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Escitalopram - Day 7 onwards

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Posted 7/6/2016 8:56 PM (GMT 0)
Hi,
I have had a stressful couple of years, looking after 2 terminally ill members of my family, moving to a new country and going through the menopause.

I was fine whilst I was kept busy but when both members of my family died I slowly went downhill, mentally and physically and put it down to just being run down and symptoms of the menopause.

I finally plucked up the courage to go to my Doctor who did blood tests and a chest x-ray due to feeling breathless and everything came back ok except that my thyroid was showing as slightly high, so was put on meds for hypothyroid. Was ok for a while but then suffered with heartburn/gerd and was also put on Omeprazole.

Again, ok for a while but just didn't feel "normal" so went back to Doctors, more bloods done and came back thyroid was normal so taken off all meds.

I felt pretty good for a few weeks then was hit with a panic attack, I thought I was going to die, how you people cope with panic attacks on a regular basis is horrendous just to think about !!!

Anyway to cut a long story short I was put on HRT for menopausal symptoms and then a month later was put on Venlafaxine 37mg but couldn't cope with the side effects so 7 days ago I was put on Escitalopram 5mg.

I am finding these ok regarding side effects, but do have raised anxiety when I wake, which I have read is quite normal and a few other side effects but nowhere near as bad as the Venlafaxine.

I was wondering if anyone is at a similar stage and dosage as myself and maybe we could keep in contact and compare our "journey".

I have not had a great day today, have felt panicky most of the day, just starting to calm down a bit now.

I will post regularly to let you know how I get on and hopefully this may help other people.

I am a newbie to this awful illness so any encouragement would be appreciated.

Thank You xxx

Post Edited (Alantra) : 7/9/2016 8:01:36 AM (GMT-6)

Posted 7/6/2016 10:43 PM (GMT 0)
Hello and welcome!

We are glad you've joined us, though sorry to hear of your anxiety challenges currently.

I understand completely about being fine during the stressful times...only to have anxiety fallout in the aftermath!

I offer my sympathies for your losses...and my admiration for the caring love that your family members received in their time of need.

As far as you medication question goes...I don't have personal experience to share...but have read numerous accounts, and can confirm that many SSRI users do have somewhat of an adjustment for the first few weeks, as the body seeks to get used to the newly introduced Serotonin...making things a bit rough, before getting better.

However, if you can hang in there, you will likely find a med that performs well for you. :)

For now, please see our Resources at the top of the main forum page here for great self help material that is really beneficial if practiced regularly. The Stress Relieving Exercises and Meditations would be a good place to start.

Keep posting with us for sure. We care, understand and support is key!

Talk soon,

Scaredy Cat
Posted 7/6/2016 11:43 PM (GMT 0)
Thank you Scaredy Cat for your understanding,

I have been reading the forums for the last few days which have been a great help and relief !!!

I actually have tried the stress relieving exercises and deep breathing exercises tonight which I found to be very helpful, especially the deep breathing ones, as I am becoming a little obsessed with my breathing.

I am going to take all the advice I can and try the different self help resources.

I suffered from depression many years ago and managed to get through that but this Anxiety is a different kettle of fish altogether !!!! I am suffering mild depression at the moment too but can cope with that, it's the Anxiety that I am struggling with.

I know from reading the forums that I only have mild anxiety compared to many people on this site and my heart goes out to them all.

I will keep updating.

Thank you again xx
Posted 7/7/2016 1:10 AM (GMT 0)
and the intro of hrt will cause some ups n downs for a bit as well. keep strong.
Posted 7/7/2016 1:47 AM (GMT 0)
Thank you Happy Turtle,

I am trying to be positive but sometimes it is quite hard.

I can't wait for the meds to kick in and hopefully get some sort of normality back.

I am hoping that because everything stressful happened over a short period of time (18 months) that more than anything my body is just run down and out of sync and I certainly don't think the timing was the best to be going through the menopause ;)

Thanks for your support xx
Posted 7/7/2016 2:50 AM (GMT 0)
escitroprolam is typically more fast acting than most, your dose is very mild, thus keep seeking input from the doc. esp after a few more weeks, an increase may be warranted.
Posted 7/7/2016 10:35 AM (GMT 0)
I have an appointment in just under 3 weeks, I presume to be assessed and adjust dosage if necessary.

