Question:

Tourette Syndrome seems to be an amplifier of chronic conditions.  It seems like the anxiety that I suffer is amplified when I have to deal with other chronic conditions.  I have had a lifetime battle with inflamation of my bronchial tubes and my sinuses.  Many times, the inflamations turned into infections.  These inflamations/infections have had a great affect of my performance as a human being.  When I can’t properly preform, my anxieties peak and my TS waxes.  Three years ago, we had a very serious forrest fire in Colorado.  It was known as the Hayman Fire.  The fire was south of Denver.  The prevailing winds moved the smoke north into the Denver area.  I suffered from some severe respiratory inflammation and my Tourette got worse.  I have a cortisone nasal spray that helps with the sinuses and a cortisone inhalor that helps with the bronchial tubes.  I have to fix the problem before it turns into an infection where I really start to have some serious problems. Fred in denver

Response:

"Fenisz" <fen…@aol.com

wrote in message

news:20050103122352.06555.00001642@mb-m22.aol.com… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

Tourette Syndrome seems to be an amplifier of chronic conditions.

It seems

like the anxiety that I suffer is amplified when I have to deal with

other

chronic conditions.  I have had a lifetime battle with inflamation

of my

bronchial tubes and my sinuses.  Many times, the inflamations turned

into

infections.  These inflamations/infections have had a great affect

of my

performance as a human being.  When I can’t properly preform, my

anxieties peak

and my TS waxes.  Three years ago, we had a very serious forrest

fire in

Colorado.  It was known as the Hayman Fire.  The fire was south of

Denver.  The

prevailing winds moved the smoke north into the Denver area.  I

suffered from

some severe respiratory inflammation and my Tourette got worse.  I

have a

cortisone nasal spray that helps with the sinuses and a cortisone

inhalor that

helps with the bronchial tubes.  I have to fix the problem before it

turns into

an infection where I really start to have some serious problems. Fred in denver

I agree with you Fred, each condition can affect/influence the other. Is there any chance all that cortisone is increasing your anxiety? Steroids can definitely do that. Maybe Sandy L. has some suggestions? Jo

Response:

Hey Fred,,,,,what you claim is VERY true……..on Dec 18th I git hit by another truck……..his died mine  survived and way I rented another 4×4 truck and te previous renter chained smoked…………NO one told me so the bottom line is this rental made my asthma kick up, they had to change me to Advaire and stop my Flovent and Serevent. My TS and SIB went off the richter scale! I had to start using my Albuteral Nebulizer which kicked up my ADHD……………………so now I can not take 2 steps without chouging hard and choking  and then having a Tussive Syncope(mini seisure)………….. It is now to the point water scares me cuz I choke! "Fenisz" <fen…@aol.com

wrote in message

news:20050103122352.06555.00001642@mb-m22.aol.com… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

Tourette Syndrome seems to be an amplifier of chronic conditions.  It seems like the anxiety that I suffer is amplified when I have to deal with other chronic conditions.  I have had a lifetime battle with inflamation of my bronchial tubes and my sinuses.  Many times, the inflamations turned into infections.  These inflamations/infections have had a great affect of my performance as a human being.  When I can’t properly preform, my anxieties peak and my TS waxes.  Three years ago, we had a very serious forrest fire in Colorado.  It was known as the Hayman Fire.  The fire was south of Denver. The prevailing winds moved the smoke north into the Denver area.  I suffered from some severe respiratory inflammation and my Tourette got worse.  I have a cortisone nasal spray that helps with the sinuses and a cortisone inhalor that helps with the bronchial tubes.  I have to fix the problem before it turns into an infection where I really start to have some serious problems. Fred in denver

Response:

"What about Bob" <ka1…@charter.net

wrote in message

news:PbkCd.53333$XH3.733@fe06.lga… his died mine  survived Glad your truck survived.  :)

Response:

Thanks but I may not survive these syncopes "Jodi" <hellofromj…@nospamcharter.net

wrote in message

news:jClCd.53364$%L4.23549@fe06.lga… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> "What about Bob" <ka1…@charter.net

wrote in message

> news:PbkCd.53333$XH3.733@fe06.lga… > his died mine  survived > Glad your truck survived.  :)

Response:

With ALL the BS with my health since Dec 20th……..things are strating to level off 1) I won my fight for a new CPAP( my 4th since 1992) after 2 failed sleep studies, my good CPAP died of old age and is NOT repairable …so they got medicare to buy a new good model that may last a while this time 2) my SIB has been so powerful since Dec 20th that my left arm is in such trama it is all knotted up. 3) Enterprise who I rented a 4×4 truck from , took one wiff indside the truck and belived me an wrote off the dailiy overage  I owed. PLUS they gave me a free one time rental ! 4) I am breathing on my own today for the very first time  since Dec 20th! WHAT a CONCEPT!!:) "Fenisz" <fen…@aol.com

wrote in message

news:20050103122352.06555.00001642@mb-m22.aol.com… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

Tourette Syndrome seems to be an amplifier of chronic conditions.  It seems like the anxiety that I suffer is amplified when I have to deal with other chronic conditions.  I have had a lifetime battle with inflamation of my bronchial tubes and my sinuses.  Many times, the inflamations turned into infections.  These inflamations/infections have had a great affect of my performance as a human being.  When I can’t properly preform, my anxieties peak and my TS waxes.  Three years ago, we had a very serious forrest fire in Colorado.  It was known as the Hayman Fire.  The fire was south of Denver. The prevailing winds moved the smoke north into the Denver area.  I suffered from some severe respiratory inflammation and my Tourette got worse.  I have a cortisone nasal spray that helps with the sinuses and a cortisone inhalor that helps with the bronchial tubes.  I have to fix the problem before it turns into an infection where I really start to have some serious problems. Fred in denver

Response:

I posted this on January 3 and just now on the 15th see it posted on AST.  Does anybody know why this delay in having my message posted? Fred

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

"Fenisz" <fen…@aol.com wrote in message news:20050103122352.06555.00001642@mb-m22.aol.com… Tourette Syndrome seems to be an amplifier of chronic conditions. It seems like the anxiety that I suffer is amplified when I have to deal with other chronic conditions.  I have had a lifetime battle with inflamation of my bronchial tubes and my sinuses.  Many times, the inflamations turned into infections.  These inflamations/infections have had a great affect of my performance as a human being.  When I can’t properly preform, my anxieties peak and my TS waxes.  Three years ago, we had a very serious forrest fire in Colorado.  It was known as the Hayman Fire.  The fire was south of Denver.  The prevailing winds moved the smoke north into the Denver area.  I suffered from some severe respiratory inflammation and my Tourette got worse.  I have a cortisone nasal spray that helps with the sinuses and a cortisone inhalor that helps with the bronchial tubes.  I have to fix the problem before it turns into an infection where I really start to have some serious problems. Fred in denver I agree with you Fred, each condition can affect/influence the other. Is there any chance all that cortisone is increasing your anxiety? Steroids can definitely do that. Maybe Sandy L. has some suggestions? Jo

I can’t say that this in causing an increase in anxiety.  The anxiety is created and increased by my inability to preform in a normal way.  At its worst, I demolished an auto in 1970.  I lost consciousness and rolled a car. 15 years later, I had an episode where I could no longer drive because I was seeing double.  I can now prevent these episodes with a steroid spray and a vasoconstrictor spray.  It is scary stuff when the drowsy sensation happens. Fred

Response:

  I think I saw it weeks ago? "Fenisz" <fen…@aol.com

wrote in message

news:20050115145325.23171.00000025@mb-m01.aol.com… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

I posted this on January 3 and just now on the 15th see it posted on

AST.  Does

anybody know why this delay in having my message posted? Fred

Response:

‘Twas 15 Jan 2005 19:53:25 GMT when all alt.support.tourette stood in awe as fen…@aol.com (Fenisz) uttered:

I posted this on January 3 and just now on the 15th see it posted on AST.  Does anybody know why this delay in having my message posted? Fred

Everything showed up normally here.  Were you using any news server other than AOL?  AOL is usually reliable, and the software doesn’t have weird features for you to accidentally turn on and get this effect.. — RB |  

Question:

Hi Relating to Medic Alert bracelets:  Does anyone else wear them?  I have moderate to severe asthma, and am on periodic bursts of prednisone, but not on any maintainance doses.  I also use flovent 220 4 puffs a day. Does anyone think this would be a situation requiring one – and if so what would it say?  Asthma, corticosteroid use?  I don’t have a clue, although some friends have suggested I should wear one. Thanks for any help. Sherry

Response:

Hi Relating to Medic Alert bracelets:  Does anyone else wear them?  I have moderate to severe asthma, and am on periodic bursts of prednisone, but not on any maintainance doses.  I also use flovent 220 4 puffs a day. Does anyone think this would be a situation requiring one – and if so what would it say?  Asthma, corticosteroid use?  I don’t have a clue, although some friends have suggested I should wear one. Thanks for any help. Sherry

I wear a Medic Alert necklace, with the medallion hanging in back. The engraving just says ‘asthma’ plus an ID # plus a phone # to call for more info. My personal info and drug useage is on file with Medic Alert. I am on Low dose inhaled steroids (6 pf Vanceril/day). Your dose of Flovent 220 is in the High dose category (3 pf Flovent 220/day) so I would be inclined to add ’steroid dependent’. You are also considered steroid dependent if you have used oral steroids in the last 6-12 mo. The tag could be very useful to emergency personnel if you were in an accident. Ellis

Response:

I’ve got one.  My asthma isn’t all that bad, but my parents would prefer that if I end up in an emergency situation, the doctors know that I have asthma and to be aware of that fact.  Of course, I’m also allergic to any form of penicillian and any sulfa-type antibiotics, so that’s on there too.  I guess all of these are pretty important, so that was my Christmas present last year.   When you fill out their paperwork, they ask what medications you take and who your doctors are, along with who to contact.  Personally, being away at college (for the next 2 years, anyway) and not having family close, I kind of appreciate the thouroghness of the system.  If I were in an accident, or needed emergency care, the bracelet knows more than my friends, and probably more than my parents would remember janet

Response:

Question:

Have you had your thyroid tested? for sure………it can cause all those symptoms!!!!!!!!!!!!

