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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by Journeyman on November 23, 2003, at 22:23:34
In reply to Re: Mariposa » Journeyman, posted by Mariposa on November 23, 2003, at 22:00:41
Am checking out for the night - back tomorrow night. In the meantime, perhaps I'll have some inspiration about a clever signature. Thanks for your replies.
Richard
Posted by Mariposa on November 24, 2003, at 0:16:04
In reply to Re: Mariposa » Mariposa, posted by Journeyman on November 23, 2003, at 22:14:02
> Given what I've just read about PMDD I'm not surprised you got started on AD medication. Did you have depression before you felt (or recognized) the PMDD symptoms? I'm asking because I'm wondering what your pdoc's plan is. Mine wants me to try it for a year to see if I can 'break the cycle' of depression that comes and goes.
>
> RichardI suppose I have been depressed for quite a while and just did not realize it. I thought I was just tired, or getting old. Also have been an insomniac most of adult life, and didn't think THAT could cause depression either.
About 2 years ago I started feeling different physically and mentally and just thought I was peri-menopausal, even though I was 46. Saw gyn doc and was dx w/PMDD. We didn't discuss length of treatment, something to talk about next time I see him for once yearly visit. I suppose I will continue on it, have had good results .....so far.~~~8|8
Posted by Gator on November 24, 2003, at 9:12:40
In reply to how's everyone doing??, posted by sapphira on November 22, 2003, at 18:53:29
Hey everybody,
I think that this holiday season is going to the best I have had in a very long time. I had Thanksgiving with some family from out of town on Sat. and almost everyone noticed a positive change in me. I was able to relax and have a very good time. I have been taking 10mg of Lex for 7 weeks now and I am feeling good. I have struggled with depression since I was a kid but was never treated. I wonder now how my life could have been better if I would have been treated before I was over 30. But, I can't look back just look forward to each tommorow!!
Thanks to everybody who gives support to anyone who needs it!!
Gator
Posted by sfmom on November 24, 2003, at 15:24:54
In reply to Re: First day, posted by Bob67/68 on November 23, 2003, at 17:34:30
> I am just now on the 4th day of 10mg Lexapro daily dose, as a result of my "world" crashing down due to lots of converging stresses. I am especially interested in hearing from males 55-62 that are also Viet Nam vets with experiences with PTSD. Also se's in this age group. All help/input/info will be appreciated. Thanks for any replies.
Hi and welcome. I am neither a vet nor in the above age group but am being treated for PTSD. Obviously, meds by themselves aren't going to make it "go away" and it always seems to rear its ugly head just when you thought you got it under control. I honestly don't know that it will ever be gone, but I've gotten better at finding help for myself and knowing when to ask for it. As for treatment, EMDR has been extremely helpful for me. I also have a therapist who specializes in PTSD and is wonderful. Hopefully, in conjunction with the meds, I'll be able to get through this one, which has been the worst so far.
I have seen first-hand the effects Viet Nam has had on people. The first time I saw my father cry, we were driving down the freeway and some helicopters went over us and he just froze, told me to get out of the car (safely on the shoulder) and just cried. He's now 50 (he went over when he was just 17) and still has nightmares.
Most importantly, you are not alone. We are here to help you in any way possible, and there are so many people who have shared your experiences in Viet Nam and have lived through the same horrors. Good luck.
Posted by sfmom on November 24, 2003, at 15:28:33
In reply to Keep at it » sfmom, posted by Journeyman on November 23, 2003, at 21:33:05
> Dear SFMom:
>
> I'm so glad to hear you received another month's extension on the disability. And congratulations on doing the exercise. Look how different things are for you today than they were when you posted only a few days ago. We live only one day at a time and you're making progress. Keep at it because you deserve it. We all do.
>
> RichardWhat a sweetheart you are. Thank you for pointing out the good things for me!
