess what I have on my mind! Red Faced and Cramped, Zedexa

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Ok what is with Zoloft? I am constantly on the bowel. At this rate I’ll be the next Twiggy! Is it my nerves or what? I have been on Zoloft (100mg) for five years now and I was alright. I never experienced this kind of cramping and explosion before! Since the increase of Zoloft (50mg) all I have to say is, "LORD HELP ME." Anyway, gotta run (you know where!) Zedexa

Response:

Ok what is with Zoloft? I am constantly on the bowel. At this rate I’ll be the next Twiggy! Is it my nerves or what? I have been on Zoloft (100mg) for five years now and I was alright. I never experienced this kind of cramping and explosion before! Since the increase of Zoloft (50mg) all I have to say is, "LORD HELP ME." Anyway, gotta run (you know where!) Zedexa

I’m so sorry you aren’t feeling well Zedexa!  I wish I could help you with the side effects of Zoloft, but I was only on it for one or two days, I think, and that was 5 yrs. ago.  I hope you feel better soon! Hugs, Di

Response:

That’s always awful to suffer through, I’m sorry to hear your reacting that way!  Since you’ve been on the Zoloft and this was just an increase, hopefully it should clear up in a few days.  Maybe you have a stomach bug? The cramping sounds like it could be. Take care of yourself and drink plenty of fluids!  :) -Alan — Alan Derrick

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Ok what is with Zoloft? I am constantly on the bowel. At this rate I’ll be the next Twiggy! Is it my nerves or what? I have been on Zoloft (100mg) for five years now and I was alright. I never experienced this kind of cramping and explosion before! Since the increase of Zoloft (50mg) all I have to say is, "LORD HELP ME." Anyway, gotta run (you know where!) Zedexa I’m so sorry you aren’t feeling well Zedexa!  I wish I could help you with the side effects of Zoloft, but I was only on it for one or two days, I think, and that was 5 yrs. ago.  I hope you feel better soon! Hugs, Di

Response:

Hi Zedexa, I was very worried about this possible side effect, since my trigger on the anxiety was bowel related problems.  What I have done and been very religious about, is make sure I get loads of fiber in the diet.  I take care of this easily with All Bran cereal (you have to mix it up with another cereal you will actually like, or put other stuff in it).  I noticed a slight "loosening" of things when I began the zoloft, but have not had any D (knock on toilet bowl).  I’ve read that the bowel is a muscle, and in order to work it out, we need the fiber in there so it has something to clamp down on.  Maybe this will help. Mary

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – That’s always awful to suffer through, I’m sorry to hear your reacting that way!  Since you’ve been on the Zoloft and this was just an increase, hopefully it should clear up in a few days.  Maybe you have a stomach bug? The cramping sounds like it could be. Take care of yourself and drink plenty of fluids!  :) -Alan — Alan Derrick Ok what is with Zoloft? I am constantly on the bowel. At this rate I’ll be the next Twiggy! Is it my nerves or what? I have been on Zoloft (100mg) for five years now and I was alright. I never experienced this kind of cramping and explosion before! Since the increase of Zoloft (50mg) all I have to say is, "LORD HELP ME." Anyway, gotta run (you know where!) Zedexa I’m so sorry you aren’t feeling well Zedexa!  I wish I could help you with the side effects of Zoloft, but I was only on it for one or two days, I think, and that was 5 yrs. ago.  I hope you feel better soon! Hugs, Di

Response:

Ok what is with Zoloft? I am constantly on the bowel. At this rate I’ll be the next Twiggy! Is it my nerves or what? I have been on Zoloft (100mg) for five years now and I was alright. I never experienced this kind of cramping and explosion before! Since the increase of Zoloft (50mg) all I have to say is, "LORD HELP ME." Anyway, gotta run (you know where!) Zedexa

Hi Zedexa, Zoloft, like all SSRIs, alters the movement of serotonin. While its target is the small amount used by the brain, it also affects serotonin pathways in the body. Most serotonin is actually made/used by the gut (about 95%), another few percent is found in blood vessels and the skin also contains some, especially if its injured (burns/sunburn/infection etc). It should settle down. If you have upped the dose by 50mg in one go, then you might want to cut back and ramp it up more slowly. However, get your doc to check on this, it may be something else. Probably not, but you never know. And if it becomes an ongoing problem, then  consider changing to a tricyclic. But, be warned, they usually cause the opposite effect – constipation. Good luck                                               Zu

Response:

Question:

 Well, I have stumbled into a setback the last few days…I am much more functional since I started the Zoloft, and when my time is occupied I do pretty dang well…However, the last couple of days, I have been alone with not much to occupy my time…This has been difficult…Not as bad as before but difficult…Today I cannot enjoy my usual Sunday morning lounge with paper in hand…Now I am begining to worry that I have peaked in the effect I will get from the Zoloft/Xanax combo…Could this be?  I am just about through with week 4 (2 weeks at 50, 2 at 100), will I see more improvement as the weeks go on…I got lots of improvement after 2 weeks, but haven’t seen any since…Need some good stuff today from you all!

Hi Charles, I can only speak from my experience with Paxil, the way I felt at week 4 was alright, the way I felt at  week 8 was good. I had a slow but steady improvement from the second week on Paxil which was the beginning of April, all the way through the summer, even though I didn`t increase my dose past the beginning of May. And I do remember having a off week around week 9 or 10, it had to do with a conflict I had with a family member. And I was so afraid I was having a setback or the med stopped working, which just added to my anxiety. Being alone use to  be a trigger for my anxiety, I think it was a lack of stimulation for me. I can tell you since being on Paxil, I LOVE being alone when I have the opportunity. My husband just had a business trip to Mexico, and normally I would be anxious, I enjoyed him being gone, this tells me I am really doing well( or maybe it is that he annoys the hell out of me <g ) You are having a rough week, but the Zoloft probably has not reached full effectiveness. You have to give it more time. I know this is easier said than done, but you need to occupy your mind. When I had a problem with boredom, what would happen is my thoughts turn inward, thinking about my anxiety and monitoring every sensation and twitch I was having. Even though you are having a bad time, from what you wrote I see improvement.  Sometimes getting better isn`t just measured in  having "good" days, but how we handle our bad days, and you say yourself, it is not as difficult as before. That tells me Zoloft is having a effect on you. Patience my dear friend, you will get there. *Hugs* P.S. And in a few weeks, if you feel you are`nt at the place you want to be, maybe increasing the Zoloft, you can go as high as 200mgs. Jackie "Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, The courage to change the things I cannot accept, And the wisdom to  hide the bodies of those I had to kill today because they ticked me  off and also, help me to be careful of the toes I step on today, as  they may be connected to the butt I may have to kiss tomorrow.

Response:

Hi Charles! I cannot help with the meds questions, but I did want you to know that I am sending positive thoughts your way1 I hope you feel better soon! Being alone is tough, I know but you will get through it! Hang in there! Steph

Charles Writes: – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -To all:  Well, I have stumbled into a setback the last few days…I am much more functional since I started the Zoloft, and when my time is occupied I do pretty dang well…However, the last couple of days, I have been alone with not much to occupy my time…This has been difficult…Not as bad as before but difficult…Today I cannot enjoy my usual Sunday morning lounge with paper in hand…Now I am begining to worry that I have peaked in the effect I will get from the Zoloft/Xanax combo…Could this be?  I am just about through with week 4 (2 weeks at 50, 2 at 100), will I see more improvement as the weeks go on…I got lots of improvement after 2 weeks, but haven’t seen any since…Need some good stuff today from you all! Thanks, — Charles Phipps

Response: