Posted by Lyn on October 30, 2002, at 9:05:27
In reply to ECT opinions cordially invited, posted by Thrud on October 30, 2002, at 4:51:34
> Medications work for me but I am at breaking point with their side effects: insomnia, fatigue, mental fuzziness and impotence amongst many. How long can we put up with them before something snaps? I am at that point.
>
> I need a vacation from medication. My pdoc and I have been talking seriously about ECT. We are considering unilateral only in order to minimize cognitive side effects.ECT is not generally considered sufficient on its own; medications need to continue to be taken.
> At present I am researching all I can about unilateral ECT (I would consider bifrontal too but there dosen't seem to be much information on it). From what I have read, I consider the possibility of catastrophic memory disruption to be low but at least some mild to moderate amount to be high.
>A perusal of this board will show varying opinions about ECT. Some find it very helpful. Others, like me, suffered huge memory loss, confusion and inablility to think clearly or speak properly for some time afterwards. However, there is no knowing how it will affect or work for you unless you try it. Every person is different.
> But I desperately need a vacation from medication. The last 12 years have been a twilight life: a joyless, (sub-optimal) functionality.This being the case, do you really think the meds have been working for you? Surely the idea is to feel better - even happy from time to time - and to function at a higher level than without them? Have you been on the same meds for the last 12 years? Would it help to review them?
>
> Forgive my ramblings: I'm not quite sure what I want people to say in response to this but please feel free to say whatever comes to mind. I haven't decided yet to take this enormous (and disastrous?) step. Maybe you can swing me one way or the other...
>I don't consider your post to be 'ramblings'. It seems that everyone here is trying to become well and hoping that somewhere amidst the posts someone will say something illuminating that will lead the reader on to the path to wellness. I can't tell you what to do; no-one can. However, when I was in a position where nothing was helping, I did try ECT.
poster:Lyn
thread:125772
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20021025/msgs/125793.html