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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 154 to 178 of 226. Go back in thread:
Posted by Tuck on August 24, 2002, at 8:32:04
In reply to Re: PMDD-sarafem disaster, posted by nikioct73 on August 23, 2002, at 21:34:23
> Hey..decribe what happens...and prozac is an AD and not an antianxity med..PMDD is a very serious thing...and depression is a huge part..Weird head brain thing?...have you seen a neurologist??
I am seeing a neurologist on Monday. Although, my EEG and my MRI have came back normal. When I am having one of my middle of the month hardships it is like I am out of it. My head feels like it is not attached. When I am driving it freaks me out because I can't concentrate on the road. I get real warm and usually fan myself and sometimes feel a little neauseated. I try to blink to clear my head and I always have a headache in the back of my head. Which is followed by a few days of a bad headache. Then the next week I feel completely like myself again. Until that is, I get bitchy because it is pms time!!! Every other blood test I have had (including thyroid) has came back normal. Except for an ANA test that for me is always elevated.
These things that I have at the middle of the month have gotten so bad that I call my husband or my mom to come over. I have never lost consiousness during one though...
Posted by Tuck on August 24, 2002, at 8:58:30
In reply to Re: PMDD-sarafem disaster, posted by polarbear206 on August 23, 2002, at 20:58:24
> > I have been reading through these messages all day hoping I have found some answers. I am at my whits end. I have three kids, am 34 years old and have been miserable for the last year and a half. Prior to that I was either pregnant or on the pill. Since then I have always suffered my worst pms the week after my period. (the moodiness part of it anyways) The uncontrollable eating is the week before. I went to the doctor with a card that I had torn out of a magazine about Sarafem. He (who is always in a hurry) gave me some samples to try and hurried me out of his office. This was in Feb. 2001. I took the Sarafem for not even a week and had a herrible reaction to it. It was the 2nd week in Feb. and I was driving to the mall with my 2 year old. I felt like I was going to pass out, sort of. Like I couldn't concentrate on driving. I had a hard time speaking and basically felt really out of it. Well the whole thing was chalked up to side effects of the drug and I quit taking it obviously! But, I still have the same problems around the middle of the month.(2 weeks into my cycle) I have to have someone drive me places, I feel like I am spacing out....
> > This has been going on for a year and a half now and I don't think a weeks worth of Sarafem can mess you up that bad, but now that I read some of the other messages about concentration and driving I am wondering if I do have PMDD. I didn't think I needed the Sarafem for the depression. I have a great hubby and kids and I am not at all depressed. Confused maybe! I have been to many doctors. I have had an EEG of the brain and a MRI done, both were read as normal. My big thing is that these spells (so to speak) are always in the middle of the month......
> > If anyone out there has any info. I would love to hear it!!!!
> > Kathy
>
>
> Kathy,
>
> You could have an underlying mood disorder, I had
> some of the same problems starting mid cycle. Confusion, lethargy, concentration problems. some antidepressants can exacerbate underlying mood disorders. Prozac and sarafem are the same drug. I couldn't take prozac at all. The week after my period was worse also until I started taking Lamictal in addition to my antidepressants. Make sure you have your thyroid checked before starting
> any drugs for depression and bipolar disorders. I hope this info helps.
>
> LauraLaura, what is Lamictal?
Posted by polarbear206 on August 24, 2002, at 10:37:27
In reply to Re: PMDD-sarafem disaster, posted by Tuck on August 24, 2002, at 8:58:30
> > > I have been reading through these messages all day hoping I have found some answers. I am at my whits end. I have three kids, am 34 years old and have been miserable for the last year and a half. Prior to that I was either pregnant or on the pill. Since then I have always suffered my worst pms the week after my period. (the moodiness part of it anyways) The uncontrollable eating is the week before. I went to the doctor with a card that I had torn out of a magazine about Sarafem. He (who is always in a hurry) gave me some samples to try and hurried me out of his office. This was in Feb. 2001. I took the Sarafem for not even a week and had a herrible reaction to it. It was the 2nd week in Feb. and I was driving to the mall with my 2 year old. I felt like I was going to pass out, sort of. Like I couldn't concentrate on driving. I had a hard time speaking and basically felt really out of it. Well the whole thing was chalked up to side effects of the drug and I quit taking it obviously! But, I still have the same problems around the middle of the month.(2 weeks into my cycle) I have to have someone drive me places, I feel like I am spacing out....
> > > This has been going on for a year and a half now and I don't think a weeks worth of Sarafem can mess you up that bad, but now that I read some of the other messages about concentration and driving I am wondering if I do have PMDD. I didn't think I needed the Sarafem for the depression. I have a great hubby and kids and I am not at all depressed. Confused maybe! I have been to many doctors. I have had an EEG of the brain and a MRI done, both were read as normal. My big thing is that these spells (so to speak) are always in the middle of the month......
> > > If anyone out there has any info. I would love to hear it!!!!
> > > Kathy
> >
> >
> > Kathy,
> >
> > You could have an underlying mood disorder, I had
> > some of the same problems starting mid cycle. Confusion, lethargy, concentration problems. some antidepressants can exacerbate underlying mood disorders. Prozac and sarafem are the same drug. I couldn't take prozac at all. The week after my period was worse also until I started taking Lamictal in addition to my antidepressants. Make sure you have your thyroid checked before starting
> > any drugs for depression and bipolar disorders. I hope this info helps.