Response:

In article <3D1791AD.3020…@comcast.net

, FurPaw <furpawn…@comcast.net

wrote: – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

Dale Davis wrote: I have been having headaches, nausea and fevers for many years. At first I attributed these symtoms to perimenopause. However, after years of feeling badly I had a complete checkup at a number of internists and gyno offices. No one has been able to find out what the problem is. It has been one year since my last period and I am still feeling ill. I have a new symptom of hand tremors and wondered has anyone ever experienced this as a symptom of menopause? I am going for a neuro consult but I just wanted to run this by the newgroup. Many of the doctors have just said I’m probably depressed since all my blood work is normal and to go on tranquilizers. I don’t buy that diagnosis, I am not depressed. and am trying to get as much info as possible. I refuse to be treated for something that I don’t have. Hope someone can offer some help. Hi, Dale, and welcome to ASM! The three things I know of that cause hand tremors are anxiety/nervousness, essential tremor, and Parkinson’s.  I’m wondering if the first is the reason they tried to prescribe tranqs.  Otherwise, I’d think they would have gone for an antidepressant if they thought that you were depressed.  Did any of the doctors give you a test for depression?  There are several available, none of which would take more than five minutes to administer.  Here’s one: If they didn’t, shame on them! I hope you have better luck with the neurologist. FurPaw

Thanks for your response. I didn’t get a hand tremor until a month ago. The gyno doctors wanted to prescribe tranquil. because they felt the headaches, nausea and intermittent fevers  were not  menopause related and I looked depressed. I explained they would look depressed too if they sat where I was sitting with a headache, nausea and a 99+ fever. I couldn’t possibly be cheerful. No one tested me for depression. I’m waitng for an MRI and neuro consult. Although I never heard of hand tremors associated with menopause I was hoping maybe it was a rare symptom rather than the alternative diagnosis of brain inflammation, brain tumor, Parkinsons. Dale

Response:

Hi Dale and welcome to a.s.m.  For what it’s worth, I have hand tremors under two circumstances, neither of which is, I believe, directly related to menopause.  In 1998 I had a neuropraxia of my right hand.  I thought I had had a stroke and went to the emergency room.  Believe it or not, my doctor advised acupuncture (which I was getting for a shoulder injury) and it eventually went away by itself.  Affected my handwriting something awful for a while.  Now I get hand tremors from pain.  I have recently posted under other threads about dealing with unwanted facial hair and, respectively, electrolysis and most recently (today, in fact) laser hair removal.  The pain causes hand tremors.  I think it is wise of you, though, to have a checkup to see if there is another reason for them.  I have had headaches for many years, but nausea and fevers (unless you are referring to hot flashes, which, at least in me, do not cause actual measurable fever) is a good thing. Best wishes, RuthJ – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Dale Davis wrote:

I have been having headaches, nausea and fevers for many years. At first I attributed these symtoms to perimenopause. However, after years of feeling badly I had a complete checkup at a number of internists and gyno offices. No one has been able to find out what the problem is. It has been one year since my last period and I am still feeling ill. I have a new symptom of hand tremors and wondered has anyone ever experienced this as a symptom of menopause? I am going for a neuro consult but I just wanted to run this by the newgroup. Many of the doctors have just said I’m probably depressed since all my blood work is normal and to go on tranquilizers. I don’t buy that diagnosis, I am not depressed. and am trying to get as much info as possible. I refuse to be treated for something that I don’t have. Hope someone can offer some help.

Response:

Dale Davis wrote:

I have been having headaches, nausea and fevers for many years. At first I attributed these symtoms to perimenopause. However, after years of feeling badly I had a complete checkup at a number of internists and gyno offices. No one has been able to find out what the problem is. It has been one year since my last period and I am still feeling ill. I have a new symptom of hand tremors and wondered has anyone ever experienced this as a symptom of menopause? I am going for a neuro consult but I just wanted to run this by the newgroup. Many of the doctors have just said I’m probably depressed since all my blood work is normal and to go on tranquilizers. I don’t buy that diagnosis, I am not depressed. and am trying to get as much info as possible. I refuse to be treated for something that I don’t have. Hope someone can offer some help.

Hi, Dale, and welcome to ASM! The three things I know of that cause hand tremors are anxiety/nervousness, essential tremor, and Parkinson’s.  I’m wondering if the first is the reason they tried to prescribe tranqs.  Otherwise, I’d think they would have gone for an antidepressant if they thought that you were depressed.  Did any of the doctors give you a test for depression?  There are several available, none of which would take more than five minutes to administer.  Here’s one: If they didn’t, shame on them! I hope you have better luck with the neurologist. FurPaw

Response:

posted and e-mailed "Dale Davis" <d…@aloha.net

wrote in message

news:ded-2406020826210001@ip64-75-154-101.dial.aloha.net… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

I have been having headaches, nausea and fevers for many years. At

first I

attributed these symtoms to perimenopause. However, after years of

feeling

badly I had a complete checkup at a number of internists and gyno

offices.

No one has been able to find out what the problem is. It has been

one year

since my last period and I am still feeling ill. I have a new

symptom of

hand tremors and wondered has anyone ever experienced this as a

symptom of

menopause? I am going for a neuro consult but I just wanted to run

this by

the newgroup. Many of the doctors have just said I’m probably

depressed

since all my blood work is normal and to go on tranquilizers. I

don’t buy

that diagnosis, I am not depressed. and am trying to get as much

info as

possible. I refuse to be treated for something that I don’t have.

Hope

someone can offer some help.

I understand your frustration as I went through many years of ‘mis-diagnosis’ before I got an answer to all my symptoms. The best advice I can give is for you  to ask your neurologist for a brain MRI scan, it’s a painless non-invasive procedure. I hope you can get your health problems resolved quickly. — Shirley see my cat pictures at http://communities.msn.co.uk/Friendsfamilyandfelines2

Response:

Aargh – I forgot to paste the URL before I sent the message.  Sorry about that!  Here it is: http://www.mentalhelp.net/poc/view_doc.php?type=doc&id=973&cn=5 It’s a form that you can fill out on line.  It won’t give you a "definitive diagnosis" but it will help you to understand if you are showing a lot of the symptoms of depression. FurPaw – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Mink wrote:

Can you pls. fill me in on this depression test?  Is it a form with lots of questions on it? Thanks. Kate FurPaw wrote: Dale Davis wrote: I have been having headaches, nausea and fevers for many years. At first I attributed these symtoms to perimenopause. However, after years of feeling badly I had a complete checkup at a number of internists and gyno offices. No one has been able to find out what the problem is. It has been one year since my last period and I am still feeling ill. I have a new symptom of hand tremors and wondered has anyone ever experienced this as a symptom of menopause? I am going for a neuro consult but I just wanted to run this by the newgroup. Many of the doctors have just said I’m probably depressed since all my blood work is normal and to go on tranquilizers. I don’t buy that diagnosis, I am not depressed. and am trying to get as much info as possible. I refuse to be treated for something that I don’t have. Hope someone can offer some help. Hi, Dale, and welcome to ASM! The three things I know of that cause hand tremors are anxiety/nervousness, essential tremor, and Parkinson’s.  I’m wondering if the first is the reason they tried to prescribe tranqs.  Otherwise, I’d think they would have gone for an antidepressant if they thought that you were depressed.  Did any of the doctors give you a test for depression?  There are several available, none of which would take more than five minutes to administer.  Here’s one: If they didn’t, shame on them! I hope you have better luck with the neurologist. FurPaw

Response:

Can you pls. fill me in on this depression test?  Is it a form with lots of questions on it? Thanks. Kate – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -FurPaw wrote:

Dale Davis wrote: I have been having headaches, nausea and fevers for many years. At first I attributed these symtoms to perimenopause. However, after years of feeling badly I had a complete checkup at a number of internists and gyno offices. No one has been able to find out what the problem is. It has been one year since my last period and I am still feeling ill. I have a new symptom of hand tremors and wondered has anyone ever experienced this as a symptom of menopause? I am going for a neuro consult but I just wanted to run this by the newgroup. Many of the doctors have just said I’m probably depressed since all my blood work is normal and to go on tranquilizers. I don’t buy that diagnosis, I am not depressed. and am trying to get as much info as possible. I refuse to be treated for something that I don’t have. Hope someone can offer some help. Hi, Dale, and welcome to ASM! The three things I know of that cause hand tremors are anxiety/nervousness, essential tremor, and Parkinson’s.  I’m wondering if the first is the reason they tried to prescribe tranqs.  Otherwise, I’d think they would have gone for an antidepressant if they thought that you were depressed.  Did any of the doctors give you a test for depression?  There are several available, none of which would take more than five minutes to administer.  Here’s one: If they didn’t, shame on them! I hope you have better luck with the neurologist. FurPaw

Response:

I have been having headaches, nausea and fevers for many years. At first I attributed these symtoms to perimenopause. However, after years of feeling badly I had a complete checkup at a number of internists and gyno offices. No one has been able to find out what the problem is. It has been one year since my last period and I am still feeling ill. I have a new symptom of hand tremors and wondered has anyone ever experienced this as a symptom of menopause? I am going for a neuro consult but I just wanted to run this by the newgroup. Many of the doctors have just said I’m probably depressed since all my blood work is normal and to go on tranquilizers. I don’t buy that diagnosis, I am not depressed. and am trying to get as much info as possible. I refuse to be treated for something that I don’t have. Hope someone can offer some help.

