![[dr. bob]](/dr-bob-sm.gif)
Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 14 to 38 of 226. Go back in thread:
Posted by SLS on November 17, 2000, at 21:26:41
In reply to Re: PMDD - Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, posted by R.Anne on November 17, 2000, at 20:57:48
Hi.
I'm sorry if I am repeating something already covered, but I really have a hard time reading through entire threads.
I'm sure you all know that Lilly has released a re-packaged and renamed version of Prozac (fluoxetine) named Serafem that is marketed specifically for PMDD.
Has anyone used one of the SSRIs successfully for PMDD?
- Prozac, Serafem = fluoxetine
- Zoloft = sertraline
- Luvox = fluvoxamine
- Celexa = CitalopramHow about Effexor or Nardil?
What is the current first-line treatment for PMDD?
Are these drugs to be taken continually or cyclically?
Again, I apologize if these questions are redundant.
- Scott
Posted by Doug Anderson on November 18, 2000, at 11:36:58
In reply to Re: PMDD - Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, posted by R.Anne on November 17, 2000, at 20:57:48
> I think that's great that you are patient, loving and supportive toward your partner. She surely will thrive with someone like you!
Thanks R.Anne, when you love someone you do all you can. I don't know if I could deal with this if it was happening to me. She is the strong one. Doug
> ******
> > It seems to me that each case is so different that there is not one difinitive solution. Some may find benefit in diet and exercise. Some with this plus hormone replacement therapy. The one common thread is that love, patience and support from a partner can play a crucial role in helping to control this disorder. Guys; don't give up on the one you love. Be as strong as you can be. Thanks to Cal and his wife for giving me the strength to fight the good fight for the one I love. Doug
Posted by Doug Anderson on November 18, 2000, at 11:47:22
In reply to Re: PMDD - Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, posted by SLS on November 17, 2000, at 21:26:41
> Hi.
>
> I'm sorry if I am repeating something already covered, but I really have a hard time reading through entire threads.
>
> I'm sure you all know that Lilly has released a re-packaged and renamed version of Prozac (fluoxetine) named Serafem that is marketed specifically for PMDD.
>
> Has anyone used one of the SSRIs successfully for PMDD?
>
> - Prozac, Serafem = fluoxetine
> - Zoloft = sertraline
> - Luvox = fluvoxamine
> - Celexa = Citalopram
>
> How about Effexor or Nardil?
>
> What is the current first-line treatment for PMDD?
>
> Are these drugs to be taken continually or cyclically?
>
> Again, I apologize if these questions are redundant.
>
>
> - Scott
Dear Scott,
Diet and exercise are the first line of treatment. Some use hormone replacement such as progesterone gel. The ssri's are a drastic step. They can cause more depression and decrease sexual response. These drugs are used for bipolar disorder and carry a stigma too. That can be psychologically detrimental. Look to natures way first. Love and patience are primary .Plan diet and exercise together along with other activities around her cycle. Saying I love you every day, even if she is at her worst will show support. She will feel better about herself when she gets back to normal. Again, drugs are the last resort. Good luck. Doug
Posted by SLS on November 18, 2000, at 17:54:47
In reply to Re: PMDD - Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, posted by Doug Anderson on November 18, 2000, at 11:47:22
Dear Doug,
Thanks for responding.
It is refreshing to see an algorithm that does not include drugs.
- Scott
> > Hi.
> >
> > I'm sorry if I am repeating something already covered, but I really have a hard time reading through entire threads.
> >
> > I'm sure you all know that Lilly has released a re-packaged and renamed version of Prozac (fluoxetine) named Serafem that is marketed specifically for PMDD.
> >
> > Has anyone used one of the SSRIs successfully for PMDD?
> >
> > - Prozac, Serafem = fluoxetine
> > - Zoloft = sertraline
> > - Luvox = fluvoxamine
> > - Celexa = Citalopram
> >
> > How about Effexor or Nardil?
> >
> > What is the current first-line treatment for PMDD?
> >
> > Are these drugs to be taken continually or cyclically?
> >
> > Again, I apologize if these questions are redundant.