> >
> > Laura
>
> Laura, what is Lamictal?
>
>
Kathy,Lamictal is a mood stabilizer used to treat bipolar disorders. Many anticonvulsants are used for bipolars. What is so great about this drug is that it acts as a mood stabilizer/antidepressant. It is also being used for severe pmdd. pmdd and bipolar mood disorders mimmick each other as far as some of their symptoms. So pmdd can look like bipolar and bipolar can look like pmdd. This can be very confusing for a proper diagnosis. Track you moods with a calandar every month. Write down what symptoms you are experiencing. You need to see a psychiatrist and not your regular primary care doctor.
Laura.
Posted by Thump on September 30, 2002, at 9:21:00
In reply to Re: PMDD-sarafem disaster, posted by Tuck on August 24, 2002, at 8:32:04
> > Hey..decribe what happens...and prozac is an AD and not an antianxity med..PMDD is a very serious thing...and depression is a huge part..Weird head brain thing?...have you seen a neurologist??
>
> I am seeing a neurologist on Monday. Although, my EEG and my MRI have came back normal. When I am having one of my middle of the month hardships it is like I am out of it. My head feels like it is not attached. When I am driving it freaks me out because I can't concentrate on the road. I get real warm and usually fan myself and sometimes feel a little neauseated. I try to blink to clear my head and I always have a headache in the back of my head. Which is followed by a few days of a bad headache. Then the next week I feel completely like myself again. Until that is, I get bitchy because it is pms time!!! Every other blood test I have had (including thyroid) has came back normal. Except for an ANA test that for me is always elevated.
> These things that I have at the middle of the month have gotten so bad that I call my husband or my mom to come over. I have never lost consiousness during one though...
>
>Those symptoms sound like they may be related to a little blood sugar problem, perhaps a hypoglycemic episode. My blood sugar gets a little more difficult to keep in check during PMS for whatever reason. However, I have been tested and do not have diabetes. It's not that severe. It can cause me to have hot flashes, get nauseated, dizzy, get the shakes, lose concentration, get headaches and generally feel like I'm having some kind of out-of-body experience. It's not fun. I can also get beligerant and irrational if I do not eat something and get it leveled out quickly. Try eating several small meals a day during that time. Don't let yourself skip breakfast or get overly hungry and see if that helps. Also, I was prescribed Sarafem for PMDD and it has really worked well for me. For the first week I felt a little "dopey" and I didn't drive either. I could just tell that wouldn't be a good idea. But those symptoms are gone now and I am just starting my third week with it. So far so good. I'm feeling like my old normal self again.
Posted by erica on November 11, 2002, at 22:13:09
In reply to Re: PMDD - Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, posted by shia on February 21, 2002, at 16:31:07
there are great new PMDD meds: Celexa and Lexapro (they are enantiomers.) They are practically devoid of side effects. I've been using Celexa for about 6 months for PMDD and have found it to relieve most of my symptoms. I'm changing to Lexapro to try and totally eliminate ALL the minor side effects (remember, they are enantiomers.) To treat the adult PMS related acne, however, I think I'll try low-dose spironolactone...
Posted by Purrkitty on April 7, 2003, at 13:52:21
In reply to PMDD - Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, posted by Jan on March 1, 1999, at 10:54:47
I am 34 and have been diagnosed with PMDD almost 2 summers ago. I have been taking Sarafem, which has been working well.
Posted by pmddmom on June 25, 2003, at 22:44:52
In reply to Re: I'm scared, posted by Emily B. on March 29, 2001, at 23:07:23
Just wanted to add that I am someone who has suffered from pmdd for 20 years. It used to be one week before my period. Over time, it got longer and more intense so that finally it was 2 weeks out of the month. And I not only felt depressed and irritable, I also felt rageful and miserable. I tried taking Sarafem last year, but just for the 2 weeks before my period. All I felt were side effects and none of the positive effects. Now I am a mother and have even less time to put my life on hold 2 weeks out of the month. Plus, my monthly rages and depressions were beginning to threaten my marriage and preventing me from being the mother I so wanted to be. So I talked to my current gynecologist about my situation. He told me that Sarafem doesn't work when taken only for 2 weeks out of the month because it takes 2 weeks for the side effects to diminish and the positive effects to take hold. So, in essence, all I ever experienced were side effects without the relief. So I decided to give Sarafem another chance. Mostly because I was desperate. I had tried all the "natural" remedies, such as B-12, low-sodium diet, no alcohol, no caffeine, etc. But nothing really made me feel better, because the real culprit was a lower concentration of seratonin. And the problem only worsens with age and after pregnancies. After 3 months of taking 20 mg. of Sarafem daily, I am a new person. I feel like a "normal" person. I spent my entire young life just accepting that I would always have to plan my life around my period. It was an amazing experience to go on vacation with my in-laws, during the thick of my pms and have a wonderful time. I kept waiting to feel exasperated, annoyed, even rageful. And it never happened. I am a better wife, a better mother, a better friend, and a better person because of Sarafem. I know I sound like a commercial, but after suffering for 2 decades, I feel like I'm finally able to live a happy, normal life. I can't recommend it enough. It's tragic that shame and fear keep us from getting treatment. But it should give you hope to know that it's out there. Any any gynecologist you go to should know about this because the AMA recently sent out a memo to all gynos to tell them that Sarafem is indicated for pmdd, along with guidelines for diagnosing it. As for sideeffects, I do feel more tired some of the time. And I have noticed that I have less interest in sex, but I'm certainly not anorgasmic. I still have great sex with my husband, it just takes a little longer for me to orgasm. But my husband is more than happy to be patient with me. After all, without the Sarafem, we had a guaranteed fight once a month, which meant no sex anyway :) And as for being tired, I was much worse off when I was depressed 1/2 the month. Anyway, that's my story. I hope it helps someone.