Response:

Question:

hello all, this is for serafina,doctor is worried about her becoming addicitive to her pain meds she was taking trazadone and he switch to paxil.it must hve been a sales person that visited the Dr. for one would like to here from a doctor that have gone thru  the pain we go thru.oh yeh!his buddies would give  him/her plenty of pain meds.its almost like they make you feel that there’s nothing wrong with you when you no good an well your sick.try a pain clinic and get your meds.and maybe some one on one care.good luck<go to your pcp

beverly – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Serafina wrote:

Say my rheumy yesterday. …   a thoroughly frustrating experience.  My internist is sure that I have Lupus   1:320, excruciating pain in the chest cavity, joints and muscles plus complete exhaustion. Yesterday the rheumy tells me that I have Fibromyalgia and told me to take Paxil and told me not to take Hydrocodone because it is addicitive. I am going a little nutty….more depressed than ever. Why should I switch from Trazadone to Paxil as he suggests and why should he completely discount Hydrocodone, MGN3, MSM and Flaxseed oil. I think I want to hit this guy. He took a blood test but says he is POSITIVE that I do NOT have Lupus. Now what?  any suggestions?        thanks,   Serafina

Response:

I am having lots of trouble with POSTING and REPLYING:   Seems, most everything gets put into the email "sent"  folder. Anyway, my Pain Management Specialist put me on Oxy and Hydrocodone for the pain and Trazadone for depression. My rheumy told me NOT to take Hydrocodone and changed the Trazadone to Paxil. I think you are right….MDs respond to sales persons. Before I go anyfurther, I would like to find out how I can {I have tried creating rules} have news messages posted from only the past 3 days.  I tried but I am still getting all messages posted from when I first signed on:  June 18. So, I have two questions herein……..need help on both……….Serafina "BEVERLY" <sw…@swbell.net

wrote in message

news:3B331F47.C189BD6E@swbell.net… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

hello all, this is for serafina,doctor is worried about her becoming addicitive to

her pain

meds she was taking trazadone and he switch to paxil.it must hve been a

sales

person that visited the Dr. for one would like to here from a doctor that

have

gone thru  the pain we go thru.oh yeh!his buddies would give  him/her

plenty of

pain meds.its almost like they make you feel that there’s nothing wrong

with you

when you no good an well your sick.try a pain clinic and get your meds.and

maybe

some one on one care.good luck<go to your pcp beverly Serafina wrote: Say my rheumy yesterday. …   a thoroughly frustrating experience.  My internist is sure that I have Lupus   1:320, excruciating pain in the

chest

cavity, joints and muscles plus complete exhaustion. Yesterday the rheumy tells me that I have Fibromyalgia and told me to

take

Paxil and told me not to take Hydrocodone because it is addicitive. I am going a little nutty….more depressed than ever. Why should I switch from Trazadone to Paxil as he suggests and why

should he

completely discount Hydrocodone, MGN3, MSM and Flaxseed oil. I think I want to hit this guy. He took a blood test but says he is POSITIVE that I do NOT have Lupus. Now what?  any suggestions?        thanks,   Serafina

Response:

{{{{{{{Seraphina}}}}}}}} My suggestion would be to see another doctor, this one’s not taking you seriously. love, catherine "Serafina" <nappt…@bigfoot.com

wrote in message

news:cZIX6.169731$I5.48627224@news1.rdc1.tn.home.com… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

Say my rheumy yesterday. …   a thoroughly frustrating experience.  My internist is sure that I have Lupus   1:320, excruciating pain in the

chest

cavity, joints and muscles plus complete exhaustion. Yesterday the rheumy tells me that I have Fibromyalgia and told me to take Paxil and told me not to take Hydrocodone because it is addicitive. I am going a little nutty….more depressed than ever. Why should I switch from Trazadone to Paxil as he suggests and why should

he

completely discount Hydrocodone, MGN3, MSM and Flaxseed oil. I think I want to hit this guy. He took a blood test but says he is POSITIVE that I do NOT have Lupus. Now what?  any suggestions?        thanks,   Serafina

Response:

What mail reader are you using? "Serafina" <nappt…@bigfoot.com

wrote in message

news:TaHY6.3567$F5.1183702@news1.rdc1.tn.home.com…

I am having lots of trouble with POSTING and REPLYING:   Seems, most everything gets put into the email "sent"  folder.

SNIP – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

Before I go anyfurther, I would like to find out how I can {I have tried creating rules} have news messages posted from only the past 3 days.  I tried but I am

still

getting all messages posted from when I first signed on:  June 18. So, I have two questions herein……..need help on both……….Serafina

Response:

Thank you…  that is exactly what I intend to do.  THere is a large Lupus clinic with 7 doctors In Asheville N.C.  All they do is work with Lupus Patients. Isn’t is sad that Lupus is so mistreated.  I am sure that if I had AIDS, the doctors would be jumping all over me to HELP.  But for Lupus,  too many doctors pass themselves off as Experts and Gods and most of them have not picked up a Lupus journal or book in over 10 years…. so, what else is new? …….       Serafina "canuckian" <canuckian…@spam.freeze.com

wrote in message

news:_vTX6.38053$TW.189786@tor-nn1.netcom.ca… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

{{{{{{{Seraphina}}}}}}}} My suggestion would be to see another doctor,

this > one’s not taking you seriously. > love, > catherine > "Serafina" <nappt…@bigfoot.com

wrote in message

> news:cZIX6.169731$I5.48627224@news1.rdc1.tn.home.com… > > Say my rheumy yesterday. …   a thoroughly frustrating experience.  My > > internist is sure that I have Lupus   1:320, excruciating pain in the > chest > > cavity, joints and muscles plus complete exhaustion. > > Yesterday the rheumy tells me that I have Fibromyalgia and told me to take

Paxil and told me not to take Hydrocodone because it is addicitive. I am going a little nutty….more depressed than ever. Why should I switch from Trazadone to Paxil as he suggests and why

should

he completely discount Hydrocodone, MGN3, MSM and Flaxseed oil. I think I want to hit this guy. He took a blood test but says he is POSITIVE that I do NOT have Lupus. Now what?  any suggestions?        thanks,   Serafina

Response:

The difference in opinions would definitely be frustrating.  You might try asking them upon what they base their opinions.  After that, you might think about a third opinion.   As for the pain medication, I guess I have a different point of view than your rheumy. I don’t believe there is anything wrong with taking a medication for its intended purpose.  Using a medication appropriately is not abuse.  I also don’t believe in suffering if there is a way to prevent or minimize it.  People who are in constant pain aren’t able to be productive and can end up with poor quality of life.  As to whether one can become an addict while taking a pain medication, I wouldn’t say it couldn’t ever happen.  I do think though that its a secondary concern when someone is suffering from significant pain.  I also don’t believe that addiction itself is a common result of using pain medication appropriately.  Dependence certainly, but not necessarily addiction.  Just my opinion. Anyway, regarding the Paxil versus the Trazadone, you might try consulting a psychiatrist about which would be better.  They’re the true experts when it comes to psychiatric medications.  You might also want to consider asking for a referral to a pain clinic. I’ve known a number of other people who went to pain clinics.  Some were very happy with it and other not.  I don’t know which would be the case for you, but it could be worth a try.   P.S.  My daughter’s first rheumatologist was absolutely certain that my daughter did not have lupus just two weeks before he himself diagnosed her with it (with absolute certainty) and even recommended aggressive treatment. Sandra

Response:

In article <cZIX6.169731$I5.48627…@news1.rdc1.tn.home.com

, Serafina

<nappt…@bigfoot.com

wrote Say my rheumy yesterday. …   a thoroughly frustrating experience.  My internist is sure that I have Lupus   1:320, excruciating pain in the chest cavity, joints and muscles plus complete exhaustion. Yesterday the rheumy tells me that I have Fibromyalgia and told me to take Paxil and told me not to take Hydrocodone because it is addicitive. I am going a little nutty….more depressed than ever. Why should I switch from Trazadone to Paxil as he suggests and why should he completely discount Hydrocodone, MGN3, MSM and Flaxseed oil. I think I want to hit this guy. He took a blood test but says he is POSITIVE that I do NOT have Lupus. Now what?  any suggestions?        thanks,   Serafina

Quote from a talk by a consultant at this year’s Lupus UK conference: *IS* it Lupus? Many of Lupus’s common symptoms overlap with Fibromyalgia (henceforth ‘FM’) also called Chronic Fatigue Syndrome – eg sleep that does not refresh you; vivid dreams; tired-all-day; leaden limbs. Up to 80% of Lupies show FM symptoms. Stress triggers both Lupus and FM. However the treatment is different – in particular, *steroids make FM worse*. For FM, new antidepressant drugs used at 1/20 – 1/10 of full dose can produce refreshing sleep, and also relieve pain that NSAIDs like Aspirin doesn’t. Also, NON-COMPETITIVE exercise is good, ie you don’t try to beat other people, and you don’t set yourself targets like ‘I’ll do 20 lengths today, 21 tomorrow and so on’. end quote Note his point that steroids make Fibromyalgia worse. That’s why your doctors need to get it right! — Andy For Austrian philately <URL: http://www.kitzbuhel.demon.co.uk/austamps/

For Lupus <URL: http://www.kitzbuhel.demon.co.uk/lupus/

For my other interests <URL: http://www.kitzbuhel.demon.co.uk/

Response:

hi serafina! so you went to another uncocerned rheumy.dont stop there even though its hard you’ll find one that will listen to you .i had to got to about five doctors before i found a rheumy and he gve me a referral to a pain mgmnt.and thry are just great!i hve sle,fibro ctd,copd and am a mental pt.so i hve many problems.i go to the pain mgnt center on this thursday.there going to inject steriods into my body.i hope its for the best.i’ll let you know.have you ever had brain fog i ask my mental health dr.and she said yes taking all the meds im taking.its possiable.so when i spell somethuing word please try and de code ok. beverly – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Serafina wrote:

Say my rheumy yesterday. …   a thoroughly frustrating experience.  My internist is sure that I have Lupus   1:320, excruciating pain in the chest cavity, joints and muscles plus complete exhaustion. Yesterday the rheumy tells me that I have Fibromyalgia and told me to take Paxil and told me not to take Hydrocodone because it is addicitive. I am going a little nutty….more depressed than ever. Why should I switch from Trazadone to Paxil as he suggests and why should he completely discount Hydrocodone, MGN3, MSM and Flaxseed oil. I think I want to hit this guy. He took a blood test but says he is POSITIVE that I do NOT have Lupus. Now what?  any suggestions?        thanks,   Serafina

Response:

Hello well well another doctor jumping the gun on what is wrong with someone. Gee is that news… I am so sorry that you have to go through a whole bunch of stuff before someone sees you as a person as well as a patient. this also happened to me, told fibro and then had xray and was told ruptured disc.  I think some docs find this as a good diagnosis for just about anything.  Although fibro is indeed a debilitating illness. The ANA is not an indicator of lupus, it can be negative, that does not mean that it is or isn;’t lupus.  There are many more test to determine this. Have you tried steroids given by the doctor, if they do help then it may not be fibro.  Fibro is worse when someone takes steroids. Sure the hydocodone is addictive, but if it helps you should ask him why in the world would he want you to be in pain if it does INDEED help you. I would ask him right out.  Do you think I am nuts here???? I have done that, boy they back right down on that.  I also think that if you are not satisfied with this doctor there are others around who will help you A second opinion is always welcome here. What kind of blood tests did he take, get the name,  also ask if he did a sed rate to see if indeed there is inflammation present in the body. Go to KCat, here I go again, and get a list of lab tests necessary. then ask him why in the world would he not want to really check it out. I hope you get some help here. Get another opinion… janers

Response:

Hi Serafina, I can only say that I can understand your frustration,and anger. Perhaps the blood work he ordered will prove him wrong. I think most of us have experienced the same thing. I have often said that the specialists almost have to be hit in the face before they can see it. Get another referral if you are not satisfied;but above all, don’t doubt yourself. I got the runaround for many years too. Then all hell broke loose for me physically,and bingo, a diagnosis. My daughter often asks if it makes me angry because I was not being heard all those years, particularly because the symptoms should have been so obvious. Some times I feel cheated,but I’m still here in spite of all the medical mistakes.You can be sure that I am thinking about you even though we have never met. BJ "Serafina" <nappt…@bigfoot.com

wrote in message

news:cZIX6.169731$I5.48627224@news1.rdc1.tn.home.com… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

Say my rheumy yesterday. …   a thoroughly frustrating experience.  My internist is sure that I have Lupus   1:320, excruciating pain in the

chest

cavity, joints and muscles plus complete exhaustion. Yesterday the rheumy tells me that I have Fibromyalgia and told me to take Paxil and told me not to take Hydrocodone because it is addicitive. I am going a little nutty….more depressed than ever. Why should I switch from Trazadone to Paxil as he suggests and why should

he

completely discount Hydrocodone, MGN3, MSM and Flaxseed oil. I think I want to hit this guy. He took a blood test but says he is POSITIVE that I do NOT have Lupus. Now what?  any suggestions?        thanks,   Serafina

Response:

Say my rheumy yesterday. …   a thoroughly frustrating experience.  My internist is sure that I have Lupus   1:320, excruciating pain in the chest cavity, joints and muscles plus complete exhaustion. Yesterday the rheumy tells me that I have Fibromyalgia and told me to take Paxil and told me not to take Hydrocodone because it is addicitive. I am going a little nutty….more depressed than ever. Why should I switch from Trazadone to Paxil as he suggests and why should he completely discount Hydrocodone, MGN3, MSM and Flaxseed oil. I think I want to hit this guy. He took a blood test but says he is POSITIVE that I do NOT have Lupus. Now what?  any suggestions?        thanks,   Serafina

Response:

This is  a commen problem alot of us have gone through unfortunatly. I went through 4 Rheumies before I found one that took it serious. It is so frustrating I would ask your internist is there another rheumy to see second opinion? Good Luck and hang in there Cindy

Response:

On Tue, 19 Jun 2001 14:03:52 GMT, "Serafina" <nappt…@bigfoot.com

wrote:

Say my rheumy yesterday. …   a thoroughly frustrating experience.  My internist is sure that I have Lupus   1:320, excruciating pain in the chest cavity, joints and muscles plus complete exhaustion.

your rheumy is seeing a somewhat low positive ANA and deciding that this is reason enough to say "no lupus".  My rheumy responded the same way *on that matter*.  However….

Yesterday the rheumy tells me that I have Fibromyalgia and told me to take Paxil and told me not to take Hydrocodone because it is addicitive.

okay – Paxil is a decent drug for many. Some people see improvement in pain syndromes (be they FMS or SLE Or whatever) with serotonin reuptake inhibitors (Paxil, Prozac, Zoloft, Effexor).  [note, I did not say "selective" SRIs – Effexor also works on other neurotransmitters).  Effexor relieved my joint pain for about 4 months or less.   This had me believing that it was "all in my head" – but when the pain returned with a vengeance despite continuing on the med, I came away from agreeing with the doctor.  But this doctor is probably assuming that Paxil will lessen your pain and therefore remove your need for trazadone or pain meds.  Trazadone is good for headache problems but not as good for other pain.  Great for sleep though.   you might check with some of the FM support groups to determine if they have had relief from Paxil more so than from Trazadone.

I am going a little nutty….more depressed than ever. Why should I switch from Trazadone to Paxil as he suggests and why should he completely discount Hydrocodone, MGN3, MSM and Flaxseed oil.

I don’t know much about MGN3 and MSM but the Flaxseed Oil is a known anti-inflammatory as well as having other health benefits. I recommend *against* discontinuing it.  ie. – he’s wrong on that one IMO.  As far as getting addicted – well, everyone here that knows me, knows my opinion on this.  Recently two conflicting papers were found in medical journals and depending on the doctor, some took the view I have (you’re in pain, why should you have to suffer, treating pain properly – before it becomes overwhelming – means having to use less pain meds and so on)  some took the other view (pain meds are dangerous, blah, blah, blah).  Gee, can you tell I’m opinionated on this one? for more of my rambling *opinion* you can read my site (new meds, new me) which has a discussion of my experience and what I’ve learned from others about pain meds.  I have taken Lortab (hydrocodone) for 3 years now – as needed.  Some times that meant every day for several weeks, sometimes that meant once a week for several months.  I’ve had one dose in the last three weeks.  so despite three years of access to the drug I have not become addicted or even dependent on it.  I am dependent on Ultram but not addicted – i forget to take it now and then and pay the price.  It is not "recommended" to combine Ultram with SRIs (or other antidepressants) nor with Hydrocodone – but frankly, I’ve had no problem the last three years in taking the occasional Hydrocodone while on a daily dose of Ultram.

I think I want to hit this guy.

be my guest, invite him to my place and we’ll rearrange his thinking…

He took a blood test but says he is POSITIVE that I do NOT have Lupus. Now what?  any suggestions?        thanks,   Serafina

go back to your internist.  Discuss this with him.  Discuss the issues of pain control (there are other methods that can be used in tandem with hydrocodone or in place of it).  I will try to find the articles re: pain control that were posted here some time ago.  My MIL’s doctor agrees with me that chronic sleep and pain problems are undertreated. The thing is, if you’re going to self-medicate (ie., take drugs you don’t need physically because you want them psychologically) you’re going to do it whether it’s hydrocodone or alcohol or chocolate or… get my drift?  Your internist will know your history as far as how you’ve treated your pain meds and since this doctor (rheumy) seems to care little for the discomfort of his patients, then perhaps a pain specialist is in order.  my doc (rheumy) watches my refill pattern and so does the pharmacy – so if I were to start taking the drugs improperly she would know immediately and I’d lose the privelege I have of being allowed to control my own pain. I have found that yoga and other forms of meditation have helped me considerably on joint pain and even the migraines – not a cure by any means, but a good coping mechanism. one last thing to consider – I think rheumies are seeing a *lot* of women with lupus-like symptoms right now as people are becoming more and more aware of the disease via the ‘net mostly.  So I think for some of the there is a sort of backlash – they’ve been taught this is a "rare" disease and are not willing to come away from that outdated thinking.  In addition, some rheumies will refuse to diagnose without major organ involvement because of insurance reasons.  I have learned to live without a firm diagnosis mostly because a) my rhuemy does not discount my pain  b) my rheumy provides plaquenil to help keep flares under control – thereby stating that some sort of autoimmune process is going on and c) I realize that as long as I don’t have that firm diagnosis it means I am not "that" sick.  Hurt like hell sometimes, feel like giving up sometimes, but most of the time aware that these are "mild" symptoms (nothing to do with the level of pain but just the level of risk to my life) and that I can deal with those one way or another.  It is my family doctor that doesn’t like the meds I’m on – but she defers to my rhueumy on this one.  I dont’ know if this is your first rhuematologist visit but if it is, you might consider talking to other lupus patients (and FM and so on) in a local support group to get their feelings on their doctors. kcat the verbose. good luck *********************************** KCat – I am not a medical professional.  The contents of this post are based soley on my experiences and opinions http://www.ghg.net/schwerpt/mypage.htm http://www.ghg.net/schwerpt/aslfaq20.htm   ("`-”-/").___..–”"`-._   (`6_ 6  )   `-.  (     ).`-.__.’`)    (_Y_.)’  ._   )  `._ `. “-..-”   _..`–’_..-_/  /–’_.’ ,’ (()),-”  (()),’    (((.-’

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Question:

I’ve taken Valerian and Kava Kava (not together of course) but I am currently on Zoloft for anxiety and panic attacks. I was wondering if there is another herbal treatment. I go to acupuncture but it is not covered by insurance and is very costly. thank you for your time. Faith

Response:

Faith, I am not a doctor, so please consider that carefully when you read my response. I did, however, attend several presentations on how stressors affect the overall body and, specifically, the immune system. I also got quite an education when I was having vasovagal episodes with increasing frequency. There are many things contributing to a stress load that manifests in anxiety and panic attacks. There are three basic types of stressors – physical (injury, illness, fatigue, etc.), chemical (food, drugs, alcohol, blood sugar levels, etc.), and emotional. Each body can handle a maximum combined stress load before it starts showing ‘overstressed’ symptoms. Each type of stress contributes to the total stress load. If two are fine and one is off the charts, symptoms flare. For this reason, it is necessary to keep each of the types of stress as much to a minimum as reasonably possible to lessen the effect of the situation that drives that stress load over the top. When I was having severe anxiety attacks (vasovagal near syncope), I wasn’t ‘cured’ by just taking anti-anxiety medicine. I had to modify my eating, exercise, and sleeping habits AND I had to be removed from the environment that was the major contributor to  the stress. I also had to learn (try to learn) different healthy methods to deal with my stress. Meditation helped a lot. The first anti-anxiety medicine I was given was not helpful, so a second was added to it. The combination was too much, so I eventually wound up using the second medicine with an additional RX for Xanax on as as-needed basis. If I felt an attack coming on, I took a Xanax. In the beginning I was taking the Xanax 3xdaily, but over time it lessened to where I rarely take it at all. But I still carry it in my purse as a backup. I have learned what kinds of situations trigger my anxiety and, as much as reasonably possible, I avoid those situations entirely or at least when I know I am vulnerable to a stress overload (i.e., overtired, hungry, annoyed already). I know your are looking for herbal treatments. Others may have good suggestions for that. If they do, please check with your Dr. or pharmacist for medication interactions and precautions. What I am hoping to supply here is natural as well. Lifestyle changes made the biggest difference for me. If I hadn’t made the changes, no amount of drugs could have gotten me through the experience. Best of luck to you, ccc – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve taken Valerian and Kava Kava (not together of course) but I am currently on Zoloft for anxiety and panic attacks. I was wondering if there is another herbal treatment. I go to acupuncture but it is not covered by insurance and is very costly. thank you for your time. Faith

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| 2.  St. John’s Wort – Mild Depression (NOT anxiety) I took it on a regular basis for months, in various available forms. No effect whatsoever. What works against bouts of nervous depression is kava-kava. It is the only herbal psychotropic stuff I have ever tried whose effects can be undeniably FELT. Whether it has healing, rather than only symtomatic properties, and whether is really does induce no tolerance is open to doubt. I take it on and off, not as a treatment. Against sustained depression DHEA definitely worked with me. It may not qualify as a "natural" remedy, however, and its harmlessness is disputed. James

Response:

2.  St. John’s Wort – Mild Depression (NOT anxiety)

Uh… =ahem!=   It most certainly IS listed for treatment for anxiety, as well as depression.  I ain’t gonna spoon-feed you the URL’s. Got to a good search engine or web crawler ( I like Altavista, Hotbot, Google and AskJeeves) and look it up.   Besides,  anxiety is often a symptom of depression!   As Gomer Pyle would say: "Well,  surprise, surpriiiiise!" That man-made crap,  like Zoloft and Paxil,  is for the birds! —   -john "Always listen to experts. They’ll tell you what can’t be done and why. Then do it."    - Robert Heinlein

Response:

I’ve taken Valerian and Kava Kava (not together of course) but I am currently on Zoloft for anxiety and panic attacks.

I would be careful with Zoloft

Question:

How long have you been taking the Zoloft?  And are you taking anything else (such as Xanax)?  I had some of that early on, but I truly believe that it is the interim feeling you get when the Zoloft is fighting anxiety.  In other words, instead of feeling anxious, you feel cloudy. At least that is my experience, because the longer I’ve been on Zoloft and the less often I have felt anxious, the less I have had this problem.  Also, occasionally, when I’ve taken a Xanax for an extra bad day, I feel this way when I come off of it.  Interesting. Best, Charly

I’ve been taking Zoloft for 6 months, and I don’t take anything else…I hardly have any anxiety any more, but this spaciness is freaking me out… Thanks Mandy

Response:

I’ve been on Zoloft for almost six months now, and these feelings started around the same time…..it’s so weird!

Yes, it is. What does your doctor say? Maybe you could try either adding a benzo or switching to another SSRI? Philip (don’t know really) – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – MandySince when have you been taking Zoloft? As a rule dissociation is not a SSRI side effect but nothing is impossible. I have found a benzo helps me with dissociative feelings and perceptions. YMMV. Philip

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Hummingbird says

I posted a while ago about my feelings of unreality….I was wondering if maybe it is partly caused by the Zoloft….I feel like I’m just playing the part or something…It really scares me sometimes that I can’t FEEL some things….I take 200 mg/day…Does anybody know if Zoloft can cause these feelings?  I don’t understand why I feel this way.  It’s almost a constant thing now….I want to feel alive, but I just feel like nothing is real…Like I’m playing a part in some generic B movie or something….HELP! Mandy

hi mandy. I thought that was just of the effects of the anxiety/panic….jeeeezzzz! I don’t take Zoloft (but I like the big Z) – - though I know the "unreality" feeling. Hope your meds don’t cause that! Maybe some adjusting is needed by the doc….hmmm? -take care & good luck!! Z p.s. I usually feel like I’m some bizarre character in a Terry Gilliam movie if ya know what I mean.

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I’ve been on Zoloft for almost six months now, and these feelings started around the same time…..it’s so weird! MandySince when have you been taking Zoloft? As a rule dissociation is not a SSRI – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -side effect but nothing is impossible. I have found a benzo helps me with dissociative feelings and perceptions. YMMV. Philip

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no-archive:yes I posted a while ago about my feelings of unreality….I was wondering if maybe it is partly caused by the Zoloft….I feel like I’m just playing the part or something…It really scares me sometimes that I can’t FEEL some things….I take 200 mg/day…Does anybody know if Zoloft can cause these feelings?  I don’t understand why I feel this way.  It’s almost a constant thing now….I want to feel alive, but I just feel like nothing is real…Like I’m playing a part in some generic B movie or something….HELP! Mandy

How long have you been taking the Zoloft?  And are you taking anything else (such as Xanax)?  I had some of that early on, but I truly believe that it is the interim feeling you get when the Zoloft is fighting anxiety.  In other words, instead of feeling anxious, you feel cloudy. At least that is my experience, because the longer I’ve been on Zoloft and the less often I have felt anxious, the less I have had this problem.  Also, occasionally, when I’ve taken a Xanax for an extra bad day, I feel this way when I come off of it.  Interesting. Best, Charly

Response:

I posted a while ago about my feelings of unreality….I was wondering if maybe it is partly caused by the Zoloft….I feel like I’m just playing the part or something…It really scares me sometimes that I can’t FEEL some things….I take 200 mg/day…Does anybody know if Zoloft can cause these feelings?  I don’t understand why I feel this way.  It’s almost a constant thing now….I want to feel alive, but I just feel like nothing is real…Like I’m playing a part in some generic B movie or something….HELP!

Dear Mandy, Has this symptom only been around since being on zoloft? Your comment *I can`t feel some things*, sounds like you are numb or apathetic. This seems to happen to some people while they are on anti-depressants. I urge you to talk to your doctor about this, perhaps a med change is in order. Take care. Jackie

Response:

I posted a while ago about my feelings of unreality….I was wondering if maybe it is partly caused by the Zoloft….I feel like I’m just playing the part or something…It really scares me sometimes that I can’t FEEL some things….I take 200 mg/day…Does anybody know if Zoloft can cause these feelings?  I don’t understand why I feel this way.  It’s almost a constant thing now….I want to feel alive, but I just feel like nothing is real…Like I’m playing a part in some generic B movie or something….HELP! Mandy

Zoloft can cause feelings of unreality (called depersonalization/derealization), *especially* if your dose has been titrated upwards too rapidly. I’d check with your doc. You may need a  reduction in you Zoloft dose. Also benzos have been quite effective in relieving feelings of unreality I have had. Even in small dosage, such as Xanax 0.25 mg four times per day. Chip Before you buy.

Response:

.It really scares me sometimes that I can’t FEEL some things….

this is different qualitatively then dissociation where you feel outside yourself-one is a ramping down of emotion the other a ramping up-when we dissociate we are purposly excluding ourselves from the present moment to reduce sensory input as a defense an exhaustion-the inability to feel emotions as acutely or as intensly is and can be a side effect of any ad med as they can tend to in some reduce appropriate anxieties as well as reduce specific spontaneous emotional responses-they get slowed down which is how these drugs work to reduce some emotional disturbances-so you may have to clarify what it is you actualy are experiencing LM

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I posted a while ago about my feelings of unreality….I was wondering if maybe it is partly caused by the Zoloft….I feel like I’m just playing the part or something…It really scares me sometimes that I can’t FEEL some things….I take 200 mg/day…Does anybody know if Zoloft can cause these feelings?  I don’t understand why I feel this way.  It’s almost a constant thing now….I want to feel alive, but I just feel like nothing is real…Like I’m playing a part in some generic B movie or something….HELP! Mandy

Since when have you been taking Zoloft? As a rule dissociation is not a SSRI side effect but nothing is impossible. I have found a benzo helps me with dissociative feelings and perceptions. YMMV. Philip

Response:

I find most meditations make me feel that way. I have come to know it is all part of my symptoms of my anxiety disorder. I like to do journalling and meditation to get in touch with my feelings. It definately is unpleasant…I go in and out of unreality feelings and spaceyness quite frequently, especially when I go for walks. I feel like I’m not real and the world around me seems distant. Typical of someone from a traumatic background. Disassociation….I love those moments of clarity much better. I do not suffer as bad as I did, so I keep the hope. (((((HUGS))))) Debbie

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I posted a while ago about my feelings of unreality….I was wondering if maybe it is partly caused by the Zoloft….I feel like I’m just playing the part or something…It really scares me sometimes that I can’t FEEL some things….I take 200 mg/day…Does anybody know if Zoloft can cause these feelings?  I don’t understand why I feel this way.  It’s almost a constant thing now….I want to feel alive, but I just feel like nothing is real…Like I’m playing a part in some generic B movie or something….HELP! Mandy

Response:

I posted a while ago about my feelings of unreality….I was wondering if maybe it is partly caused by the Zoloft….I feel like I’m just playing the part or something…It really scares me sometimes that I can’t FEEL some things….I take 200 mg/day…Does anybody know if Zoloft can cause these feelings?  I don’t understand why I feel this way.  It’s almost a constant thing now….I want to feel alive, but I just feel like nothing is real…Like I’m playing a part in some generic B movie or something….HELP! Mandy

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Question:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – argggggggggggggggggggggg its so annoying Before you buy.

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Phone the hospital!!!! – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – argggggggggggggggggggggg its so annoying Before you buy.