> >
> >
> > - Scott
> Dear Scott,
> Diet and exercise are the first line of treatment. Some use hormone replacement such as progesterone gel. The ssri's are a drastic step. They can cause more depression and decrease sexual response. These drugs are used for bipolar disorder and carry a stigma too. That can be psychologically detrimental. Look to natures way first. Love and patience are primary .Plan diet and exercise together along with other activities around her cycle. Saying I love you every day, even if she is at her worst will show support. She will feel better about herself when she gets back to normal. Again, drugs are the last resort. Good luck. Doug
Posted by S Howard on November 18, 2000, at 22:37:50
In reply to Re: PMDD - Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, posted by SLS on November 18, 2000, at 17:54:47
I have posted this before but I think it's worth considering: get rid of the period and you get rid of the PMS. This can be accomplished by Norplant or Depro-Provera injections. I have had success with both for many years now... I couldn't imagine going back to having periods and PMS, it's such needless pain. I've heard people say, "It's not right, it's not natural..."
well, tooth decay is natural too, but wouldn't you go to the dentist if you were in pain? Damn Skippy you would, at least I hope you would.
-Gracie
Posted by SLS on November 19, 2000, at 0:48:31
In reply to Re: PMDD - Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, posted by S Howard on November 18, 2000, at 22:37:50
Hi Gracie.
I was hoping that no one would misconstrue my post as being a discouragement of the usage of medication. Because there is such intense focus here on using drugs (natural or synthetic) as treatment, I sometimes worry that some of us develop tunnel-vision. I thought it was nice to be reminded to look around once in a while.Not being a woman, I cannot appreciate the many intricacies of womanhood. I think if I were a woman suffering from a severe premenstrual psychobiological disruption, I would probably opt for treatment using hormones rather than antidepressants.
Without having looked into PMS or PMDD, I don't know if severe cases are always treatable with hormones. Are they?
There is a bunch of other stuff going on in the body and brain of a woman other than the secretion of pituitary and gonadal hormones. I know that the brain has its own timekeepers. In biology, there are so many examples of 28-day metabolic and behavioral cycles, that it is obvious that life on earth evolved under the influences of the lunar cycle. Life developed in the ocean, where the moon has its most obvious effects - the tide. If I am not mistaken, it is within the tidal waters that life evolved. Perhaps there are other cycles located deeper in the nervous system that are independent of the tides of hormones that contribute to PMDD. I don't know.
My questions are:
1. Does abolition of the menstrual cycle always work?
2. If not, why?
3. How often and how well do SSRIs help, and which ones in particular are the most effective?> I have posted this before but I think it's worth considering: get rid of the period and you get rid of the PMS. This can be accomplished by Norplant or Depro-Provera injections. I have had success with both for many years now... I couldn't imagine going back to having periods and PMS, it's such needless pain.
> I've heard people say, "It's not right, it's not natural..."
This is sometimes such a silly argument. Who has come to decide that it is not precisely man's place in nature to use nature to better his own life, and of all else that surrounds him? After all, everything man makes, he makes from what already exists in nature - even those unstable elements that are not produced elsewhere in the universe. Leaf-cutter ants actually culture and harvest their own food. They are fungus farmers. The ants don't eat the leaves. The fungus eats the leaves. The ants eat the fungus. Even worse than that, these same ants make their own herbicide to keep other species of fungi out of their gardens. They encourage the growth a special bacteria on their "chins". These bacteria secrete an antibiotic. Yes, that's right. Leaf-cutter ants have been refining their own antibiotics long before we began to walk upright and accidentally ran into penicillin.
It's not right. Its not natural.
- Scott
Posted by Doug Anderson on November 19, 2000, at 10:24:20
In reply to Re: PMDD - Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, posted by S Howard on November 18, 2000, at 22:37:50
>
> I have posted this before but I think it's worth considering: get rid of the period and you get rid of the PMS. This can be accomplished by Norplant or Depro-Provera injections. I have had success with both for many years now... I couldn't imagine going back to having periods and PMS, it's such needless pain. I've heard people say, "It's not right, it's not natural..."
> well, tooth decay is natural too, but wouldn't you go to the dentist if you were in pain? Damn Skippy you would, at least I hope you would.
> -GracieGracie, Have you had any side effects by ending your cycle such as those seen in menopause. If not, have you seen any side effects worth noting. I would really like to know. Every experience brings me new insight and help to the one I love.