I feel pretty good at the moment, I am doing the breathing exercises which are helping me immensely.

Does this mean I am breathing wrong normally, is this how I should be breathing normally ? Though obviously not as pronounced ?

Thanks for the support xx
Posted 7/7/2016 12:38 PM (GMT 0)
Day 8

I am feeling more positive today, not as anxious this morning when I woke. Did some deep breathing exercises before getting up, they really seem to be helping me.

I hope I can get a bit more done today, sick of having no energy and lounging about.

I am definitely sleeping better too, hope its not the placebo effect as I realise I am only on a small dose of escitalopram (5mg).

I actually managed to eat a sandwich and a bit of yoghurt last night which is good as I struggled with my eating when I was ok and I can't afford to lose any weight. 5'7" and only 8 1/2 stone.

Think I will get some protein shakes to help.

Keep positive everyone and I will keep updating.
Posted 7/7/2016 5:37 PM (GMT 0)
A.,

So glad to hear you have started with a positive feeling for today! May that continue.:)

Yes, many of us anxious breathe without even being aware of it. It may not be the dramatic hyperventilation that comes to mind...but rapid, shallow breathing over time will have the same effect! So re-learning how to slower, deeper breaths really makes a huge difference in how we feel...as O2 and CO2 balance is essential.

Great news that you were able to eat too! Staying well physically, including good nutrition is pretty crucial in order to feel our overall best. I agree that getting some Ensure or Boost meal replacements would be a great idea!

Keep up the great work with the self help! I have noticed that those motivated to do so, find their best recovery.:)

Talk soon,

S.C.
Posted 7/8/2016 9:28 AM (GMT 0)
Day 9

Had a pretty good day yesterday in all, a little bit of anxiety crept in now and again but I did the deep breathing which helped a lot.

Managed to get some jobs done around the house, not much, but an improvement from lounging about all day.

Bought some booster shakes and managed to drink 2 during the day and also managed to eat some cereal and a few crackers with butter.

Slept ok last night but a little more anxious this morning, tried to do deep breathing but couldn't concentrate on them, so trying to take my mind off it writing this.

Not as positive today as yet but I am not going to let it get the better of me, it's still early days and a low dosage.

I hope everyone is having a good day, stay strong and I will keep you updated xxx
Posted 7/8/2016 4:17 PM (GMT 0)
A.,

Ups and downs happen...yesterday was good...and this morning not so much...

...but...the rest if the day could completely turn around! Great job on keeping your thinking positive! This is so important!

I hope that you have started to feel better. Continue to do your best with the coping skills, and be reassured that you are on the right track.:)

Peace and progress!

S.C.
Posted 7/8/2016 5:36 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Alantra..
I am so sorry to hear you are getting this anxiety. I am 52 yrs old and have had
it for most of my life-since a child. And you are right--I find anxiety much more
difficult to manage than the depression. Although depression is nothing to shake
a stick at-it's pretty horrible as well. But the anxiety takes on many more physical
properties than depression did for me.

I have been on 70mgs of venlafaxine for 5 years now. It has really helped me alot.
I'd say it took the better part of a year for me to finally feel medication help me.
I know that is not the usual, but that's my experience anyhow.

I am on some other meds as well to help with my struggles. For me it takes many meds
to manage my mental health. The Dr. just kept adding them on. I felt like a lab rat!

I am happy to report though, I have been on this cocktail of meds for the past two years
and finally have stability--Panic attacks are no longer ruining my life. They were so bad at
one point I wasn't even able to go to work. I do get them from time to time and with
the help of the skills they offer here, I have learned to manage the anxiety. For me, the
most helpful was mindfullness exercise. They have totally empowered me to be fully
functioning.

Any time you would like to talk, I would love that. I really feel - at the moment- that I have
finally come out the other side of this beast. I had it so bad, i couldn't even leave my house.
I have attended therapy and that as well was crucial-as well as meds.

Keep up with the positive attitude and keep posting. This place is wonderful . So many
caring people here. And to have folks that really understand this is so encouraging, as
anxiety can totally make you feel so alone. It is so isolating.

