![[dr. bob]](/dr-bob-sm.gif)
Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1948 to 1972 of 3446. Go back in thread:
Posted by LynneDa on June 8, 2004, at 14:10:05
In reply to RE:: simus » LynneDa, posted by simus on June 8, 2004, at 14:06:52
Thank you Simus - I feel the same way about you :-)!
If you have time, I'd love to know what natural remedies you've tried and how you feel they compare to the pharmaceuticals. I've tried 5-htp & Sam-E plus a bunch of herbal combos. I don't think I gave any of them a good enough go to assess whether they would've worked. Thanks!
~ Lynne
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Mystic,
>
> Ditto what Lynne said!!!
>
> Lynne,
>
> Thank you for always knowing the right thing to "say", and for taking the time to say it!
>
> Simus
>
>
Posted by mystic on June 8, 2004, at 15:17:27
In reply to RE:: simus » LynneDa, posted by simus on June 8, 2004, at 14:06:52
Hey Simus...My problem is Anxiety then depression because of the anxiety...I have horrific fears and think it stems from my childhood..but these anxiety/depression modes come without any reason sometimes after stressful situations...but everything in my life is great right now except for I feel just horrible...My phobia of meds doesnt help me either it just makes it harder and I feel the same way about alternative medicines but am willing to listen...I'm so happy when I can help you and that you find comfort in my words because I know that I feel comfort in yours all the time...That is the reason that I put my e-mail on the posts I do e-mail everyday with Mrs C. and sussilala..so I do keep in contact with them...It seems that the posts are getting fewer and fewer which makes me sad...But thanks for all your support...Luvya Mystic
Posted by mystic on June 8, 2004, at 15:20:49
In reply to RE:: simus » mystic, posted by LynneDa on June 8, 2004, at 13:39:43
Lynne.....So happy to hear from you thank you so much for taking the time to write..I have missed you very very much....How long have you been on the 20mgs and how long did it take to kick in...did you go to 15mgs first...I had a terrible time with upping to the 15mgs and just am scared to go up to the 20mgs...did you gain any weight when you upped your dosage to 20mgs and do you feel weird on the 20mgs ie: forgetful..sad..ect.Thanks so much for all you do..I luvya you alllll..your friend Mystic
Posted by LynneDa on June 8, 2004, at 15:40:05
In reply to RE:: Lynne, posted by mystic on June 8, 2004, at 15:20:49
Hi Mystic -
It did take a few weeks for the 20mg to kick in. I went straight to 20mg. I still feel sleepy/foggy though, unless I drink a couple of cups of coffee, and my appetite did increase. Not to discourage you, but I have to be honest. I've gained 15 lbs since I went up in January & I'm not a weight-gainer, always been under weight!On the good side, I'm happier in general except for the sleepy/foggy stuff. My insomnia & inorgasmia are completely gone. I rarely have panicky-type moments anymore & I'm more productive at work (except for the time I spend on Babble!) and at home. The little things don't make me blow up anymore!
So, I'm now taking 10mg most of the time and then 20mg when I ovulate and a week before my period - those are the times I am wackier. My doctor said my body'd be okay with that mix because I've been on Lex long enough. So far, so good. I get slightly nauseous on the days I go up to 20, but not bad, I just eat crackers like I did when I was first pregnant :-).
Please don't give up - try the 17.5 and keep going if you need to. Yours might be a harder nut to crack. Anxiety creates a lot of stress. Stress can lead to quite an outpouring of chemicals into your system. Hopefully the meds will control the chemical outflow a bit - enough so that you can take some control over your anxiety triggers. It's a cyclical thing, Mystic, and to break the cycle you have to start somewhere. I think for you, like for most of us, it's a mix between chemicals (drugs) and therapy. Please don't be afraid!!!!