Doug
Posted by pullmarine on November 20, 2000, at 2:26:17
In reply to Re: PMDD - Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, posted by Doug Anderson on November 15, 2000, at 23:55:25
They say you're crazy by Caplan
Posted by Janice1 on November 20, 2000, at 19:42:48
In reply to Re: PMDD - Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, posted by SLS on November 18, 2000, at 17:54:47
hi Scott,
I would qualify for PMDD, but I'm not really looking for another diagnosis since i'm both bipolar and ADHD. Somehow, for me, the severe anxiety at ovulation and severe PMS I'll call it, is linked to both these disorders. My bipolar, like most bipolars, became active at puberty. ONe of my rapid cycling cycles has developed and revolves around my menstral cycle - with a severe depression right after menses.
Anyway, no ADs have helped. No mood stabilizers have had any noticeable affect. Exercise may help a bit. I haven't experimented with diet.
I do get complete relief from all of this from the birth control pill. It works like a dream for me.
>
I hope you're okay Scott. I check up to see how you are doing once in a while. I wish you luck with your new doctor. I still say little prayers for you. Janice
Posted by SLS on November 20, 2000, at 20:39:13
In reply to Scott, posted by Janice1 on November 20, 2000, at 19:42:48
Hi Janice.
Thanks for the warm sentiments. This place can make me feel so good. Very nice.
I didn't know that anxiety was associated with ovulation. How do you experience this anxiety? How long does it last? Is it common? What do you do about it, if anything?
> One of my rapid cycling cycles has developed and revolves around my menstral cycle - with a severe depression right after menses
Isn't this unusual? I am not clear on precisely what the word "menses" means. Does it refer to the onset of menstrual flow (first day) or the entire period?
A lady friend of mine who suffers with a soft bipolar type depression has done well on a combination of Effexor and Wellbutrin. Unfortunately, she still suffers a significant premenstrual depression. In addition, her cycle is irregular. I wonder if there is such a thing as a desychronization between estrogen and progesterone secretions. Her luteal phase is probably truncated.
I have urged her for over a year to speak to one of her doctors about the use of sex hormone therapy for her PMS. It is significant enough for her to miss days at work. She is currently taking birth-control pills, but I don't know what the formulation is. Is the "mini-pill" still popular? There may not be enough estrogen in the preparation she is using.
*** Question: What formulation of birth control pill is best suited for minimizing premenstrual mood fluctuations?
Gosh, what you pretty little girls have to go through to make life worth living for us clueless little boys.
Janice, I hope you are feeling as well as you sound.
I am doing significantly better than I was over the summer. I have recently added Zyprexa to my treatment regime. I am encouraged. But then again, I am so easily encouraged despite my history. I haven't figured out why.
Any input you could provide regarding PMS and hormone therapy would be helpful.
- Scott
Posted by Janice1 on November 22, 2000, at 21:24:15
In reply to Re: Scott, posted by SLS on November 20, 2000, at 20:39:13
> Hi Scott,
>
> I didn't know that anxiety was associated with ovulation. How do you experience this anxiety? How long does it last? Is it common? What do you do about it, if anything?I was also told once by a doctor that anxiety wasn't associated with ovulation. I'm not sure if they know differently now, but I experienced this monthly for 1-3 days (varying in intensity). The anxiety was over nothing usually - just building mountains out of moldhills, and staying up all night doing it. The only way i got rid of it was to go on the birth control pill which prevents a woman from ovulating.
>
> > One of my rapid cycling cycles has developed and revolves around my menstral cycle - with a severe depression right after menses
>
> Isn't this unusual? I am not clear on precisely what the word "menses" means. Does it refer to the onset of menstrual flow (first day) or the entire period?I'm not certain if I used the word correctly either. The depression would usually start on the fifth day after the beginning of my period. And the hypomania would begin right after ovulation, right after experiencing 2 to 3 sleepless nights worrying about silly things.
>
> A lady friend of mine who suffers with a soft bipolar type depression has done well on a combination of Effexor and Wellbutrin. Unfortunately, she still suffers a significant premenstrual depression. In addition, her cycle is irregular. I wonder if there is such a thing as a desychronization between estrogen and progesterone secretions. Her luteal phase is probably truncated.You could put it this way, if her cycle wasn't irregular, I highly doubt she'd have PMS problems.
>
> I have urged her for over a year to speak to one of her doctors about the use of sex hormone therapy for her PMS. It is significant enough for her to miss days at work. She is currently taking birth-control pills, but I don't know what the formulation is. Is the "mini-pill" still popular? There may not be enough estrogen in the preparation she is using.