Posted by mel32 on June 27, 2003, at 21:53:30
In reply to pmdd » Emily B., posted by pmddmom on June 25, 2003, at 22:44:52
I think I have PMDD. I am a raging lunatic 2 weeks before my period. I am 32 and I have a 5 year old son. I have had PMS as long as i can remember, but it has definitely gotten worse since marriage and childbirth. I was wondering if anyone out there has similar symptoms; I feel extreme rage, depression and hopelessness 2 weeks before period. The rage is very scary to me. This past month I was physically abusive to my husband, and I felt completely out of control. I didn't actually hurt him, but I threw things at him that could have injured him. I literally was like The Hulk , in that it felt like I was possessed, and only exhaustion would free me of the rage I felt. Please let me know if you have any similar horror stories. Depression is also a huge thing for me, but I could handle that more than my craziness being directed at someone else. Even though I've felt suicidal many times, I know that eventually, it will pass. Please write!
Posted by pmddmom on June 30, 2003, at 19:52:24
In reply to Re: pmdd, posted by mel32 on June 27, 2003, at 21:53:30
Just wanted to say that I completely relate. I, too, am 32 years old. I have a son, who's 11 months old, and I have suffered from pmdd for many years. What you are experiencing is exactly what I have struggled with for 20 years now. But, like you, it became much worse with marriage and childbirth. For me, taking Sarafem, which is a low dose of prozac, has given me great relief during those 2 weeks prior to my period. I still feel a little down and little bit more touchy the week before my period. But it is mild and manageable. Before that, I would fly into rages and scream at my husband and baby. I felt such intense rage that I felt like I hated my husband 2 weeks out of the month and then spent the other 2 weeks feeling guilty for how I had treated him. I still try to get a lot of female support, take long walks, deep breathe, exercise and eat right. But none of those things helped before I started the medication. My brain chemistry was just too imbalanced during that time of the month. Now i feel much more stable and balanced. But I still feel like myself. I hate to think of what my life might have been like if i hadn't found this treatment. It can't hurt to ask your doctor about it.
Posted by Edgefield on September 3, 2003, at 19:28:50
In reply to Re: pmdd, posted by pmddmom on June 30, 2003, at 19:52:24
I just found this thread after doing a search for PMDD support group. I was diagnosed with PMDD several years ago, and since that time I've also been diagnosed with anxiety disorder. Like so many other women, all of this started after I had my first child. Prior to giving birth I would breeze through the months :)
I know that many women have found relief with Sarafem, but I can not tolerate SSRIs. I'm presently taking Wellbutrin SR. I would like to hear from others who are dealing with PMDD, and especially those who have found relief.
Thanks alot!
Edgefield
> Just wanted to say that I completely relate. I, too, am 32 years old. I have a son, who's 11 months old, and I have suffered from pmdd for many years. What you are experiencing is exactly what I have struggled with for 20 years now. But, like you, it became much worse with marriage and childbirth. For me, taking Sarafem, which is a low dose of prozac, has given me great relief during those 2 weeks prior to my period. I still feel a little down and little bit more touchy the week before my period. But it is mild and manageable. Before that, I would fly into rages and scream at my husband and baby. I felt such intense rage that I felt like I hated my husband 2 weeks out of the month and then spent the other 2 weeks feeling guilty for how I had treated him. I still try to get a lot of female support, take long walks, deep breathe, exercise and eat right. But none of those things helped before I started the medication. My brain chemistry was just too imbalanced during that time of the month. Now i feel much more stable and balanced. But I still feel like myself. I hate to think of what my life might have been like if i hadn't found this treatment. It can't hurt to ask your doctor about it.
Posted by Tuck on September 4, 2003, at 12:58:28
In reply to Re: pmdd, posted by Edgefield on September 3, 2003, at 19:28:50
I just happened to read the post from Edgefield. I posted the sarafem disater message a year ago. The anxiety issue is what grabbed my attention in your post. That was the last straw for me. I am an always in control person and the anxiety was driving me nuts (for lack of a better phrase)!!!! I checked out a ton of material at the library and read everything there is to know about anxiety and panic attacks. Once you let your body get away with it once it takes over as your coping mechinism.(sp?) I am feeling 99% better as of now a year later. I went off all percription drugs and am now taking Estroven every night and take calcium and magnesium every morning. I have learnt how to do the deep diaphram breathing and try my best to stay on top of things during that time of the month. I basically have decided that I am to young and have too many people (hubby and three kids)depending on me to have the luxury of saying "sorry I can't do this or that my anxiety is bothering me today!!!! Because I know it can get to be a crutch, I used it all last winter as one... The way I now look at it is, if your not on the pill or pregnant you are at the mercy of your hormones and probably will be until after menopause.
Post back if you have any interest in the vitamins and herbs that I have found effective. Or if you just want to unload.... I know how you feel...