Posted by sfmom on November 24, 2003, at 15:34:23
In reply to Re: how's everyone doing?? » sfmom, posted by Mariposa on November 23, 2003, at 14:20:01
> > Hi Sapphira, I'm glad that the lex seems to be working for you. I'm up to 20mg and although my anxiety is better, the depression is really, really bad. So I'm just waiting out the next three weeks to see how I am after that miraculous six weeks. My doc also extended my disabity until Jan 5 (instead of Dec 1) so that is a big pressure lifted, I just don't know how I'm going to pay the mortgage! I'm still suffering from some stomach problems and have no appetite to speak of but I've started trying to exercise a couple times a week and it's really helped me feel better. I have to say though, the weight loss has been a nice side effect. I never thought I'd be a size 6 again! Of course I know it's not healthy and I'll gain weight as soon as I start eating normally again but with so much dragging me down, it's nice to have some good things too. Take care of yourself and keep us posted!
>
> You may not regain the weight, keep fingers crossed!!! I lost weight in the first few months, went from a size 10 to a 6, and have not gained it back. Have returned to old eating habits. Had a physical and everything checks out ok. Positive thoughts!! I also had trouble w/depression not easing at first, but now seem to have a handle on it most days.
>
> Hang in there and hopefully the best is yet to come!~~~8|8
Oh I hope so!!! It's great to hear that you were able to keep it off and stay healthy. I just hope to keep it off until April because although I usually refer to him as my husband already because we've been together so long, we are not married yet and have finally set a date of April 3, 2004! I am so excited. I know it could be difficult planning a weddding while dealing with all of this too, but it (other than my daughter) is my happy thought that keeps me going when I want to crawl in a hole. So please keep your fingers crossed for me!
Posted by Journeyman on November 24, 2003, at 19:44:04
In reply to Re: how's everyone doing??, posted by Gator on November 24, 2003, at 9:12:40
Gator:
It's always good to hear something positive. Glad things went so well for you at your Thanksgiving get-together and good for you for facing that monkey on the back (and legs, and arms, and in your face)called depression.
Here's to feeling better.
Richard
Posted by Journeyman on November 24, 2003, at 20:12:02
In reply to Re: Keep at it » Journeyman, posted by sfmom on November 24, 2003, at 15:28:33
And congratulations on getting your date set in April. You'll have a lot of stress between now and then (even though much of it will be positive)so keep exercising. Someone told me recently they'd heard that daily exercise has the potential to produce the exact same effects on the brain as AD medicine (but obviously with much better side effects :-)) I hope you'll brag about it here everytime you work out.
Richard
Posted by Oldhand on November 24, 2003, at 21:24:15
In reply to Re: Keep at it » sfmom, posted by Journeyman on November 24, 2003, at 20:12:02
> And congratulations on getting your date set in April. You'll have a lot of stress between now and then (even though much of it will be positive)so keep exercising. Someone told me recently they'd heard that daily exercise has the potential to produce the exact same effects on the brain as AD medicine (but obviously with much better side effects :-)) I hope you'll brag about it here everytime you work out.
>
> RichardAnd ditto from me SFmom. Congrats on feeling better, congrats on having a partner who has stuck by you, congrats on the wedding date.
My pdoc told me exercize is thought to regenerate brain cells (lost for me, to alcohol abuse). Lord knows exercize makes us all feel better, and for me reduces the tension I sometimes have on the Lex. Keep on keepin on! Peace and a wonderful Thanksgiving to all.
Shelley
Posted by Gator on November 25, 2003, at 8:12:46
In reply to Gator » Gator, posted by Journeyman on November 24, 2003, at 19:44:04
Thank you for your support!! This board has been a major factor in feeling as good as I do.
Thanks again.
Gator
Posted by LynneDa on November 25, 2003, at 9:08:30
In reply to Re: how's everyone doing?? » Mariposa, posted by sfmom on November 24, 2003, at 15:34:23
sfmom - I'm just getting caught up on posts. Congratulations on your disability being extended and especially on your wedding date! I got married last year (2nd time) while being pretty depressed - before meds - and I think having that focus of planning kept me afloat. Good luck!