>
> *** Question: What formulation of birth control pill is best suited for minimizing premenstrual mood fluctuations?I really don't know Scott. I use Cyclen birth control (if that means anything). It's is a common pill and could be the mini-pill you are talking about. I think she should experiment with some other birth control pills under a doctor's supervision - Or get a customized birth control pill.
>
> Gosh, what you pretty little girls have to go through to make life worth living for us clueless little boys.my boyfriend was not clueless about this because I was certainly not pretty around that time of month :+)
>
> Janice, I hope you are feeling as well as you sound.
>
I am Scott. Really great, there is hope. I'm finally just got relief a few months ago at 34 and have been suffering from this garbage since I was 12.> I am doing significantly better than I was over the summer. I have recently added Zyprexa to my treatment regime. I am encouraged. But then again, I am so easily encouraged despite my history. I haven't figured out why.
>
I am very happy for your Scott. Maybe you are an optimistic depressed person Scott. As funny as the term sounds, I'm sure it happens.> Any input you could provide regarding PMS and hormone therapy would be helpful.
>
I really don't see how anything but hormones could really help. Exercise helps me a bit, but by no means is anywhere near the answer for me. I have heard quitting sugar can help significantly, and there is a part of me that believes this - maybe because it's the only thing i haven't tried.Take care of yourself Scott,
your friend, JaniceThere seems to be so much they don't know about how hormones interact with mental illnesses.
Posted by KarenB on November 22, 2000, at 22:36:57
In reply to Re: Scott, posted by Janice1 on November 22, 2000, at 21:24:15
> I was also told once by a doctor that anxiety wasn't associated with ovulation.Ahhhh ha ha ha ha ha. That's a good one!
Janice,
So good to hear from you. I have missed being around all you good people. I've been away - away finding out, from a reliable source this time, that I am not only ADD but Bipolar - well, predominately Bipolar - well, maybe not ADD at all. Maybe just Bipolar. I doubt that but we'll see... I truly think I am both.
It's been a rough road for the past couple of months but I am now regaining my cognitive function and especially my memory that so many chemicals had taken away. I am on one medication - Tegretol for mood stabilization and I am doing better than I have in years, in a shockingly "normal" sort of way.
Back on the subject - PMS almost always throws me into a mixed state, sometimes of frightening proportions. You are right that they just don't know enough about the link between hormones and mental health.
I only wish I could find a doctor who was thinking only half as much as those on this board.
BTW Janice: To WHICH birth control pill do you refer?
Cheers to you all. Howdy, Scott.
Karen
Posted by Anna P. on November 22, 2000, at 23:48:53
In reply to Re: Janice!, posted by KarenB on November 22, 2000, at 22:36:57
>
> > I was also told once by a doctor that anxiety wasn't associated with ovulation.
>
> Ahhhh ha ha ha ha ha. That's a good one!
>
> Janice,
>
> So good to hear from you. I have missed being around all you good people. I've been away - away finding out, from a reliable source this time, that I am not only ADD but Bipolar - well, predominately Bipolar - well, maybe not ADD at all. Maybe just Bipolar. I doubt that but we'll see... I truly think I am both.
>
> It's been a rough road for the past couple of months but I am now regaining my cognitive function and especially my memory that so many chemicals had taken away. I am on one medication - Tegretol for mood stabilization and I am doing better than I have in years, in a shockingly "normal" sort of way.
>
> Back on the subject - PMS almost always throws me into a mixed state, sometimes of frightening proportions. You are right that they just don't know enough about the link between hormones and mental health.
>Hi Karen,
It's so nice to have you back. I was wandering what happened with you.Anna P.
>
Posted by Doug Anderson on November 23, 2000, at 5:33:04
In reply to Re: Janice!, posted by KarenB on November 22, 2000, at 22:36:57
>
> > I was also told once by a doctor that anxiety wasn't associated with ovulation.
>
> Ahhhh ha ha ha ha ha. That's a good one!
>
> Janice,
>
> So good to hear from you. I have missed being around all you good people. I've been away - away finding out, from a reliable source this time, that I am not only ADD but Bipolar - well, predominately Bipolar - well, maybe not ADD at all. Maybe just Bipolar. I doubt that but we'll see... I truly think I am both.