~ Lynne
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Lynne.....So happy to hear from you thank you so much for taking the time to write..I have missed you very very much....How long have you been on the 20mgs and how long did it take to kick in...did you go to 15mgs first...I had a terrible time with upping to the 15mgs and just am scared to go up to the 20mgs...did you gain any weight when you upped your dosage to 20mgs and do you feel weird on the 20mgs ie: forgetful..sad..ect.Thanks so much for all you do..I luvya you alllll..your friend Mystic
Posted by Mrs. C on June 8, 2004, at 21:29:58
In reply to RE:: simus » LynneDa, posted by simus on June 8, 2004, at 14:06:52
Ditto what Simus said about what Lynne said. Thanks everyone for helping Mystic. She is such a sweet soul!!By the way I haven't said this in a while but all of you yo yo's mean the world to me! Thanks for always being so supportive and understanding. Have a great day! Mrs. C
Posted by jlynne on June 8, 2004, at 22:15:11
In reply to RE:: Lynne, posted by mystic on June 8, 2004, at 15:20:49
Mystic, I am so sorry you have been having such a hard time. It's bad enough that we have our *issues* to deal with, but now we have these tofu'ing meds on top of it! Is there such a thing as therapy for the therapy??
I'm sorry if everyone has felt like I desserted the thread, but I have been having personal and family issues to deal with; some of which I can't address on babble because of certain privacy concerns. I will explain in open, if I run into anyone in there.
I have been having a lot of bad dreams lately; mostly about my ex, but I am told that once the anniversary date passes things will start getting dramatically better. I sure hope so. I keep going through times where I just feel paralyzed and can't seem to make myself accomplish anything around the house. I have so many plans but no progress yet.
I want to re-landscape my vegetable garden and make it into a flower garden, with a fountain and paths and pretty little surprises here and there. I want to learn how to use my nailer/stapler and make cute things for my yard. I want to redecorate my house. I want to wash my mini blinds. Heck, right now I just want to CHANGE THE SHEETS ON MY BED!! Alas . . . I wish my doc could prescribe some motivation.
Oh, yeah . . . I was going to try to cheer you up, mystic . . . sorry . . . I got sidetracked. *smile*
Hey, sweetie, you have mentioned your childhood a couple times in here, but you have never really talked about it with the yo yo's. And I am not asking you to, but I was wondering if you have someone you can talk to about it? I have my sister, and she remembers the same type stuff that I do so we comfort and support each other. I hope you have someone, cuz those memories can really weigh you down if you don't have someone to share the burden with.
As for your meds, you know that I am taking lex for depression, so I really don't have first hand experience with anxiety and lex. But I do know that lex acts a lot differently in the system than say, paxil, which is what you have to compare, right? The lex is finally starting to level out for me, and this is my fifth month. What I am experiencing now is from life, not meds so much, and I am hoping that it is the same for you and we will both get through this and be stronger afterward. Every time you increase there is going to be a period of adjustment, but if this is the right med for you, you will be so glad you toughed it out because it is a steadier, more reliable relief in the end.
Gosh, I'm running on aren't I. You won't be so eager for me to come back after this (LOL). Hang in there, mystic; we are all pulling for you:~)
(((Mystic)))
...jlynne
Posted by simus on June 8, 2004, at 22:43:42
In reply to Mystic, posted by jlynne on June 8, 2004, at 22:15:11
jlynne,
Hey, we missed you so much, girl. I am sorry to hear that you are having problems. You will be in my prayers.
Don't expect too much from yourself right now. These plans and goals will come to pass in time.
God bless,
Simus
Posted by simus on June 8, 2004, at 22:45:35
In reply to Mystic, posted by jlynne on June 8, 2004, at 22:15:11
Mystic,
How was today?
How is that sweet little boy doing? I bet he is really growing fast!
Still praying...
Simus
Posted by simus on June 9, 2004, at 0:43:25
In reply to RE:: simus, posted by LynneDa on June 8, 2004, at 14:10:05
> If you have time, I'd love to know what natural remedies you've tried and how you feel they compare to the pharmaceuticals. I've tried 5-htp & Sam-E plus a bunch of herbal combos. I don't think I gave any of them a good enough go to assess whether they would've worked. Thanks!