Gator - What a great and positive message!! It is wonderful to finally feel good again, isn't it. Having the affirmation of other people noticing how you've changed is wonderful, too!
Journeyman (Richard) - You are also so positive and wonderful to hear from! Your posts are very encouraging.
Mariposa - I love hearing from you because I am a fellow PMDD sufferer and after a month or so on Lex, I am starting to become my good old self again. A little weird lately cuz sometimes it's hard remembering how to act since I was usually so angry or sad. What to replace it with? It's starting to come more naturally now, though. Little by little, day by day, I'm feeling better. Thanks for all your stories and encouragement as well.
I probably left somebody out of this list who's been posting and encouraging, but I look forward to coming in to work every day and checking messages to see how everyone is doing and how everyone is coping.
THANKS to you all and I wish everyone a happy and peaceful Thanksgiving Holiday!
~Lynne
Posted by Gator on November 25, 2003, at 10:18:41
In reply to Re: how's everyone doing??, posted by LynneDa on November 25, 2003, at 9:08:30
Lynne,
I have had the dilema of how to act now that there is not a dark cloud over my head too. It just feels good to laugh! Thanks for the encouragment.
Holidays wishes to you too!!
Gator
Posted by Esmarelda on November 25, 2003, at 10:26:49
In reply to Re: Seems to be losing it's effect, posted by lonewolf91$ on November 22, 2003, at 22:39:20
You may want to try going up to 12.5 or 15 mg. Some times the Lex or any AD "poops out"
and you have to up the dosage some. I had to up mine after a few months and have been at 15mg for 3 months doing fine. Good luck.
Posted by Bailey Locke on November 25, 2003, at 11:24:09
In reply to Re: Seems to be losing it's effect, posted by lonewolf91$ on November 22, 2003, at 22:39:20
I've been on 10mg for a month now and the only side effect I've experienced is an occassional itch rash, like very mild poison ivy. I think this might be due to the fact that I've only limited my red wine intake instead of stopping it.
Posted by COOP on November 25, 2003, at 13:46:06
In reply to Re: Seems to be losing it's effect » lonewolf91$, posted by Esmarelda on November 25, 2003, at 10:26:49
After 5 weeks I think my meds kicked in. Had two very good days and than today not so good.
Does it take more time on the meds for them to stay working longer? I started with 10mg for 3 weeks and now on 15mg
Joel
Posted by orlando on November 25, 2003, at 13:56:44
In reply to Re: about insomnia side effect, posted by samenewme on October 3, 2002, at 21:56:35
I have just located this board and actually wish I had found it earlier (10 years earlier). I have been on Lexapro (20mg) and am trying to discontinue it. I cut back to 10mg for 2 weeks and then 0. This is my 7th day without the medication and I am very dizzy. My doctor does not seem to think the discontinuance of the Lexapro has anything to do with my being dizzy. But this same thing happened when I quit taking Celexa. Does anyone know if this is a "normal" side effect that goes away with time? I have been on antidepressants since the early 90's and want to see what life is like without medication -- (I hate the sexual side effects). BUT I feel so bad today, the medicine cabinet keeps calling me. Any help would be most appreciated. I also saw an earlier message about 5HTP but cannot find it again. Has anyone had luck with that? Thanks!
Posted by Esmarelda on November 25, 2003, at 15:24:14
In reply to Has anyone stopped taking Celexa/Lexapro? SE?, posted by orlando on November 25, 2003, at 13:56:44
I do not have any personal experience but have seen others post that there are definitely side effects with withdrawal from AD, particularly Lex with dizziness. I would taper very slowly. Go down to 5 every day, then 2.5 every day and then maybe even every other day until you taper down to 0. Good luck!