If I can be of any help to you, just PM me or post here.

Good for you for taking positive steps towards managing this.

Take care,
Linda
Posted 7/8/2016 5:42 PM (GMT 0)
Lindamine,

Thank you for sharing! I am so happy for, and proud of you for persevering, and finding your ideal Rx and self help regimen!

You are an inspiration to those still seeking their best recovery. Please keep sharing your story and encouraging others!

Hugs and high fives!

S.C.
Posted 7/8/2016 6:13 PM (GMT 0)
I take the same medication as you and it's been pretty good for years.

Lately, it's been a bit overwhelmed by a lot of stressors in my life, but now it's back working better again.

Good luck!
Posted 7/9/2016 10:51 AM (GMT 0)
Day 10

Anxiety most of the day yesterday, but still managed to catch up on a few of the chores that really need doing.

Had 2 booster shakes during the day and managed to eat some crackers & cheese and also a chocolate bar. I seem to be able to eat more in the evening.

No adverse side effects except the heightened anxiety, I take my tablet around 9pm and did feel better about an hour after taking it, hopefully my Dr will increase dosage when I go back in couple of weeks.

Woke up a few times last night but managed to get back off to sleep ok, at least I didn't have to get up.

S.C. Thank you for your encouragement, it means a lot

Lindamine - I am so glad you have your anxiety under control, I am 52 also and for the past 6 months I have never in my life felt so ill, normally a whirlwind, I never seemed to stop and nothing phased me, but since the move to a new country, menopause, my dad & cousin dying, (I looked after both of them) and semi-retiring (we now have a smallholding, which has always been my dream) I have gone downhill. On reflecting, a lot of bad things have happened in the last 10 years, I don't want to bore people with this as I know you all have enough worries of your own. If you don't mind I wouldn't mind pm you xx

H.H. - I am so glad your meds are working for you and hope you get through these new stresses ok, I have high hopes for this med, so fingers crossed.

Feel ok at the moment, wet, windy day today so maybe catch up on a few more household chores !!

Will keep posting, thanks everyone for your support, it means so much to me xxx
Posted 7/9/2016 11:47 AM (GMT 0)
Congrats on achieving a few chores today... you have done well :)

My anxiety has also been bad these past few days... went out to try something I used to love today, had a full blown anxiety attack before, still went and not the best this evening as a result... haha guess it was worth it?!

I understand about not wanting to 'bore people' I restrict expressing how I feel to those around me...or i'd sound like a darn broken record! Though ppl wouldn't likely admit it :)

if you need a good vent you can always do it here :) we all need it sometimes.

Take it easy and celebrate the small wins... this is my mini goal for the weekend.

Post Edited (AnxiousAboutAnxiety) : 7/9/2016 5:51:03 AM (GMT-6)

Posted 7/9/2016 1:57 PM (GMT 0)
AAA,

Thank you for your support & understanding, it means such a lot to know people understand what you are going through, although I don't believe I am anywhere near as bad as a lot of people on here, my heart goes out to them, it really does.

At least you did go out and do something, that in itself is an achievement, well done you :)

I hope the small gains continue for all of us.

Try and have a good weekend !!

Take care, speak soon xxx
Posted 7/10/2016 11:25 AM (GMT 0)
Day 11

Slept well last night, not as much anxiety this morning.

No real adverse side effects, perhaps the odd pressure headache and sometimes my ears ring.

2 booster shakes yesterday and cereal and 1/2 an omelette,so appetite slowly increasing.

Have ordered some Vitamin C tablets and fish oil capsules as I have read these can help immensely.

A bit of a lazy day again yesterday as anxiety was quite bad, the deep breathing helped though.

Still wet and windy here in Ireland so can't even go outside.

Will keep you updated and keep strong xxx
Posted 7/10/2016 4:04 PM (GMT 0)
A.,

All in all good progress!

Yes, take it easy today...pacing and recuperation from challenging days is key!

...and good job on ordering your supplements. ..sound mind/sound body! :)

Peace and progress!