Posted by ELENI4 on September 5, 2003, at 20:10:22
In reply to Re: PMDD - Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, posted by erica on November 11, 2002, at 22:13:09
> there are great new PMDD meds: Celexa and Lexapro (they are enantiomers.) They are practically devoid of side effects. I've been using Celexa for about 6 months for PMDD and have found it to relieve most of my symptoms. I'm changing to Lexapro to try and totally eliminate ALL the minor side effects (remember, they are enantiomers.) To treat the adult PMS related acne, however, I think I'll try low-dose spironolactone...
I've tried Prozac, Effexor XR, and now Lexapro. Effexor worked the best but left me with insomnia. However rather than prescribe something to help me sleep, my doctor suggested I try Lexapro...and boy did I have side effects. I slept for 1 1/2 days straight, had palpitations, muscle pain, and muscle twitches that finally started to subside four days after taking my last dose. It was horrible, and I'm currently debating whether to continue taking the drug. I'm glad your experience was so positive. I wish mine wouldn't have been so bad (have heard of other that were even worse)...wouldn't wish it on anyone. I guess it all depends on body chemistry. =(
Posted by nk on September 6, 2003, at 16:06:25
In reply to Re: pmdd » Edgefield, posted by Tuck on September 4, 2003, at 12:58:28
Tuck,
Ever since having my third child 18 months ago, I have had mood swings throughout the month, with the depression and intense anxiety worsening during the luteal phase of my cycle. It started with severe postpartum depression four months after the birth (when I weaned) and it has been an ongoing battle since. I have tried zoloft, lexapro, effexor, strattera, and now my pdoc has me on 50 mg of zoloft and 200 of Lamictal to counteract the mood swings. The Lamictal has done wonders for the depression and the cycling throughout the month but I can't shake this constant anxiety. I don't want to throw in the towel with the Lamictal but like you, I am considering asking my pdoc about estrogen.
A few questions.....do you take estrogen throughout the month or only during the last half of your cycle? Also, everything I have read indicates that you also need progesterone if you are taking estrogen. My problem is that I have tried synthetic progesterone (in Yasmin) and have even tried natural progesterone cream but both sent me back into a depression.
If you can give me the run-down on what you are taking, dosages, etc., I would greatly appreciate it. I am glad you are feeling better and I hope I can get to the same place someday since I also have three kids and a full-time career to contend with. My focus needs to be on them, not on my raging hormones.
Thanks,
Nicole :)
Posted by Edgefield on September 7, 2003, at 16:57:44
In reply to Re: pmdd » Edgefield, posted by Tuck on September 4, 2003, at 12:58:28
Tuck it is good to hear from you, especially to hear that you are doing well!!! Yes, please share what herbs, vitamins, and prescription meds. that helped you.
I have an appointment to see my dr. next Wednesday and I would like to discuss trying progesterone. I've read positive and negative things about the use of natural progesterone. I surely don't want it to cause more depression, as I've read. I've also heard that some women found relief from anxiety and hormonal issues when they tried progesterone. All of this can be so confusing.
I look forward to hearing from you :)
Edgefield
> I just happened to read the post from Edgefield. I posted the sarafem disater message a year ago. The anxiety issue is what grabbed my attention in your post. That was the last straw for me. I am an always in control person and the anxiety was driving me nuts (for lack of a better phrase)!!!! I checked out a ton of material at the library and read everything there is to know about anxiety and panic attacks. Once you let your body get away with it once it takes over as your coping mechinism.(sp?) I am feeling 99% better as of now a year later. I went off all percription drugs and am now taking Estroven every night and take calcium and magnesium every morning. I have learnt how to do the deep diaphram breathing and try my best to stay on top of things during that time of the month. I basically have decided that I am to young and have too many people (hubby and three kids)depending on me to have the luxury of saying "sorry I can't do this or that my anxiety is bothering me today!!!! Because I know it can get to be a crutch, I used it all last winter as one... The way I now look at it is, if your not on the pill or pregnant you are at the mercy of your hormones and probably will be until after menopause.
> Post back if you have any interest in the vitamins and herbs that I have found effective. Or if you just want to unload.... I know how you feel...
>
Posted by Edgefield on September 7, 2003, at 16:59:48
In reply to Re: pmdd » Edgefield, posted by Tuck on September 4, 2003, at 12:58:28
oops, I meant to ask about the Estroven. Is that a natural estrogen?
Edgefield
> I just happened to read the post from Edgefield. I posted the sarafem disater message a year ago. The anxiety issue is what grabbed my attention in your post. That was the last straw for me. I am an always in control person and the anxiety was driving me nuts (for lack of a better phrase)!!!! I checked out a ton of material at the library and read everything there is to know about anxiety and panic attacks. Once you let your body get away with it once it takes over as your coping mechinism.(sp?) I am feeling 99% better as of now a year later. I went off all percription drugs and am now taking Estroven every night and take calcium and magnesium every morning. I have learnt how to do the deep diaphram breathing and try my best to stay on top of things during that time of the month. I basically have decided that I am to young and have too many people (hubby and three kids)depending on me to have the luxury of saying "sorry I can't do this or that my anxiety is bothering me today!!!! Because I know it can get to be a crutch, I used it all last winter as one... The way I now look at it is, if your not on the pill or pregnant you are at the mercy of your hormones and probably will be until after menopause.