> ~ LynneLynne,
I have been struggling for over an hour now on a good response to your post. I wish I had a blanket answer for you, but there are so many, many factors to be considered. First of all, I would like to recommend the books "Depression Free, Naturally" and "The Mood Cure". They are both excellent. They talk of the brain chemicals and how to determine if or which we are deficient in. They also talk of other possible causes of depression/anxiety such as hormones, thyroid, and adrenal exhaustion, just to name a few. The books cover supplements that would be helpful, as well as those that should be avoided. They cover vitamins, minerals, amino acids, Omega oils, herbs, etc. They also cover diet and lifestyle. They have references for what testing can be done and who can do it. These books are such a wealth of information. The one thing I have found out is that our situations are each so unique, and that our bodies can be out of balance for so many reasons.
As far as taking 5htp on a SSRI, you have to be careful because the 5htp is the precursor to serotonin production and you could be in danger of serotonin syndrome (worst case is coma or death). But I don't think it is a problem for those not on any psychiatric meds - not sure. I think SAM-e should be taken with caution while on a SSRI also.
In my own situation, from information in the books I have learned of and have tested positive for a genetic blood disorder that causes a depletion of vitamin B6 and zinc, both critical to proper brain function. This disorder also causes adrenal exhaustion, and I do fit the profile. So I am not only adding extra B6 and zinc to my standard supplements, but I am also treating the adrenal exhaustion. I have come a LONG way, but I am still trying to get the right balance of supplements and proper lifestyle changes to treat the adrenal exhaustion. The books are clear that although there is some immediate improvement, recovery may take up to a year. Since it is a genetic disorder, I will probably have to treat it to some degree my whole life. But it sure beats facing a lifetime of drugs or sickness.
There are some things that I think I could safely recommend to everyone though. Gingko biloba is a great herb. It improves blood flow to the brain, elevates the mood in people prone to depression, and is a powerful anti-oxidant. Ginger root (I use it in tea form) is an adaptogen, which means it helps normalize many body functions. Green tea (in tea form), even though it has a small amount of caffeine, it contains anti-oxidants and other nutrients. Indian Ginseng (Ashwagandha Root) and Siberian ginseng root are excellent for many, many reasons. Indian ginseng is an adaptogen (like ginger). Siberian ginseng has the unique quality of both increasing energy levels and calming anxiety (do not use though if your blood pressure is very high). Of course, all of these should be taken in moderation. I make a cup of tea every day that has one green tea bag, one ginger tea bag, and one ginseng tea bag. It clears my mind, lifts my mood, calms anxiety, and just makes me "feel good".Some things that should definitely be avoided are street drugs (needless to say), alcohol, tobacco, coffee/black tea, sugar, white flour, "bad fats" and highly processed foods. Well, I think everybody knows these things, but actually cutting them all out does make a huge difference.
Gee, I sure hope this helped some.
God bless.
Simus
Posted by simus on June 9, 2004, at 1:15:22
In reply to RE:: simus, posted by mystic on June 8, 2004, at 15:17:27
Mystic,
I am so sorry for taking so long to answer, but I have been doing research for you. Could you answer a few other questions? There are 6 primary causes of anxiety, and 5 of the 6 lean toward one treatment and 1 of the 6 has a unique treatment. I just want to make sure I don't recommend the wrong thing. (In the mean time, if you don't have high blood pressure, try some Siberian Ginseng Root (or Eleutherococus senticosus) tea. You can get it at the grocery store - it is very common. It has a very odd quality of both energizing and calming at the same time. And in tea form, you have more control (for your med phobia). Take a few sips, then wait to see how you react, then take a few more sips...
Questions:
Has hyperthyroidism been ruled out?
Do you sunburn easily, or have fair skin?
Does your face look swollen when under a lot of stress?
Do you belong to an all girl family, or have you miscarried a boy? (You don't have to answer that.)
Do you have stretchmarks?
Do you eat/drink a lot of sugar?
Do you drink a lot of caffeine?