>
> It's been a rough road for the past couple of months but I am now regaining my cognitive function and especially my memory that so many chemicals had taken away. I am on one medication - Tegretol for mood stabilization and I am doing better than I have in years, in a shockingly "normal" sort of way.
>
> Back on the subject - PMS almost always throws me into a mixed state, sometimes of frightening proportions. You are right that they just don't know enough about the link between hormones and mental health.
>
> I only wish I could find a doctor who was thinking only half as much as those on this board.
>
> BTW Janice: To WHICH birth control pill do you refer?
>
> Cheers to you all. Howdy, Scott.
>
> KarenI am lost. The lady that I love suffers from PMDD. The thing is that she won't go for help. Maybe she thinks that there is some other problem. You seem to have this too. I have stood by her for a year and have tried to show her as much information as I can just to get her to a doctor. She has suffered long enough. This has plagued her for 30 years. How do I approach this? She tries things for a while but then gets down and gives up on herself. Then she gives up on me because she does not want to hurt me. She knows she has a problem. She then comes back and asks forgiveness. If I did not love her so much I would not have lasted this long. Who said women are the weaker sex...ha! What an idiot. If men had to deal with these emotional storms we would be institutionalized in a heartbeat. I am physically and emotionally drained. I keep reading and learning more. There really is so little written about this subject and yet it afflicts millions of women. I guess that is because men control the research to to the most part. I will continue to try to help the one I love but any help from you would be greatly appreciated. She is my soul mate and I won't give up until I have a solution. I know this just does not go away completely even with tratment. It will continue to take patience and love on my part even when the storms subside. Well thanx in advance.
Doug
Posted by Janice1 on November 23, 2000, at 22:02:21
In reply to Re: Janice!, posted by KarenB on November 22, 2000, at 22:36:57
Hi KarenI wondered where you were. I was hoping all better, but I'm really glad to hear from you. The funny thing is these two disorders seem to be so related in some indivuals. And, of course, as you know in many ways they can mimic one another - especially if the ADD comes with depression and the bipolar is a milder bipolar II/rapid cycling.
There is so much more to bipolar than just cycling - the high and the low. I am unusual in that I actually experienced pretty clean cycles, but sometimes I wonder how many bipolars actually have cycles they are aware of. How I also experience my bipolar is that i FEEL way TOO much ALWAYS - the good, the bad, and every emotion, every nuance inbetween. I have wildly sensitive senses, and am a senstive individual in pretty much every way i could think of describing an individual.
Karen if you are looking for your cycles, I have 4 different cycles (not just one) that my mood would rotate on. So it would take a lifting of all 4 to give me my greatest high, and the lowering of all 3 or 4 to keep in bed for a few days.
AS for that PMS, did you know severe PMS is also associated with both bipolar and ADD. I'm on cyclen birth control. I think it's an extremely common one here in Canada.
Gotta go, So good to hear from you. I hope you figure this out. Janice
Posted by KarenB on November 24, 2000, at 11:13:05
In reply to Re: Janice!, posted by Doug Anderson on November 23, 2000, at 5:33:04
Doug,
It is good of you to hang in there with her - I think. If she refuses to seek help, however, it is time to make decisions for yourself that are right and healthy. If she is abusive AND refuses to seek help, well, I hope you would know what to do. First, though, ask her to get help when she is not in an irrational, proud, "I'm perfectly fine" state of mind. I am assuming you are not married (?)
I would strongly suggest that she seek a consultation with a mood disorder specialist like Dr. Steven Dobovsky here in Denver, to find out just what is really going on with her. I am not talking about just any psychiatrist. It may be a mood disorder and not only PMS or PMDD (PMS from hell). She may find that a mood stabilizer may just change her life. If she is bipolar, Prozac will not.
I can't tell you how many years I thought I just had REALLY BAD PMS, only to find that my mood swings were not corresponding with my cycle or menses - they were just considerably WORSE from ovulation straight through my period. I have tried every natural herb you can imagine, every tea. Exercise, diet restrictions, you name it. Over the years my cycles of insanity simply got closer together, until it was one fast and scary roller coaster ride.
Since I have been on Tegretol (almost two months) I have gone through a complete cycle without becoming Mrs. Hyde or contemplating suicide. This could be kind of a miracle but I'll give it some more time before I make a judgment. I too have gotten my hopes up more times than I can count, only to be dissappointed. That's not what I am expecting this time, though. I think this time, it may just be for real. I am always hopeful.