> Post back if you have any interest in the vitamins and herbs that I have found effective. Or if you just want to unload.... I know how you feel...
>
Posted by Tuck on September 8, 2003, at 8:19:35
In reply to Re: pmdd » Tuck, posted by Edgefield on September 7, 2003, at 16:59:48
Edgefield,
Tried to post last night but the site was under construction. The Estroven that I take is a natural form of estrogen. (soybean) I don't have the box in front of me but it has grape seed extract and black knosh (sp?) They have a pretty informative website. I see now they make an extra strengh and a mood and PMS kind also. I haven't tried those. I take about 300mg. of magnesium, at least 500mg. of calcium and 10mg. of zinc. The Estroven also has all of those in it so I get a double dose of them. I take the Estroven in the evening and the vitamins in the morning. This combination works for me I think everyone might be different. Oh, I also drink alot of chamomile tea. I was also getting alot of tension headaches and I know the magnesium is suppose to help that. One thing I heard alot about that I don't agree with is staying away from caffeine. I tried that and it sucked. I drink tea (iced or hot) all day. My Dr. told me that it would help my anxiety to drop caffeine. It didn't work so I am back at it. And I have noticed that my Eccederine for tension headaches and most migrain meds have caffeine in them. So, what ever! I really hope some of this helps you. I myself was just scared to death to be on zoloft.(I made it a week and probably didn't have time to feel any of the affects of it, except being tired all the time and having diareaha) I am very drug sensitive and hate to think about being on a med for the rest of my life. Try the breathing and read some of the anxiety websites. That was enough for me to say "I am not going to be like that!"
I have never experimented with progestron. Thought about it and read about it but didn't get very far.
Is it possible for you to go on the pill? That usually helps alot. I couldn't and didn't need to. I already have clotting problems and my husband had a vas.
Let me know I hope some of this helps.
tuck
Posted by phoeb on September 10, 2003, at 16:45:51
In reply to Re: pmdd, posted by mel32 on June 27, 2003, at 21:53:30
After trying everything else I was recently successfully treated for a 9-month severe major depression with nardil (an MAOI). Soon after the depression was taken care of I developed PMDD. I don't get irritable but I cry hysterically, scream from the mental agony and anxiety, have images of cutting up my body with a knife, want to die, etc.This happens for 8-14 days with 3 weeks of relief between episodes. I can't stand it. Problem is, I'm on MAOI so I can't take SSRIs...First, anyone experience symptoms like these? Second, any suggestions for treatments that don't involve SSRI's? I'm willing to do anything, as I live in fear of those periods of sheer horror. Please write back, I'm desperate!
Posted by Mel32 on September 10, 2003, at 18:32:35
In reply to Re: pmdd, posted by phoeb on September 10, 2003, at 16:45:51
Hey! Do you eat a lot of sugar or drink a lot of caffeine? Some people are very sensitive to these, and they can really mess with your calcium and magnesium levels. Sodas are pretty bad too. The phosphoric acid in them leeches calcium from your system, and I have always read that calcium and magnesium levels decrease tremendously before your period already, so the sodas would make it extra tough on your body. Also, I have found that when I chart my period, I am more aware of what mood to expect, and I constantly remind myself during that time, that it is just hormones. My husband has found this extremely helpful too! However, some months can be extremely difficult, and I border on psychotic. At the first sign of a tough month, usually 2 weeks before my period, I start taking zoloft, and it gets me through. Exercise helps too, although it is hard to do if you are already depressed. At least you have one thing taken care of! Good luck!
Posted by jovigurl on December 10, 2003, at 15:00:35
In reply to Re: pmdd, posted by mel32 on June 27, 2003, at 21:53:30
> I think I have PMDD. I am a raging lunatic 2 weeks before my period. I am 32 and I have a 5 year old son. I have had PMS as long as i can remember, but it has definitely gotten worse since marriage and childbirth. I was wondering if anyone out there has similar symptoms; I feel extreme rage, depression and hopelessness 2 weeks before period. The rage is very scary to me. This past month I was physically abusive to my husband, and I felt completely out of control. I didn't actually hurt him, but I threw things at him that could have injured him. I literally was like The Hulk , in that it felt like I was possessed, and only exhaustion would free me of the rage I felt. Please let me know if you have any similar horror stories. Depression is also a huge thing for me, but I could handle that more than my craziness being directed at someone else. Even though I've felt suicidal many times, I know that eventually, it will pass. Please write!
>>>Wow!!! I know I am about 6 months late in posting.. but I just found this site! You sound EXACTLY like me!!! I've always had PMS but after kids, everyday stress, etc. it just got worse.. You are correct - the only relief I felt was the intense rage - letting it all out! However, I was getting scared - i was becoming abusive to my husband and my kids..the rage would build inside me until it was literally a blind rage - i could quite literally see red in my eyes! This was usually the 2 weeks prior to my period.. My husband told me for years - he loved me 2 weeks out of the month, and couldn't live with me the other 2...We are young too - H.S. Sweethearts and have been together for 19 years now..he's 38 and I'm 36.. I finally sought help from my doctor.. I couldn't live with this one minute longer - i was depressed, hated life, thought about killing myself - sometimes about killing my husband or kids - i was starting to hate them! My husband was threatening to leave and I couldn't imagine my life without him. - We aren't just husband and wife, but best friends and soulmates. I even told him when he left to take the "damn kids" with him because I didn't want them! Ugh! How could I BE LIKE THIS??