I sure hope I can find something to help you sweetie.God bless,
Simus
Posted by LynneDa on June 9, 2004, at 9:55:45
In reply to RE:: simus » LynneDa, posted by simus on June 9, 2004, at 0:43:25
Simus - THANK YOU! I really appreciate you taking the time to summarize some of your knowledge and thoughts . . . and I'm sure many others reading this will learn something too! I love the tea idea. I know I need to take more supplements, vitamins, etc. I wouldn't take the 5-htp or sam-e with my AD, I used to take them before I went on Lex. I've recently stopped drinking coffee (well, almost completely - I really love it!) and started just drinking green tea either hot or iced.
I will read those books. I think I'm finally feeling good enough again to do some other things for myself that will help overall. It all takes so much energy, doesn't it?!?! I have an appt with my general med doc next week. I can't get thru the fatigue so I want to have everything checked out.
THANK YOU - you are a wonderful support and fountain of wisdom :-)
~ Lynne
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Posted by simus on June 9, 2004, at 11:39:19
In reply to RE:: simus, posted by LynneDa on June 9, 2004, at 9:55:45
Lynne,
I felt bad that I couldn't offer more specific help. But I didn't know enough about you and I didn't want to take the chance of something actually making you worse instead of better.
> I think I'm finally feeling good enough again to do some other things for myself that will help overall. It all takes so much energy, doesn't it?!?!
It sure does. I couldn't help myself more for years until I had enough clarity of mind to sort through the mountain of info out there to find something to help me.
> I have an appt with my general med doc next week. I can't get thru the fatigue so I want to have everything checked out.
The fatigue could be the Lexapro. Did you have fatigue before Lex? If it was me, depending on insurance coverage and cost of course, I would definite get a thyroid panel and possibly a hormone panel depending on age, as well as the basic testing. There is so much more testing that I could recommend, but traditional doctors usually scoff at it. So if you don't get a satisfactory answer from your doctor's tests, there are always alternative medical centers that can run tests for vitamin/mineral levels in the blood, etc.
Good luck, and God bless.
Simus
Posted by Gator on June 9, 2004, at 12:34:21
In reply to RE:: simus, posted by mystic on June 8, 2004, at 13:24:24
Mystic,
I am on Lex for depression but as a result of being on Lex I have calmed some of the anxiety that I had but never realized it was controlable(sp?) (LOL). I always knew I was very sad, but there were things that I would constantly worry about. I started at 10mgs. After awhile I was getting sad again. My Dr. said to go up to 20mgs. I took 15mgs for about a month and felt kinda in limbo during that month. Since I have been on 20mgs I have been feeling really good. I really feel like my old self is coming back. I am getting happy with my self and standing up for my self. There was alot of self examination that has helped this happiness but I think the Lex has helped me be able to make some life changes. I guess what I am trying to say (the long way) is try the increase to 20mgs when you get the strength and don't expect instant results - just try to wake up every morning thinking that things are going to be good today!! I hope the best for you because are a very special person and deserve to be happy.
Sorry to be so long. Take care of yourself and I will continue to pray for your happiness!
Gator
Posted by simus on June 9, 2004, at 13:40:25
In reply to RE:: simus » mystic, posted by Gator on June 9, 2004, at 12:34:21
Gator,
Thanks for the encouragement for Mystic. She needs something hopeful to hold on to right now.
I am so glad you are doing well! It is a tough battle, but worth the fight.
God bless.
Posted by mystic on June 9, 2004, at 18:18:37
In reply to RE:: simus » mystic, posted by simus on June 9, 2004, at 1:15:22
Hey simus...thanks for the post....
Has hyperthyroidism been ruled out?
I have bloodwork done every year at my annual and they have never said anything...My sister has hypoglycemia (sp) and thinks that I should watch the things I eat...I looooveeee chocolate and sweets but I'm not really too bad mostly at work and I only work 4 days a week...
Do you sunburn easily, or have fair skin?
No i'm not fair skinned more oliveish..
Does your face look swollen when under a lot of stress?
Never noticed dont think so...
Do you belong to an all girl family, or have you miscarried a boy? (You don't have to answer that.)
no and no
Do you have stretchmarks?
No
Do you eat/drink a lot of sugar?