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argggggggggggggggggggggg its so annoying

Having been without your Zoloft for several days (why? It’s not advisable…) your body needs to become accustomed to it again. It is certainly not dangerous at all and will be temporary, may take a few days… Philip – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Before you buy.

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argggggggggggggggggggggg its so annoying

Frenchi, how many tablets did you take at the same time?  Call your doctor! Dot Before you buy.

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argggggggggggggggggggggg its so annoying Before you buy.

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Do yourself two favors, never take a friend’s medication and call your doc now! — TC3 Always take an emergency leisurely. Chinese Proverb – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – argggggggggggggggggggggg its so annoying Before you buy.

Response:

What do you mean – you took them together? Do you mean that you usually split your dosage up but instead took the full dosage? I don’t think and I hope that you did not mean that you took the Zoloft that you didn’t take for the few days. Well I am not an expert on this but I do take Zoloft and have been for about five years. I was told by my doctor that I could separate my dosage or take it all at once it was entirely up to me. I know that side effects for Zoloft have been documented up to 200mg and with that dosage you will experience more side effects. What you are describing is common side effects for people on that dosage. I am assuming that if you have not taken your Zoloft for a few days that your blood levels are very low and that is why you are experiencing side effects now. My Zoloft was just upped from 100 to 150mg and I experienced the same side effects you are describing for about a week. You should direct your question to Margrove as I am sure he will be able to give you a more accurate and reliable answer. Take care Zedexa – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – argggggggggggggggggggggg its so annoying Before you buy.

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Question:

: Hi, I am new here and I am grateful that there are newsgroups available : to share these panic and anxiety experiences.   : I have been diagnosed with having a severe depression episode and also : am having panic and anxiety attacks.  Primarily while I am driving : to work.  My doctor gave me some medication called effexor to try and : it made me sick to my stomach and really spaced out.  Needless to say : I only took those once. When I went back and told him that they were awful : he gave me some zoloft.  I took one of those and I got a dry mouth, : and felt ’speedy’ and not really like myself. I also felt sick to : my stomach and frankly I didn’t like it at all.  Is this the way : antidepressants are?  Do you always have to feel like a glassy eyed : sick zombie?  I guess I am just wondering if this is normal? The : thought of taking medication in the first place is troubling to me, : let alone having myself turn in to some space cadet. Hi Kelly, I’m currently taking Luvox and desipramine for panic disorder and depression. I too was reluctant to take meds at first but now I’m so relieved to be on them. The Luvox made me very sleepy and nauseated, but that subsided within a couple of weeks. With desipramine I was definitely "spacey" (prob. due to lowered blood pressure) but that went away pretty quickly as well. Most side effects go away within a couple of weeks. I like to think of them as signs that the drugs are working–i.e. they’re starting to change my body chemistry. I’m probably completely off base but it works for me. Please try to ride out the side effects if you can–I have some ideas on how to make them better. You’ll feel a lot better, and knowing the SEs are temporary will give you incentive to stick with them. Going on and off meds is going to do you more harm than good, IMHO. Feel free to email anytime. Doris —                         Doris Ostendorf "Show me a sane man and I will cure him for you."                                                   C.G. Jung

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You might want to look in Imipramine. It is pretty mild and works very good. You will notice dry mouth but hey that is why we have water. Thomas

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, I am new here and I am grateful that there are newsgroups available to share these panic and anxiety experiences.   I have been diagnosed with having a severe depression episode and also am having panic and anxiety attacks.  Primarily while I am driving to work.  My doctor gave me some medication called effexor to try and it made me sick to my stomach and really spaced out.  Needless to say I only took those once. When I went back and told him that they were awful he gave me some zoloft.  I took one of those and I got a dry mouth, and felt ’speedy’ and not really like myself. I also felt sick to my stomach and frankly I didn’t like it at all.  Is this the way antidepressants are?  Do you always have to feel like a glassy eyed sick zombie?  I guess I am just wondering if this is normal? The thought of taking medication in the first place is troubling to me, let alone having myself turn in to some space cadet. The good thing was I was definitely not depressed anymore.  I was too sick and stoned to feel anything!!!  thanks for listening — kel

Antidepressants work differently for different people. Unfortunately, doctors sometimes have to try different drugs on some people to find the right one. I was diagnosed as being severly depressed and an accompanying anxiety disorder to boot. I was given Prozac first which made me feel MUCH worse (I literally "crashed" and had horrible anxiety problems as well). After being admitted to the hospital, I was given Luvox (a close cousin of Prozac and was almost brand new on the market at the time) which seemed to do the trick after a few weeks. Mind you I was a virtual zombie since I was on way too high a dose! Doctors don’t seem to pay too much attention to psychiatric patients in the hospital. I was mostly just very, very tired from the Luvox and a bit of a dry mouth. The dry mouth went away pretty quickly but since I was on other meds as well, it may or may not have been the Luvox. My guess is that it was. After my hospital stay, another psychitrist (who actually listened!) saw that I was zombified by the dose and cut it down from 150mg to 100mg. It’s been just over a year and I’m now down to 50mg (so far so good!) and I take an Ativan (.5mg) once in a while when I need it. So it may just be a case of finding the right drug for you. It’s bizarre how greatly the side effects are from drug to drug even though they are all very similar (Prozac, Luvox, Zoloft, Effexor). The dose your doctor gave you might be a bit too high – but i guess you have to be on them for a while for them to consider that. I don’t know if this helps you at all other than the fact that many of us here have gone through/going through the same thing! Take heart – you’ll get better! And the crap wears off – really! Thomas

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My doctor gave me some medication called effexor to try and it made me sick to my stomach and really spaced out.  Needless to say I only took those once….

Many side effects can be reduced by s*l*o*w*l*y increasing dosages to the desired level.  Discuss this with your doctor. I guess I am just wondering if this is normal?

Many people have trouble (real or imagined) with "normal" drug dosing. Mike Creswick Practical Software Solutions Member Association of Online Professionals Member HTML Writers’ Guild

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l.  Is this the way   antidepressants are?  Do you always have to feel like a glassy eyed sick zombie?  I guess I am just wondering if this is normal?  

Hi Kelly, Usually, one starts with a very low (subtherapeutic) dose of these meds in order to minimize the side effects, and gradually increase it as your body gets more comfortable with the medicine.  Yes…it is kind of rough in the beginning, but usually these side effects go away after a week or two, and the dosage can be gently increased to a therapeutic level. I had the same problem with Zoloft, and after a few weeks I felt fine and am able to things I haven’t done in 8 years. Good luck! Andy

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Hi, I am new here and I am grateful that there are newsgroups available to share these panic and anxiety experiences.   I have been diagnosed with having a severe depression episode and also am having panic and anxiety attacks.  Primarily while I am driving to work.  My doctor gave me some medication called effexor to try and it made me sick to my stomach and really spaced out.  Needless to say I only took those once. When I went back and told him that they were awful he gave me some zoloft.  I took one of those and I got a dry mouth, and felt ’speedy’ and not really like myself. I also felt sick to my stomach and frankly I didn’t like it at all.  Is this the way antidepressants are?  Do you always have to feel like a glassy eyed sick zombie?  I guess I am just wondering if this is normal? The thought of taking medication in the first place is troubling to me, let alone having myself turn in to some space cadet. The good thing was I was definitely not depressed anymore.  I was too sick and stoned to feel anything!!!   thanks for listening — kel

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I have been diagnosed with having a severe depression episode and also am having panic and anxiety attacks.  Primarily while I am driving to work.  My doctor gave me some medication called effexor to try and it made me sick to my stomach and really spaced out.  Needless to say I only took those once. When I went back and told him that they were awful he gave me some zoloft.

Hmm, sounds to me like your doctor didnt explain things fully too you. Anti-depresssents are renown for making you feel really grotty for the first few days however the key is to bear with them and things should sort themselves out in a week or so. The amount of grottyness you experience depends on the family of anti-depressants your particular one belongs too. I am taking  Seroxat 20mg ( Peroxatine) which I admit I have never heard mentioned here. My current specialist is one of the most senior psycotherapists in London (he’s on the NHS too, for all you UK chaps out there.. a miricle!!) and he was telling me that this is now the leading drug used to combat anxiety and panic disorders.Apparently for all the hype Prozac is in fact as he put it " a pretty crude" drug and though good at treating depression is not so good at treating anxiety and panic disorder. Anyway he fully explained the side effects and though a bit like having  hangover because I expected them I coped ok and now I take them without any problems. Thankfully they seem to be having the desired effect. What was more imprsssive and actually helped me have faith in my therapist and the drugs was the fact that when I returned to see him after a couple of weeks he suggested how I should have felt day by day and indeed myu own personal notes mirrored this. It’s  3 months on now and I have to admit I’m in much better shape and closer to my old self after 2 years of hell. Try to stick with the drugs if you can. About a year after my first panic attack my own local doctor gave me Seroxat to take while I waited for my fisrt appointment with a behavioural therapist. Unfortuantely he didnt describe the side effects properly and of course  I became even more panicy when they started and stopped taking them. I wish I’d stayed with them …perhaps I could have saved myself another 12 months of grief. Good luck….things do get better…eventually..just keep on fighting Paul

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I just started taking zoloft for my panic attacks, I have been on xanax for three months, I was just wondering if anyone has experienced the feeling of not really feeling like your in your right mind, almost like your peering through a glass at the rest of the world when you first started taking anti-depressant medications and does it get better with time? It almost feels like I’m in my mind but I’m really not,, Oh well sorry to take up your time on a stupid question, it just kinda worries me, any help or support would be greatly appreciated….. Thanks Paul Florida

Yes, I have experienced that.  Many of us call it the "Zombie" brain feeling. Clouded thinking is a beginning side-effect that many Zoloft users experience. It does go away for some.  You just have to stay on it for awhile to see if the sun gets brighter or dimmer.  If you don’t feel better, like say after 8 weeks on a therapeutic dose, talk to your doctor.  Matter of fact, it’s always a good plan to call your doctor or pharmacist for any side-effects. Mel

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Not a stupid question at all.  I get that brain-fogged feeling from a lot of medications; indeed, it it also a symptom of anxiety in the first place.  If you only get it as a medication side effect, I would give it a couple of weeks to see if it goes away, as many side effects disappear or become more tolerable as one adjusts to the medication.  If on the other hand it is unbearable, perhaps you should try something different.  