Too bad that the docs can't fulfill my request for some kind of permanent euphoric hypomania. Oh well...
Hi back to you, Anna and Janice!
Karen
Posted by Jacki on November 24, 2000, at 15:14:29
In reply to Re: Janice!, posted by Doug Anderson on November 23, 2000, at 5:33:04
> I am lost. The lady that I love suffers from PMDD. The thing is that she won't go for help. Maybe she thinks that there is some other problem. You seem to have this too. I have stood by her for a year and have tried to show her as much information as I can just to get her to a doctor. She has suffered long enough. This has plagued her for 30 years. How do I approach this? She tries things for a while but then gets down and gives up on herself. Then she gives up on me because she does not want to hurt me. She knows she has a problem. She then comes back and asks forgiveness. If I did not love her so much I would not have lasted this long. Who said women are the weaker sex...ha! What an idiot. If men had to deal with these emotional storms we would be institutionalized in a heartbeat. I am physically and emotionally drained. I keep reading and learning more. There really is so little written about this subject and yet it afflicts millions of women. I guess that is because men control the research to to the most part. I will continue to try to help the one I love but any help from you would be greatly appreciated. She is my soul mate and I won't give up until I have a solution. I know this just does not go away completely even with tratment. It will continue to take patience and love on my part even when the storms subside. Well thanx in advance.
> DougHello Doug, couldn't help but respond to your note, here. I have been reading back pretty far... just wondering, has your Lady friend tried antidepressants in any form? I think you mentioned seeking help that is not medication like that, and I truly understand that. I must share, though, that I suffered so long, spent a lot of money and energy trying to fix myself with diet, herbs, vitamins and excercise - all of which are good, I must add - but finally caved in and tried antidepressants 1 yr ago. I have been on Celexa (an SSRI) for a full year and I honestly urge anyone who is resisting that route to consider it. (This note is for Scott, too!) There is a link in women who suffer with PMDD and hormonal imbalances with seretonin levels (that is, they are markedly low). I NEVER wanted to use any kind of drug and I am glad I was desperate enough to surrender. I have been taking a HALF dose of what was prescribed to me to be conservative in my approach. Almost immediately I felt something "click" into place and it has helped me greatly over the past year to move from debilitating PMDD to a functioning existence. I am now (last month and presently) experiencing more difficulty with my PMDD and emotional/physical symptoms, so I'm on line here doing more research. Perhaps a switch or increase is needed. I plan to see my doctor for an update and tune up. Still, it is nothing like it was one year ago. PLEASE consider antidepressants as a valuable medical tool in correcting an imabalance. If she were diabetic wouldn't she take insulin? Also, just a note for you... I am very impressed at your devotion and compassion with your loved one. I must tell you, that like any serious condition (ie:alcoholism, etc.) we must desire help for ourselves when we are miserable enough. Don't lose yourself trying to help someone else if she is not willing. It's hard, but nec. for her to seek help herself. That's all for now!! - God Bless, Jackie
Posted by Doug Anderson on November 25, 2000, at 1:33:06
In reply to Re: Doug's note » Doug Anderson, posted by Jacki on November 24, 2000, at 15:14:29
>
> > I am lost. The lady that I love suffers from PMDD. The thing is that she won't go for help. Maybe she thinks that there is some other problem. You seem to have this too. I have stood by her for a year and have tried to show her as much information as I can just to get her to a doctor. She has suffered long enough. This has plagued her for 30 years. How do I approach this? She tries things for a while but then gets down and gives up on herself. Then she gives up on me because she does not want to hurt me. She knows she has a problem. She then comes back and asks forgiveness. If I did not love her so much I would not have lasted this long. Who said women are the weaker sex...ha! What an idiot. If men had to deal with these emotional storms we would be institutionalized in a heartbeat. I am physically and emotionally drained. I keep reading and learning more. There really is so little written about this subject and yet it afflicts millions of women. I guess that is because men control the research to to the most part. I will continue to try to help the one I love but any help from you would be greatly appreciated. She is my soul mate and I won't give up until I have a solution. I know this just does not go away completely even with tratment. It will continue to take patience and love on my part even when the storms subside. Well thanx in advance.