Posted by orlando on November 25, 2003, at 15:45:51
In reply to Re: Has anyone stopped taking Celexa/Lexapro? SE? » orlando, posted by Esmarelda on November 25, 2003, at 15:24:14
Esmarelda, thanks for your note. I think I am going to take your exact advise. I just gave in and took 10mg (5 minutes ago)....will taper off more gradually - as you suggested. You know, I should have known to do that in the first place - I was just anxious to see how I felt without an AD (for a change). And for the first few days at 0 dose, I felt fine. And then whammo....so thanks again. This is a very good board with lots of knowledgeable folks willing to share experiences and help others. I'll continue to check in and hopefully I'll be able to help someone along the way.
Posted by Esmarelda on November 25, 2003, at 15:56:11
In reply to Re: Has anyone stopped taking Celexa/Lexapro? SE? » Esmarelda, posted by orlando on November 25, 2003, at 15:45:51
Your welcome.
Posted by Mariposa on November 25, 2003, at 16:08:14
In reply to Re: Seems to be losing it's effect, posted by COOP on November 25, 2003, at 13:46:06
> After 5 weeks I think my meds kicked in. Had two very good days and than today not so good.
> Does it take more time on the meds for them to stay working longer? I started with 10mg for 3 weeks and now on 15mg
> JoelIt's possible, literature says 6-8 weeks. I started @5mg and around wk 4-5 I felt like I was getting worse not better. Doc upped to 10mg and it helped. May consider giving it a little longer or discuss higher dose w/doc.
Best of lucl!~~~8|8
Posted by Scribbler on November 25, 2003, at 16:37:26
In reply to how's everyone doing??, posted by sapphira on November 22, 2003, at 18:53:29
Greetings --I'm starting week #7 and doing great. Yesterday my husband said, "You're getting skinny!" Well, I'm not, really, but I've kept off the few pounds I lost those first weeks when I had no appetite, and that feels wonderful. Tomorrow we're flying to AZ for a week and w/o Lex I'd have been a nervous wreck, guaranteed. I like this "new" me -- I don't cry so easily, don't carry around a bag of anxious woes, don't find myself feeling like such a failure because I wasn't as strong as I wanted to be. Thanks again to all of you who took time to encourage me and get me to this point. I recall the first night I checked in -- nauseated and scared -- and you were there with assurance and hugs. You will be in my private thoughts of gratitude on Thanksgiving Day.
Posted by Esmarelda on November 25, 2003, at 16:39:53
In reply to Re: how's everyone doing??, posted by Scribbler on November 25, 2003, at 16:37:26
So glad to hear you are doing well. It is well worth the wait through the SE's. Have fun in AZ! Happy Thanksgiving! Here's to Lexapro!
Posted by Journeyman on November 25, 2003, at 21:05:46
In reply to Journeyman, posted by Gator on November 25, 2003, at 8:12:46
Wishing all of you a happy, healthy Thanksgiving (and life).
I'm not sure whether I'll be able to get on for a few days - going to upstate NY. Will check in when I get back.
Thanks for your message Lynne.
Richard
Posted by LynneLaf on November 25, 2003, at 21:24:36
In reply to Re: how's everyone doing?? » Scribbler, posted by Esmarelda on November 25, 2003, at 16:39:53
Hi Everyone,
I've been reading all the postings on starting Lex. I started 2 days ago and reading all your words or encouragement is helpful. My husband is on a different anti-depressent since early September, and he is much better. He has a long road to go but he is on the right tract. I did not realize I had issues too since he was so bad putting a cloud on our marriage. But looking back, I realized I have been depressed for about 4 years and I needed some help if were going to give our daughters a healthy childhood and a happy marriage. I hope this helps, I look foward to being "normal" and my self again. I really miss that person.
Posted by C.Burton on November 25, 2003, at 21:26:08
In reply to Re: Lexapro Loss of Appetite » RRCarlo, posted by Journeyman on November 23, 2003, at 21:24:40
Does anyone have anything positive to say about Lexapro? My husband just started it for depression related symptoms and I became concerned after finding out it is a derivative of Celexa. He took Celexa a few years back for several months and it helped the symptoms but caused him to gain weight and be overly tired.
Would really like feedback!
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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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