Posted by Liberty on October 31, 2002, at 20:19:05
I was recently diagnosed with Cyclothymia. Forgive my ignorance, but I am overwhelmingly embarrassed and humiliated, especially because of it's closeness to "Bipolar" and "Manic" depression. I have done a lot of research and still I cannot discern the difference between Bipolar and Manic Depression. Could someone please explain it to me? Many articles say that Cyclothymia sometimes becomes Bipolar or MD. Is Cyclothymia in and of itself progressive? I refuse to take Lithium because I would rather be known as a psycho than to gain weight. My doctor has prescribed Risperadal at a very low dose. He says this is a common treatment for Cyclothymia, but that is not what I read. At first it was amazing how much better I felt and acted with Risperadal. My anger did not flare-up as much, I was calmer, less irritable. It was wonderful. But now only 6 months later it seems that the Risperadal is not helping anymore, I'm biting people's heads off and I am at times anxious and in a rush. What could this mean? Does one typically need an increase of this medication in order for it to be effective? Am I getting worse? Have I in fact crossed-over into one of the forbidden diagnosis above? I am asking you out there because my doctor - the only one around that my HMO approves of never has time for questions. I realize you cannot diagnose. I am asking for information on the progression of the disease and effective treatment and management. Thanks.
poster:Liberty
thread:126001
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20021025/msgs/126001.html