So - the doctor put me on 20mg of sarafem, and loestrin - to try to balance my hormones (we don't need birth control - he had a vasectomy)I was a zombie for 2 weeks.. I couldn't take this either! So doc changed me to 10mg of sarafem. I would like to share that my life has turned around 200%!
I do suffer from upset stomach as a side effect. And, although sexual interest is decreased, my husband can usually change my mind.. :)
I take the sarafem for 2 1/2 to 3 weeks out of the month.. I stop taking it a few days after I get my period. This seems to give me a break from the stomach ailments..
Luckily, I'm not too bad with side effects. I do occasionally get anxiety attacks... I don't know if this is a side effect, or just me..
THANK GOD I'm not the only person who felt this way!!
Posted by Mel32 on December 10, 2003, at 19:38:59
In reply to Re: pmdd, posted by jovigurl on December 10, 2003, at 15:00:35
> > I think I have PMDD. I am a raging lunatic 2 weeks before my period. I am 32 and I have a 5 year old son. I have had PMS as long as i can remember, but it has definitely gotten worse since marriage and childbirth. I was wondering if anyone out there has similar symptoms; I feel extreme rage, depression and hopelessness 2 weeks before period. The rage is very scary to me. This past month I was physically abusive to my husband, and I felt completely out of control. I didn't actually hurt him, but I threw things at him that could have injured him. I literally was like The Hulk , in that it felt like I was possessed, and only exhaustion would free me of the rage I felt. Please let me know if you have any similar horror stories. Depression is also a huge thing for me, but I could handle that more than my craziness being directed at someone else. Even though I've felt suicidal many times, I know that eventually, it will pass. Please write!
>
>
>
> >>>Wow!!! I know I am about 6 months late in posting.. but I just found this site! You sound EXACTLY like me!!! I've always had PMS but after kids, everyday stress, etc. it just got worse.. You are correct - the only relief I felt was the intense rage - letting it all out! However, I was getting scared - i was becoming abusive to my husband and my kids..the rage would build inside me until it was literally a blind rage - i could quite literally see red in my eyes! This was usually the 2 weeks prior to my period.. My husband told me for years - he loved me 2 weeks out of the month, and couldn't live with me the other 2...We are young too - H.S. Sweethearts and have been together for 19 years now..he's 38 and I'm 36.. I finally sought help from my doctor.. I couldn't live with this one minute longer - i was depressed, hated life, thought about killing myself - sometimes about killing my husband or kids - i was starting to hate them! My husband was threatening to leave and I couldn't imagine my life without him. - We aren't just husband and wife, but best friends and soulmates. I even told him when he left to take the "damn kids" with him because I didn't want them! Ugh! How could I BE LIKE THIS??
>
> So - the doctor put me on 20mg of sarafem, and loestrin - to try to balance my hormones (we don't need birth control - he had a vasectomy)I was a zombie for 2 weeks.. I couldn't take this either! So doc changed me to 10mg of sarafem. I would like to share that my life has turned around 200%!
>
> I do suffer from upset stomach as a side effect. And, although sexual interest is decreased, my husband can usually change my mind.. :)
>
> I take the sarafem for 2 1/2 to 3 weeks out of the month.. I stop taking it a few days after I get my period. This seems to give me a break from the stomach ailments..
>
> Luckily, I'm not too bad with side effects. I do occasionally get anxiety attacks... I don't know if this is a side effect, or just me..
>
> THANK GOD I'm not the only person who felt this way!!
>
> Hey! I am glad to hear that you are feeling better. I am on my 5th week of lexapro, and am doing great. I don't particularly like sweating like a man, but it is better than the alternative! My OB tried me on Yasmin birth control pill first, but I felt suicidal after being on it only 5 days, and that was during my good two weeks! So the lexapro started working right away, which was great, but I don't like taking this stuff and wonder if I will have to be on it the rest of my life! I was wondering if you saw DR.Phil today-it was all about hormones and PMS, and they had a PMS specialist on that said PMS is caused by high estrogen, low progesterone. She said that there are natural progesterone suppositories that can be prescribed by an MD that specializes in PMS, that will alleviate around 150 symtoms of PMS. She also said that low progesterone can cause transient hypoglycemia in women which contributes alot to mood swings, and that in addition to the progesterone suppositories 2x a day, we should also eat every 3 hours, protein and complex carbs. Wow, that was a mouthfull, but has anybody tried this or heard of any success with this? Jovigurl-let me know if you sre interested in emailing each other. I would be. Thanks! mel
Posted by jovigurl on December 11, 2003, at 15:07:40
In reply to Re: pmdd » jovigurl, posted by Mel32 on December 10, 2003, at 19:38:59
Hey Mel!!
I would definitely like to email each other..Its amazing that after living like that for so many years, I'm not the only person out there who suffered too! Glad I finally saw the doc - before it was too late! This medicine has been a godsend for me!
Glad you're liking Lexapro - I'm wondering if I should try to switch? Maybe it would rid me of the stomach side effects from Sarafem?? I'm willing to live with an upset stomach because the alternative was a living hell - but I would like to live without the upset stomach if possible!
I have tried to take just the loestrin - and not the sarafem..but its just not enough..I'm a little more leveled out..but still snap..and go ballistic at times.. ugh!