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I just started taking zoloft for my panic attacks, I have been on xanax for three months, I was just wondering if anyone has experienced the feeling of not really feeling like your in your right mind, almost like your peering through a glass at the rest of the world when you first started taking anti-depressant medications and does it get better with time? It almost feels like I’m in my mind but I’m really not,, Oh well sorry to take up your time on a stupid question, it just kinda worries me, any help or support would be greatly appreciated…..

Hi Paul, Do you feel like things around you are unreal, or that you are in a dream? It sounds to me like you *might* be having some derealization/depersonalization, which is frightening, but not dangerous. Derealization/depersonalization is the feeling that one is living in a dream, feeling that nothing is real, feeling detached from oneself. It is another symptom of anxiety and I have heard people that start anti-depressants complain of this also. I had this symptom toward the end of my last setback and it is quite frightening. Since being on Paxil I don`t have this symptom except when having a migraine. How much Zoloft are you taking and how many days have you been on Zoloft? This feeling is probably a side-effect of the Zoloft and more than likely will diminish over the next few weeks as your body gets accustomed to the Zoloft. Have you noticed if the Xanax helps this symptom? If you are concerned about this, don`t hesitate to call your doctor. I know that you are worried, but I can assure you that it is not dangerous, just very uncomfortable. It will get better. Take care. Jackie

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I just started taking zoloft for my panic attacks, I have been on xanax for three months, I was just wondering if anyone has experienced the feeling of not really feeling like your in your right mind, almost like your peering through a glass at the rest of the world when you first started taking anti-depressant medications and does it get better with time? It almost feels like I’m in my mind but I’m really not,, Oh well sorry to take up your time on a stupid question, it just kinda worries me, any help or support would be greatly appreciated….. Thanks Paul Florida

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Question:

From the Epilepsy Foundation of America as printed in their pamphlet, Epilepsy Questions and answers about seizure disorders. Question:  Does biofeedback treatment work for epilepsy? This is still being studied. Some researchers have reported decreased seizure frequency by having their patients learn how to produce certain brain waves that seem to prevent seizures; others have said that the ability of people to control their seizures in this way fades once the training on a biofeedback machine stops. * * * More d

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I have a few questions about Prozac.  My doc is considering switching me from Paxil to Prozac because the Paxil doesn’t seem to be working that well (I’m still panicking, nervous, and now depressed).  But I’m not sure I want to take Prozac.  I’ve heard some bad things about it like it’s harder to stop taking than other SSRI’s.  That if you take it, you basically can never come off of it.  He gave me some information to read about Prozac, but of course it’s published by the makers of Prozac. A biased source if I ever heard one. I guess what I’m asking for is your experiences with Prozac…good ones and bad ones.  Paxil is the first SSRI I’ve been on and I know it’s rare that the first one works right, but I’m scared of the Prozac.  Any help or advice you can lend would be appreciated! Cathi

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have a few questions about Prozac.  My doc is considering switching me from Paxil to Prozac because the Paxil doesn’t seem to be working that well (I’m still panicking, nervous, and now depressed).  But I’m not sure I want to take Prozac.  I’ve heard some bad things about it like it’s harder to stop taking than other SSRI’s.  That if you take it, you basically can never come off of it.  He gave me some information to read about Prozac, but of course it’s published by the makers of Prozac. A biased source if I ever heard one. I guess what I’m asking for is your experiences with Prozac…good ones and bad ones.  Paxil is the first SSRI I’ve been on and I know it’s rare that the first one works right, but I’m scared of the Prozac.  Any help or advice you can lend would be appreciated! Cathi

Hi Cathi, I’ve never taken prozac before, but I can tell you if you make the switch, you shouldn’t have any problems switching immediately to prozac from the paxil.  It might help you to avoid any "withdrawl" effects.  I switched one day from paxil to celexa and never had the withdrawl from paxil that people have talked about. Bye, Maria

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This is just a personal opinion, I think anti-depressents are useless for panic attacks, my daughter took Seroxat ( paxil) for six weeks and it made not a jot of difference. The only med that really works for panic/anxiety are benzodiazaphines. In my own experience, Xanax is excellent and valium has a great value also. for my constant insomnia, i use Zopiclone which is an hypnotic and works like a benzo. Regards, Ian – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have a few questions about Prozac.  My doc is considering switching me from Paxil to Prozac because the Paxil doesn’t seem to be working that well (I’m still panicking, nervous, and now depressed).  But I’m not sure I want to take Prozac.  I’ve heard some bad things about it like it’s harder to stop taking than other SSRI’s.  That if you take it, you basically can never come off of it.  He gave me some information to read about Prozac, but of course it’s published by the makers of Prozac. A biased source if I ever heard one. I guess what I’m asking for is your experiences with Prozac…good ones and bad ones.  Paxil is the first SSRI I’ve been on and I know it’s rare that the first one works right, but I’m scared of the Prozac.  Any help or advice you can lend would be appreciated! Cathi

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Hey Cathi: I am taking Prozac, for anxiety, and depression. I have been taking it for 3 weeks now, and I seem to be doing pretty well. I also take buspar. I have not heard that it is hard to come off of, or that I will never be able to not take it. I have tried Zoloft, but I couldn’t take it long enough to see if it works. How long did you take the Paxil? Are you taking anything else? You might want to see if your Dr. will give you buspar for the anxiety, or Xanax. Write me if you have anymore questions. Chawk – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have a few questions about Prozac.  My doc is considering switching me from Paxil to Prozac because the Paxil doesn’t seem to be working that well (I’m still panicking, nervous, and now depressed).  But I’m not sure I want to take Prozac.  I’ve heard some bad things about it like it’s harder to stop taking than other SSRI’s.  That if you take it, you basically can never come off of it.  He gave me some information to read about Prozac, but of course it’s published by the makers of Prozac. A biased source if I ever heard one. I guess what I’m asking for is your experiences with Prozac…good ones and bad ones.  Paxil is the first SSRI I’ve been on and I know it’s rare that the first one works right, but I’m scared of the Prozac.  Any help or advice you can lend would be appreciated! Cathi

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hi cathi…i am on 20 mg of prozac a day with 1 mg of klonopin in the am and 1mg of k in the pm…i have tried paxil (bad side effects for me) buspar didn’t do a thing either…i also tried imipramine and that was not for me as well…i have been on the prozac for 4 weeks now and am doing well…don’t be afraid everyone is so different….i heard horror stories about prozac too,but i need help and i needed to find out for myself and i think that is what u should do too…good luck….colleen…..remember everyone is different

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Hi Cathi, My doc switched me after the weaning on period from Paxil 30 to Zoloft 50mg and then later to Zoloft 100mg (we may be going higher a I am in the therapeutic dose range. The switch was easy. As Maria said, the side effects must have been done away with when I started the Paxil and felt tired for awhile. Paxil works very well IMO for anxiety and OCD, but I needed a bit more of a kick in the behind, so we’re doing Zoloft now. I have had 0 side effects and all this (the above has been done in 6 weeks). Paxil did not give me the motivation I’ve been lacking for quite some time but the doc feels the Zoloft might. When he said it would "give you a lift in your spirits" I thought "Oh God, I’m gonna become a Prozac user that went berserk" like I had heard in the media but that is far from the case. I’m happy.. My focus is on one thing now, my brain does not feel so scattered and the ruminating has left. goodbye to that!! I hope what you’re trying works for you. Miriam

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my understanding is that prozac has a longer half life and therefore is easier to wean off than paxil

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I have a few questions about Prozac.  My doc is considering switching me from Paxil to Prozac because the Paxil doesn’t seem to be working that well (I’m still panicking, nervous, and now depressed).  But I’m not sure I want to take Prozac.  I’ve heard some bad things about it like it’s harder to stop taking than other SSRI’s.  That if you take it, you basically can never come off of it.  He gave me some information to read about Prozac, but of course it’s published by the makers of Prozac. A biased source if I ever heard one.

Actually it’s the other way around. Paxil is associated with a withdrawal problem (not with everybody) while Prozac is actually used to avoid Paxil withdrawal by gradually substituting Prozac for Paxil until Prozac has taken over which then can stopped within days. It’s *impossible* to tell how Prozac will affect you as our reactions are so personal. As a rule Paxil is more sedating and Prozac is more stimulating. Paxil is many times more potent than Prozac but Prozac has shown effective for many PD-ers, even at very low doses (like 10 mgs). I personally had great experiences with Prozac. After the initial period with all the side effects etc.etc. (which you won’t have because you will be switching SSRI’s and not just strating one) I had three blissful weeks of *no anxiety at all*. This may have been a placebo effect as PA’s came back but I still could live almost normally on a Prozac/Tranxene combo. After a few months I started to get irritable and had problems keeping my anger from other participants in serious meetings <g. I thought this wasn’t me and so I stopped Prozac. But this is eccentric as Prozac is actually sometimes used for anger management! I guess what I’m asking for is your experiences with Prozac…good ones and bad ones.  Paxil is the first SSRI I’ve been on and I know it’s rare that the first one works right, but I’m scared of the Prozac.  Any help or advice you can lend would be appreciated!