> > Doug
>
> Hello Doug, couldn't help but respond to your note, here. I have been reading back pretty far... just wondering, has your Lady friend tried antidepressants in any form? I think you mentioned seeking help that is not medication like that, and I truly understand that. I must share, though, that I suffered so long, spent a lot of money and energy trying to fix myself with diet, herbs, vitamins and excercise - all of which are good, I must add - but finally caved in and tried antidepressants 1 yr ago. I have been on Celexa (an SSRI) for a full year and I honestly urge anyone who is resisting that route to consider it. (This note is for Scott, too!) There is a link in women who suffer with PMDD and hormonal imbalances with seretonin levels (that is, they are markedly low). I NEVER wanted to use any kind of drug and I am glad I was desperate enough to surrender. I have been taking a HALF dose of what was prescribed to me to be conservative in my approach. Almost immediately I felt something "click" into place and it has helped me greatly over the past year to move from debilitating PMDD to a functioning existence. I am now (last month and presently) experiencing more difficulty with my PMDD and emotional/physical symptoms, so I'm on line here doing more research. Perhaps a switch or increase is needed. I plan to see my doctor for an update and tune up. Still, it is nothing like it was one year ago. PLEASE consider antidepressants as a valuable medical tool in correcting an imabalance. If she were diabetic wouldn't she take insulin? Also, just a note for you... I am very impressed at your devotion and compassion with your loved one. I must tell you, that like any serious condition (ie:alcoholism, etc.) we must desire help for ourselves when we are miserable enough. Don't lose yourself trying to help someone else if she is not willing. It's hard, but nec. for her to seek help herself. That's all for now!! - God Bless, JackieJackie,Thanks for your advice. I know the first step is to get her to her doctor and to discuss this problem. She admits the problem with PMS. I found the PMDD link. The thing is she believes that most of it is from her past and the way her family is. She believes her family history is to blame and this is just the way she is. What it comes down to is fear. I think that she is afraid that there is alot more than the PMDD and that getting psychological councilling will be admitting to madness. I can understand. When I became depressed over the past couple of years I sought help. I did not need medication. I just had to make some changes in my life. This included diet exercise, and cutting out alcohol. You see I suffer from migranes. There is the seratonin connection. That is how I found out about the PMDD connection. I realised her symptoms were that of PMDD. There is more to hers but there is the cyclical syndrome to her mental state. I guess if I went for help, then she is surely strong enough to do it too. I thought if she loved me enough then she would want to change her life to be with me. I guess I was wrong. I just know if she does something she may begin to see improvement and look for more answers. She has always been the kind of person to do things most people would be too timid to do. She moved away from home as a teen to begin her nursing education. She went for it and she has been at it since. She moved to my town by herself two years ago but has since left. She does all these things for herself,why not seek help for her PMDD? I don't truly understand. All the women I have talked to with this condition and more seem to get help. What is the difference except the fear factor. I guess she does not like to admit she is not in control and has to ask for help. I think there lies the key. Jackie, I am not willing to give up. I see what happened to me. I went from 4 or 5 migranes a month to almost ZERO. I have had only one in the past 2 months and it was not too bad.(did not get sick) I know that there is help for her and life can be much better for her. Love withstands alot. I have stood by her this long, I guess I will just keep trying. It is hard being without her. it is also hard being with her in her downward spiral. This is the toughest thing I've ever gone through and it is not even happening to me. I could not imagine going through what she does. Women are definately not the weaker sex. If she can deal with this and face it I will face it with her. If she refuses too much longer I guess I will have to move on.
Thanx for listening to me run on. I'm glad that there are people like you who are willing to help. Doug
Posted by S. Howard on November 25, 2000, at 18:39:55
In reply to Re: PMDD - Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, posted by Doug Anderson on November 19, 2000, at 10:24:20
Doug-
Sorry it took me so long to answer, I have been in the hospital this week.
Anyway-I am a big fan of both Norplant and the Depro-Provera injection. I have to take enough pills as it is without worrying about birth control pills, which I sometimes forgot to take, which just added to my problems. I am 40 now and my son is grown, a baby is out of the question.
My only problems with Norplant were 1)you can see them underneath your skin and that creeps some people out at first. There was also terrible bruising when they were first inserted, but it did NOT hurt, even when the Lidocaine wore off.