Well yes and no..I dont really when I'm not at work..but I do have like a cookie..chocolates..sweets at work..people bring them in all the time and I work for a dentist figure that out...I eat a lot of those well should say usually every day those parfaits from mcdonalds it is lowfat yogurt and sugar free strawberries and blueberries....
Do you drink a lot of caffeine?
I stay away from caffeine the only way I would get it would be in chocolate and dont eat tooo much of that..when I do I dont feel so well I notice lately on the lex...
I hope that is helpful Dr. Simus...hahahha...you are the bestest of the best...What do you do for a living...I'm thinking about a lot of different things that you would be good at...A friend is the first that comes to mind a very good one...Thanks for all you do Simus...
My grandson is doing great and my daughter also they are the best I'm glad I'm only 41 and able to be young enough to enjoy..and hope to get to the point that I enjoy it totally when I'm feeling better...Right now I do enjoy the time I spend with him and I see him just about every day...thanks for asking...
This week has been very trying I'm still very discouraged but think that my decision to leave the board which lasted 2 days because i realize how special everyone is ...through good and bad and that is amazing...just amazing...Thank you Simus for all your support...How are you feeling good I hope..I will talk to you later..Luvya Your friend always...Mystic
Posted by mystic on June 9, 2004, at 18:20:28
In reply to RE:: simus » mystic, posted by Gator on June 9, 2004, at 12:34:21
Gator...thank you so much for your post It was very special and you are very special also..it is amazing how wonderful people are on here when you need them...I really listen to what you say and it helps me in my decisions greatly so I hope that you know that even though you might not think it is much when you post simple words but it is more than that to me...it is encouragement and friendship and sometimes hope..thank you gator and I'm praying for all of you also..Your friend Always luvya ....Mystic
Posted by mystic on June 9, 2004, at 18:23:10
In reply to RE:: Gator, posted by mystic on June 9, 2004, at 18:20:28
Lynne I read your posts everyday also thank you so much for hanging in there with us you are a wonderful person...It seems like our group is getting smaller and that makes me sad but there is always someone there to help and I appreciate it sooooo much...Hopefully someday we will all be just better and better...Luvya Your friend Always...Mystic
Posted by mystic on June 9, 2004, at 18:24:52
In reply to RE:: Lynne » mystic, posted by LynneDa on June 8, 2004, at 15:40:05
Lynne..when you said that you have gained weight since being on the 20mgs...do you work out??.. do you find yourself eating more without having control over it??... just wondering you dont have to answer me but just curious about the weight gain things since when I was on the paxil gained over 45lbs and have gotten down to where I was before and it took time and working out which I wasnt doing before...Thanks girlfriend.>>Mystic
Posted by Mrs. C on June 9, 2004, at 19:47:43
In reply to Mystic, posted by jlynne on June 8, 2004, at 22:15:11
Jlynne, so good to hear from you again. It was so nice of you to try to help Mystic even though you are struggling yourself. Isn't that what life is about though, taking care of eachother. I hope that things become a little nicer for you soon and that you are able to accomplish of of those wonderful things you spoke of. Love, Mrs.C
Posted by Mrs. C on June 9, 2004, at 19:57:34
In reply to RE:: simus » mystic, posted by Gator on June 9, 2004, at 12:34:21
Gator, nice to hear from you. Glad that you are doing so well. Mrs. C
Posted by mystic on June 9, 2004, at 21:10:12
In reply to RE:: simus, posted by Mrs. C on June 9, 2004, at 19:57:34
Jlynne...so happy to hear from you again..I have missed you soooooo much on the posts...I know that you are in open alot but never when I'm in there and I get booted alot...Thanks for being you and please check in more often we all think of you sooo much and hope that your hard time will get a little easier soon..firsts are always soooo hard but you are a wonderful person and you will find your happiness...you really will...Luvya Your friend Mystic
Posted by mystic on June 9, 2004, at 22:22:17
In reply to Redirected Lexaproers, posted by jlynne on March 13, 2004, at 1:31:16
Hey Lexy...anxious babe where are you guys this week??..you are missed as always...K..did you disappear...there are so many not around anymore..I cant wait to hear from the 2 brides to see how everything went...Take care everyone..Your friend Mystic...Hey Emily where the heck is emily
Posted by simus on June 9, 2004, at 23:42:53
In reply to RE:: simus, posted by mystic on June 9, 2004, at 18:18:37
Hey thanks, Mystic. That gave me a lot to go on. Please remember that I am NOT a doctor, just a friend, and you should get your doctor's advice before you try anything.