There is *no* reason to be more scared of Prozac than of Paxil. In fact, the success stories about Paxil notwithstanding, I wouldn’t touch the stuff. YMMV as they say. Cathi

Philip

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This is just a personal opinion, I think anti-depressents are useless for panic attacks, my daughter took Seroxat ( paxil) for six weeks and it made not a jot of difference. The only med that really works for panic/anxiety are benzodiazaphines. In my own experience, Xanax is excellent and valium has a great value also. for my constant insomnia, i use Zopiclone which is an hypnotic and works like a benzo. Regards, Ian

Your personal opinion is not sustained by the facts. While benzos are first choice meds for PAD, so are AD’s. I use both in a combo. It may have to do with the question which neurotransmitters are dominant in your PD, serotonin (and/or norepinephrine) or GABA. If the former, an AD should do the job, if the latter a benzo would be preferable. I know I’m simplifying: many neurotransmitters are active in the human body and when you interfere with one, you’re interfering with the whole system. So it’s, roughly speaking, a matter of trial and error which med (or which combo) at which dose works best. It is to be expected that research in the near future will lead to a more refined diagnosis and consequently to the development of more effective meds. Philip – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have a few questions about Prozac.  My doc is considering switching me from Paxil to Prozac because the Paxil doesn’t seem to be working that well (I’m still panicking, nervous, and now depressed).  But I’m not sure I want to take Prozac.  I’ve heard some bad things about it like it’s harder to stop taking than other SSRI’s.  That if you take it, you basically can never come off of it.  He gave me some information to read about Prozac, but of course it’s published by the makers of Prozac. A biased source if I ever heard one. I guess what I’m asking for is your experiences with Prozac…good ones and bad ones.  Paxil is the first SSRI I’ve been on and I know it’s rare that the first one works right, but I’m scared of the Prozac.  Any help or advice you can lend would be appreciated! Cathi

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Hi, Cathi, I took Prozac for four years. I just switched from Prozac to Effexor XR. No problem switching over. I just worried about making the switch & I could have saved myself the worry.  Best Wishes   Linda

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have a few questions about Prozac.  My doc is considering switching me from Paxil to Prozac because the Paxil doesn’t seem to be working that well (I’m still panicking, nervous, and now depressed).  But I’m not sure I want to take Prozac.  I’ve heard some bad things about it like it’s harder to stop taking than other SSRI’s.  That if you take it, you basically can never come off of it.  He gave me some information to read about Prozac, but of course it’s published by the makers of Prozac. A biased source if I ever heard one. I guess what I’m asking for is your experiences with Prozac…good ones and bad ones.  Paxil is the first SSRI I’ve been on and I know it’s rare that the first one works right, but I’m scared of the Prozac.  Any help or advice you can lend would be appreciated! Cathi

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    I agree Philip! Prozac helped me immensely with panic and anxiety. Now I’m on Effexor and it too helps!    Linda  :))

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – This is just a personal opinion, I think anti-depressents are useless for panic attacks, my daughter took Seroxat ( paxil) for six weeks and it made not a jot of difference. The only med that really works for panic/anxiety are benzodiazaphines. In my own experience, Xanax is excellent and valium has a great value also. for my constant insomnia, i use Zopiclone which is an hypnotic and works like a benzo. Regards, Ian Your personal opinion is not sustained by the facts. While benzos are first choice meds for PAD, so are AD’s. I use both in a combo. It may have to do with the question which neurotransmitters are dominant in your PD, serotonin (and/or norepinephrine) or GABA. If the former, an AD should do the job, if the latter a benzo would be preferable. I know I’m simplifying: many neurotransmitters are active in the human body and when you interfere with one, you’re interfering with the whole system. So it’s, roughly speaking, a matter of trial and error which med (or which combo) at which dose works best. It is to be expected that research in the near future will lead to a more refined diagnosis and consequently to the development of more effective meds. Philip I have a few questions about Prozac.  My doc is considering switching me from Paxil to Prozac because the Paxil doesn’t seem to be working that well (I’m still panicking, nervous, and now depressed).  But I’m not sure I want to take Prozac.  I’ve heard some bad things about it like it’s harder to stop taking than other SSRI’s.  That if you take it, you basically can never come off of it.  He gave me some information to read about Prozac, but of course it’s published by the makers of Prozac. A biased source if I ever heard one. I guess what I’m asking for is your experiences with Prozac…good ones and bad ones.  Paxil is the first SSRI I’ve been on and I know it’s rare that the first one works right, but I’m scared of the Prozac.  Any help or advice you can lend would be appreciated! Cathi

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all. Two days ago I went back to my gp for a checkup. He’s the one who dignosed my anxiety, panic and depression problems. Well when I last saw him a month ago he had upped my Zoloft to 100 mgs a day from 75. Well on Wednesday he re-evaluted me and found my depression back in the severe range and my anxiety level up yet again. So he upped my Zoloft to 150 mgs. All I can say now is, boy do I feel jumpy. But back to the original reason for my post ( I did say question not history lesson ). Should I be taking all 150 mgs of Zoloft at once? Or should I split it up somehow? I now take it all in the morning when I get up, because when I first started on it 18 months ago, it kept me awake if I took it at night but it was a much lower dose at the time, 25 mgs.  And my gp didn’t tell me. Actually it didn’t occur to me while I was there. And I don’t like calling back with what is probably a really stupid question. Is there anyone else out there who takes that much Zoloft? And if so could you help me?

Dear Mary, I think the reason for your jumpiness is the Zoloft increase. If you can tolerate it, stick with it,  it will dissipate with time. If you are finding this feeling too uncomfortable, you can decrease the dose to 125mgs, or even 112.5mgs. Most people increase their Zoloft dose in 12.5mg or 25mg increments. Increasing the dose by 50mgs might have been to much for you,but only you can make that call. If you decide to decrease your dose, please notify your doctor. Also, a benzo such as Xanax or Klonopin would help with this jumpy feeling. Most people take their Zoloft in one dose. I have heard of people splitting their dose though. SSRI`s can interfere with sleep,  again most people take them in the AM. There are always exceptions to the rules, some people take their AD`s at night and sleep well. If you had problems in the past with taking 200mgs of Zoloft, so don`t worry about the dose you are on. Good luck with the increase Jackie "Love is an irresistible desire to be irresistibly desired."

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I take Zoloft 150 mg every AM. No need to split the dose. If something makes you sleepy, take it at bedtime. If it makes you jumpy or nervous, take it in the AM. I’m talking about meds here, not food. Chip I wish i could take a nap after lunch

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Hi Mary! Zoloft. After many months, she is right on track with her dosage. I am sure if you E mailed her, she would have a good answer for you! Her name is Brenda. Good Luck! Steph

Mary Writes: – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Hi all. Two days ago I went back to my gp for a checkup. He’s the one who dignosed my anxiety, panic and depression problems. Well when I last saw him a month ago he had upped my Zoloft to 100 mgs a day from 75. Well on Wednesday he re-evaluted me and found my depression back in the severe range and my anxiety level up yet again. So he upped my Zoloft to 150 mgs. All I can say now is, boy do I feel jumpy. But back to the original reason for my post ( I did say question not history lesson ). Should I be taking all 150 mgs of Zoloft at once? Or should I split it up somehow? I now take it all in the morning when I get up, because when I first started on it 18 months ago, it kept me awake if I took it at night but it was a much lower dose at the time, 25 mgs.  And my gp didn’t tell me. Actually it didn’t occur to me while I was there. And I don’t like calling back with what is probably a really stupid question. Is there anyone else out there who takes that much Zoloft? And if so could you help me? Blessed be, Mary — Today is a gift, that’s why we call it the present.

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Hi all. Two days ago I went back to my gp for a checkup. He’s the one who dignosed my anxiety, panic and depression problems. Well when I last saw him a month ago he had upped my Zoloft to 100 mgs a day from 75. Well on Wednesday he re-evaluted me and found my depression back in the severe range and my anxiety level up yet again. So he upped my Zoloft to 150 mgs. All I can say now is, boy do I feel jumpy. But back to the original reason for my post ( I did say question not history lesson ). Should I be taking all 150 mgs of Zoloft at once? Or should I split it up somehow? I now take it all in the morning when I get up, because when I first started on it 18 months ago, it kept me awake if I took it at night but it was a much lower dose at the time, 25 mgs.  And my gp didn’t tell me. Actually it didn’t occur to me while I was there. And I don’t like calling back with what is probably a really stupid question. Is there anyone else out there who takes that much Zoloft? And if so could you help me? Blessed be, Mary — Today is a gift, that’s why we call it the present.

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(JacandGil) writes: I suffer from dry mouth too, and the Paxil is causing it. I know that you are further North than me, but here on LI, the pollen is horrendous. Everything has green dust on it, and I feel it in my mouth and throat, and I think it is aggravating my already dry mouth. I find I am drinking so much lately. I  try to drink alot of water, any other kind of fluid doesn`t seem to relieve the dryness. Take care.

I think that Jackie is right: allergies can make dry mouth much worse. (Green dust? That sounds *yucko!*) I’ve gotten hooked on those bottled waters. I’m sure that in a blind taste test I couldn’t distinguish them from nasty Cambridge tap water, but they make me feel good anyway. :-} -elizabeth

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Hi All, As you may recall, I increased my imipramine dosage from 75mg/day to 100 mg/day about six weeks ago. I experienced an increase of having a dry mouth but that faded to my "usual" dry mouth feeling after a week or so. Now it is back in full force this past week and worse than ever. This makes me extremely anxious because I feel as if my throat is blocked.  I know it is not because of hot days because it has been fairly cool here so I’m not losing moisture through perspiration (or "glowing" as my mom would say). Anyone have any ideas why this might flare up again? Truthfully, I’m at the point of maybe switching meds if it doesn’t ease up soon. Charley (still fighting the battle but feeling battle-weary these days)

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Hi All, As you may recall, I increased my imipramine dosage from 75mg/day to 100 mg/day about six weeks ago. I experienced an increase of having a dry mouth but that faded to my "usual" dry mouth feeling after a week or so. Now it is back in full force this past week and worse than ever. This makes me extremely anxious because I feel as if my throat is blocked.  I know it is not because of hot days because it has been fairly cool here so I’m not losing moisture through perspiration (or "glowing" as my mom would say). Anyone have any ideas why this might flare up again? Truthfully, I’m at the point of maybe switching meds if it doesn’t ease up soon. Charley (still fighting the battle but feeling battle-weary these days)

Hi Charley, I suffer from dry mouth too, and the Paxil is causing it. I know that you are further North than me, but here on LI, the pollen is horrendous. Everything has  green dust on it, and I feel it in my mouth and throat, and I think it is aggravating my already dry mouth. I find I am drinking so much lately. I  try to drink alot of water, any other kind of fluid doesn`t seem to relieve the dryness. Take care. Jackie "The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen, not touched. but are felt in the heart."

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