S.C.

p.s. we visited your beautiful country last year! Dublin, then Kilkenny...amazing time...we will be back!
Posted 7/11/2016 8:53 AM (GMT 0)
Day 12

S.C. - Thank you for your continued support, beautiful country that's why we moved here from UK, but cannot settle so we are going to sell up and go back home, anyone want to buy a beautiful house & smallholding in the Emerald Isles ? turn

Little to no anxiety on waking this morning.....oh my, what a relief !!! :) Let's hope this continues. Slept well too. Still got a bit of ringing in my ears but can cope with that.

Went food shopping yesterday, loads of anxiety at the thought of it, but did some deep breathing which helped.

2 protein shakes taken during the day and had a sandwich, not as much as yesterday but quite anxious on and off all day.

Have noticed that my anxiety gets worse towards early evening, but I do take meds at 9pm, so was wondering if they are wearing off by then, might phone Dr. to see if I should increase to 10mg or should I wait for my appointment in 2 weeks ?

Stay strong everyone xx

Post Edited (Alantra) : 7/11/2016 3:02:50 AM (GMT-6)

Posted 7/11/2016 3:00 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Alantra. Sorry for your problems with anxiety. Hope things look up soon. I just recently started taking Escitalopram again this past Thursday, 10 mg a day. I've dealt with a lot of anxiety for several years now, and since my mom's health has been an issue over the past year and other things happening my anxiety levels have increased. So I too was wondering when things would start working, as I've still noticed a lot of nervousness and anxiety. Hope to see that disappear soon.
Posted 7/11/2016 3:50 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Lisa,

Sorry to hear about your current anxiety issues and your mum's health problems.

This anxiety sucks doesn't it? I have never suffered with it before, or so I thought until I started looking back over the last few years and realised all the stressful situations along the way. I think I have had it a lot longer than I originally thought.

The Escitalopram does seem to be working slowly, I don't cry at little things or thoughts anymore and the heightened anxiety since starting them has just started to wane (hopefully, maybe too soon to tell yet).

I am only on 5mg and I definitely seem to get worse as the day goes on so I am hoping my Dr. will up me to 10mg when I next go. I was originally put on Venlafaxine 37.5mg for 5 days to increase to 75mg after the 5 days, but I only managed 4 days at 37.5mg, the side effects for me were absolutely horrendous. I think that is why my Dr. has started me at a low dosage.

All I can say is to stay on them, as long as you have no adverse side effects, they do seem to be helping and I have read a lot of good reports about Escitalopram.

You say you took Escitalopram before, so I presume it worked for you last time ? Did you come off them because you were better ?

If you ever need to talk to someone please feel free to pm me or on here.

Stay strong,

Tracey xx
Posted 7/11/2016 7:16 PM (GMT 0)
It did work for me, but my husband did not like me being on it so I decided to try and taper off slowly like the way I read you should but that was a mistake. I was sorry I stopped it.
Posted 7/12/2016 10:06 AM (GMT 0)
Day 13

Hi A.W.E.....Lisa,
I hope you are feeling ok today, I remember being told a story once that if you have an illness like Diabetes or epilepsy for example, you are put on medication for the rest of your life, usually as this is a controllable illness....you have to remember Anxiety/Depression IS an illness and if you need medication for the rest of your life to make you feel better, then why is it any different ? Just as the insulin etc works for one person then the Serotonin etc works for people with anxiety disorders.
I would be quite happy to stay on these indefinitely if they get me back to normal !!! smilewinkgrin
Read escitalopram success story on this forum (it's on page 1), certainly gave me hope.

Day 13

Little to no anxiety on waking again this morning, I am loving this feeling !!
Slept well again last night.
2 protein shakes taken during the day along with Vit C and Omega 3 supplements
Actually managed to eat a small proper dinner, garlic potatoes with cheese & onion quiche

A slow, lazy start to the day but once I started doing a few chores I felt slightly better.

Then early evening, an AMAZING thing happened, I felt nearly normal, can't explain it at all......it was like a switch had been turned on !!!! Cannot believe how well I felt. Oh, I really, really hope these meds are starting to work turn

I don't feel quite as good now as I did last night, but......fingers crossed

Definitely feeling more positive

Stay strong and take care xxx
Posted 7/12/2016 5:25 PM (GMT 0)
Keep up hope...you can get back to that good place!

All in all, wonderful progress!.:)

With encouragement and high fives!

S.C.
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