Hypoglycemia can cause anxiety, but I would guess you have more going on than that.
A B vitamin deficiency can cause anxiety. You could consider trying a good-quality B complex. B3 (niacinamide) has a calming effect. Inositol is also a B vitamin - it regulates serotonin and reduces anxiety. If you decide to supplement individual B vitamins, you should also supplement a B complex for balance. I personally have improved by taking B vitamins.
A good quality calcium/magnesium supplement could also help. It usually comes in 2 parts calcium to 1 part magnesium, or you could take them individually. I was very deficient in magnesium, and I don't know what I would do without it now.
Then there are the amino acids. Be careful with taking individual amino acids unless you know a lot about them. One thing you could try though is GABA. I haven't needed to try it yet so I can't tell you my experience. Gamma-aminobutyric acid is a calming brain neurotransmitter, and it has been shown to relieve anxiety.
There has also been a lot of talk about Omega oils. Several people on the Psycho-Babble Alternative board have trouble with fish oil, but I have done good on evening primrose oil or even flax seed oil.
Well, how's that for a start? If you do decide to try natural supplements, it is wise to add only one at a time to see how your body reacts to it. A great place to start would be just a good B complex.
LOL. It's funny how being so sick and wanting so much to be well again can cause a person to pick up this much information. I sure hope if you try any of this that it helps you. Let me know.
God bless.
Simus
P.S. (mechanical engineer) ;-)
Posted by LynneDa on June 10, 2004, at 9:46:59
In reply to RE: PS Lynne, posted by mystic on June 9, 2004, at 18:24:52
Mystic -
Sadly, I don't work out much anymore and that is part of the problem I am sure. At 40, I know my metabolism is changing on its own without the Lex. I walk on my treadmill 3- 4 times per week and take the steps at work a few times a week (I'm on the 5th floor) - but that's about it! I don't snack a whole lot - maybe a cookie or a couple pieces of chocolate, but I am just always hungry now - didn't used to be like this. If I can decrease my fatigue I'll be able to exercise more. I'm going to my doctor next week to have my thyroid, iron, etc., checked out! You are such a work out person, you should be fine!
~ Lynne
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Lynne..when you said that you have gained weight since being on the 20mgs...do you work out??.. do you find yourself eating more without having control over it??... just wondering you dont have to answer me but just curious about the weight gain things since when I was on the paxil gained over 45lbs and have gotten down to where I was before and it took time and working out which I wasnt doing before...Thanks girlfriend.>>Mystic
Posted by anxious babe on June 10, 2004, at 11:04:16
In reply to RE::: Lexy..anxious babe, posted by mystic on June 9, 2004, at 22:22:17
Hi all,
I was having trouble with my email this weekend and couldn't get on the boards for some reason - I had to register all over again.
So how are all my friends doing? Mystic you sound much better and I am so happy that you are back - two days without you was lonely enough.
Sexy Lexy - where have you been? I haven't even heard from you on my personal email...I hope your having fun but check in once in a while we miss you.
Mrs. C your quiet but I know that you are so busy wrapping up everything for the end of the school year.
Simus, it's good to hear that your feeling better.
Where has bride been? I know that one is getting married this week and the other one is probably tying up all of her loose ends.So can anyone tell me what OPEN is - I often hear you guys say that you were talking in open but I just can't figure out how to get there - can someone Help me! I tried reading all of the boards and I can't find one that says open.
Thanks yo-yo's - love and blessings to all,
Anxious babe
Go forward in thread:
Psycho-Babble Social | Extras | FAQ
Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.org
Script revised: February 4, 2008
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/cgi-bin/pb/mget.pl
Copyright 2006-17 Robert Hsiung.
Owned and operated by Dr. Bob LLC and not the University of Chicago.