Eventually you get used to seeing the implants, like a tatoo, and you stop paying attention to them. They are inserted near your armpit and they aren't obvious. 2)Since Norplant is good for 5 years, it is tempting to skip your annual GYN visit, which is not good. 3)After 5 years, it is sometimes difficult to remove the implants. It wasn't all that painful, but it was -to be honest-a bloody mess. Still, I was more than willing to have new implants. My insurance company wouldn't pay for it, so I started the Depro shots. They are not painful at all, but they are good for only 3 months, and I was spoiled by the Norplant.
Still, the shots are better than pills.
I have had no side effects from stopping my menstrual cycle (hot flashes, etc.). I am religious about regular check-ups (cervical cancer runs in my family) and after 7 years, I am perfectly healthy. I don't bleed or spot (however, this takes some months to stop completely), I have no cramps, no bloating, no PMS, and I'm not growing a mustache. I would encourage your Significant Other to try the Depro-Provera injections first to see if they provide her with some relief.
Incidentally, she is very lucky to have someone like you. My husband wouldn't discuss my periods (if I had them) unless you held a gun to his head.
Good luck! -G
Posted by Janet on November 26, 2000, at 1:38:53
In reply to PMDD - Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, posted by Jan on March 1, 1999, at 10:54:47
> I am currently suffering from PMDD..I am 31 years old and about to try the drug Sarafem. I know it is the same drug as Prozac. Therefore, I was hoping to hear from others who are also on this medication. I have the symtoms of PMDD especially the irritability. I however, cannot take birth control or the like. I seem to create MORE PMDD symtoms with those medicines. Please if anyone is taking this drug, I would like to hear about the success or failure of said drug. Thank you...Janet
Posted by Wendy on January 3, 2001, at 15:18:57
In reply to Sarafem..does it work??PMDD sufferer.., posted by Janet on November 26, 2000, at 1:38:53
Hi Janet. I'm 32 and currently researching PMDD in order to better inform myself (actually, to better get up the courage to go to my doctor about the possibility that I might actually be suffering from this).
I've read LOTS of information about Sarafem/PMDD, and have thus far come to the conclusion that, while it's not THE drug of choice, it seems to be a mostly tolerable drug and works in over 60% of PMDD cases (controlled).
I have a friend who took Zoloft and for a short while Sarafem (different treatment purpose)and although she did have the insomnia and sometimes nausea, she didn't feel "drugged" when she was taking it - just 'less' of all that she was struggling with before taking it.....irratability, anti-socialism, sadness, often and drastic change in moods for no apparent reason.
So, if you've since started taking Sarafem, please follow up with me to let me know how you're faring with it. I'll report back myself once I get my butt into the doctor and see if he can't help me figure this out.
Regards,
Wendy
Posted by Noa on January 8, 2001, at 6:13:04
In reply to Re: Sarafem..does it work??PMDD sufferer.., posted by Wendy on January 3, 2001, at 15:18:57
Sarafem=Prozac, I believe
Posted by Wendy on January 8, 2001, at 17:57:33
In reply to Re: Sarafem=Prozac(np), posted by Noa on January 8, 2001, at 6:13:04
Not exactly. It has the same active ingredient as Prozac, but with different components added (I beleive, but don't quote me on this; I don't have the literature on hand).
It's an SRRI med, and used for the same "purpose" as Prozac, but under a different diagnosis.
I've recently been to my doctor, and while he's somewhat hesitant to diagnos me with PMDD, he does believe that I will benefit from drug intervention (meaning that I "know" I can't fix myself, and I'm past the point where talking about it and trying homeopathic remedy is doing any good); he's chosen Paxil in lieu of Sarafem though.
He's more comfortable with the positive results he's seen using this drug choice over the little he's been exposed to using Sarafem. We'll see. At least SOMETHING is going to happen for the better in my 'mood-coaster' ride of late.
Posted by Noa on January 9, 2001, at 15:53:50
In reply to Re: Sarafem=Prozac(np), posted by Wendy on January 8, 2001, at 17:57:33
I hope this strategy works for you--good luck.
Posted by Wendy on January 9, 2001, at 17:34:36
In reply to Re: Sarafem=Prozac(np), posted by Noa on January 9, 2001, at 15:53:50
Thank you. I will report back in a few weeks as to it's success (I hope!); I've been prescribed a one month supply and then back for a follow-up.
Apparently, if it's going to work, I'll know it for certain within the first month.
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