So - I do take some "time off" from Sarafem.. I give myself a month or two without it, then when things start to get bad (but not too bad) I start up again..I'm not big on being on meds forever - but hey - its better than the alternative!!
Just a side note on Lexapro - my husband has been diagnosed with depression...we went thru some rough times - he always blamed me..I knew better because I had been doing Sarafem for almost a year. I told him it was time to take a hard look at himself instead of blaming me for everything.. Anyway, long story short, he is now on his 4th week of Lexapro and my "6 times a week and 2 times on Sunday man" now has sexual dysfunction problems.. We hoped they would go away after a few weeks, as I've seen reading some posts here..but its been a month..his drive is pretty much gone..usually can't achieve a full erection, let alone climax. We're off to the doc tomorrow to see about switching meds. I'm not sure about reducing the Lex - he's only on 10mg per day.
We also tried him not taking it for 2 days - but that didn't work either. So much for the lessened side effect! But - of course every person is different, and meds affect everyone differently too - so something else may work much better for him. I've seen on here that people stop taking it for this reason..Tough decision for a man to make...Emotionally he is so much better now until it comes to the sex part - then he questions himself, and doubts if the meds are worth it..We're hopeful that time and/or a new med can help this situation - I'm worried this might depress him even more!
Jovigurl
Posted by kaitlyn on December 24, 2003, at 3:10:05
In reply to Re: pmdd » jovigurl, posted by Mel32 on December 10, 2003, at 19:38:59
> > > I think I have PMDD. I am a raging lunatic 2 weeks before my period. I am 32 and I have a 5 year old son. I have had PMS as long as i can remember, but it has definitely gotten worse since marriage and childbirth. I was wondering if anyone out there has similar symptoms; I feel extreme rage, depression and hopelessness 2 weeks before period. The rage is very scary to me. This past month I was physically abusive to my husband, and I felt completely out of control. I didn't actually hurt him, but I threw things at him that could have injured him. I literally was like The Hulk , in that it felt like I was possessed, and only exhaustion would free me of the rage I felt. Please let me know if you have any similar horror stories. Depression is also a huge thing for me, but I could handle that more than my craziness being directed at someone else. Even though I've felt suicidal many times, I know that eventually, it will pass. Please write!
> > I am on Lupron for six months to determine if surgery (ovary and uterine removal) is an option for me. I am 34 and have tried all methods to control my PMDD. This option is not for everyone, because the drug suppresses estrogen and could possibly cause some bone loss when used over six months without adding back hormones, plus is an extremely expensive drug. If you can't tolerate side effects from the SSRI's , there are mood stabilizers and other drugs to try.>>>>>> So far the Lupron has COMPLETELY CURED MY PMDD>>>>
> >
> >
> > >>>Wow!!! I know I am about 6 months late in posting.. but I just found this site! You sound EXACTLY like me!!! I've always had PMS but after kids, everyday stress, etc. it just got worse.. You are correct - the only relief I felt was the intense rage - letting it all out! However, I was getting scared - i was becoming abusive to my husband and my kids..the rage would build inside me until it was literally a blind rage - i could quite literally see red in my eyes! This was usually the 2 weeks prior to my period.. My husband told me for years - he loved me 2 weeks out of the month, and couldn't live with me the other 2...We are young too - H.S. Sweethearts and have been together for 19 years now..he's 38 and I'm 36.. I finally sought help from my doctor.. I couldn't live with this one minute longer - i was depressed, hated life, thought about killing myself - sometimes about killing my husband or kids - i was starting to hate them! My husband was threatening to leave and I couldn't imagine my life without him. - We aren't just husband and wife, but best friends and soulmates. I even told him when he left to take the "damn kids" with him because I didn't want them! Ugh! How could I BE LIKE THIS??
> >
> > So - the doctor put me on 20mg of sarafem, and loestrin - to try to balance my hormones (we don't need birth control - he had a vasectomy)I was a zombie for 2 weeks.. I couldn't take this either! So doc changed me to 10mg of sarafem. I would like to share that my life has turned around 200%!
> >
> > I do suffer from upset stomach as a side effect. And, although sexual interest is decreased, my husband can usually change my mind.. :)
> >
> > I take the sarafem for 2 1/2 to 3 weeks out of the month.. I stop taking it a few days after I get my period. This seems to give me a break from the stomach ailments..
> >
> > Luckily, I'm not too bad with side effects. I do occasionally get anxiety attacks... I don't know if this is a side effect, or just me..
> >
> > THANK GOD I'm not the only person who felt this way!!
> >
> > Hey! I am glad to hear that you are feeling better. I am on my 5th week of lexapro, and am doing great. I don't particularly like sweating like a man, but it is better than the alternative! My OB tried me on Yasmin birth control pill first, but I felt suicidal after being on it only 5 days, and that was during my good two weeks! So the lexapro started working right away, which was great, but I don't like taking this stuff and wonder if I will have to be on it the rest of my life! I was wondering if you saw DR.Phil today-it was all about hormones and PMS, and they had a PMS specialist on that said PMS is caused by high estrogen, low progesterone. She said that there are natural progesterone suppositories that can be prescribed by an MD that specializes in PMS, that will alleviate around 150 symtoms of PMS. She also said that low progesterone can cause transient hypoglycemia in women which contributes alot to mood swings, and that in addition to the progesterone suppositories 2x a day, we should also eat every 3 hours, protein and complex carbs. Wow, that was a mouthfull, but has anybody tried this or heard of any success with this? Jovigurl-let me know if you sre interested in emailing each other. I would be. Thanks! mel
>
Posted by Heather Hall on December 26, 2003, at 12:49:20
In reply to Re: pmdd » Mel32, posted by kaitlyn on December 24, 2003, at 3:10:05
I am still raging. I also have persistent fatigue. This is my first post, but I have tried so many things, I need new ideas.
I have tested hormone levels several times, thyroid including all the individual levels, Epstein-Barr, Lupus, I think that's everything.
The Epstein-Barr was a mild positive, but from what I gather that can be the case with a good percentage of otherwise seemingly healthy people. All the others were within normal.
I have had years and years of therapy, I have tried birth control and SSRIs many types, many times. Mood stabilizers too. I had either no reaction or very bad reactions to those - especially BuSpar and Nuva Ring.
I ended up hospitalized for PPD after my second child. They insisted I was Bipolar, but I disagree. I have since again tried the entire alphabet of SSRIs and their friends. I also tried progesterone cream, and recently Prometrium ( natural progesterone in a pill - stronger)
I have had some short lived promising results from several things, but I think at this point I just want it to work so badly that it does for a little while.
I did have some good results with 3600mg of magnesium daily for awhile, but that is an incredibly high dosage, and expensive - for the good quality chelates that don't keep you in the bathroom. Besides, that's *15* capsules a day, just for that! The person who 'prescribed' it to me turned out to be an unreliable care provider, She was great until she fell off the wagon and I found out she had quite a colorful history of addiction before I met her. Broke my heart.I exercise 2-3 times a week, I eat mostly organic, I eat a variety of whole grains - not much wheat because my kids are intolerant, I can not tolerate soy. I lost my taste for fruit when I was pregnant with my 2nd child. Oh! This is significant - I had my gallbladder removed at 28 weeks pregnant. I was pretty sick. I could only eat hummous without having an attack.
We drink raw milk so I get lots of good enzymes and healthy fats from that. I eat nuts, lots of beans. We get really high quality meat, sometimes straight from the farm. I have a nutrition education background because I teach natural childbirth classes and attend births professionally. I want to be a midwife, but I have to sort out this problem first!What am I missing? What haven't I tried?
Posted by LynneDa on December 29, 2003, at 13:55:59
In reply to Re: pmdd » Mel32, posted by kaitlyn on December 24, 2003, at 3:10:05
WOW! How did I miss these posts in the past! Everything all of you have said is totally me as well. I'm 40 and have been this way for about 3 or 4 years with it worsening every year. I'm in a 2nd marriage with my 7 year old and his (very wonderful,luckily) 9 & 11 year olds. I finally went to my OB/GYN and was diagnosed with PMDD and dysthymia (sp?). I was put on Sarafem, hated it, waited a year and finally went on Lexapro in Oct. 2003. It has helped a lot, but still have symptoms - worse the 2 weeks prior to period. So, I was just upped to 20 mg. this week.
My therapist had surgery to remove everything (she's 43) and is feeling wonderful, symptom-free for the first time in 10 years. It's pretty severe to do that, but it worked for her.
Heather or Mel (I lost track of whose post was whose!) , it sounds like you are doing everything right. I wish I had something to add, except I feel your pain :-). Have you checked out the alternative part of this web site? There may be more answers there.
I am so tired of either feeling numb/tired, angry, sad/suicidal and overall hopeless and incompetent. I can tell when it's my hormones and not just me. My husband doesn't get it. I know it's not my imagination and I know some of it IS out of my control, thus the meds and therapies and diet changes. I don't have the energy/discipline to make some of the wonderful changes in diet and habits that you have, but hopefully, as the Lex keeps working, I will be able to work on the things that ARE in my control.
Thanks for writing about the progesterone suppositories and possiblity of hypoglycemia. I will talk to my OB/GYN about that. I have been told over the years that it could be an issue for me (not by docs, just friends).
Good luck to all of you facing PMDD, it's surely not fun . . . looking forward to menopause anyone?!?!?
Happy New Year!
~ Lynne
Posted by Liv on December 29, 2003, at 16:00:56
In reply to PMDD - Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, posted by Jan on March 1, 1999, at 10:54:47
Maybe Insulin Resistance is the cause of PMDD.
Have any of you tried METFORMIN (glucophage)?It has saved my life. I was suffering from extreme PMDD, and a weight gain that was unbelievable. After taking many test that did not show any significant abnormality, trying different pills of different types, I told my MD that I wanted to try metformin. I have PCOS and metformin is being used to treat PCOS. Boy, am I glad I got to try metformin! My life is transformed! In 2 years I have lost 25 lb, but best off all, my mood is totally better. I am a normal person! It is amazing! For me it truly has been a cure.
This summer I went on a long vacation, and did not take my metformin regularly. What a mistake. I went right back to where I had been 2 years ago. It was hell, I had forgotten how BAD PMDD could be. I didn’t think I was going to be able to get through it. But I did and I will never “forget” to take my metformin ever again.
Try it, it may work for some of you. I don’t have any side effects (I like to say that this pill is made for me :-), but I know some people get an upset stomach from metformin. Give it a few months and see if it will cure your PMDD too. It will make me happy if only one of you will benefit from this. Good Luck.
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