Aaahhhhh. Citalopram withdrawals syndrome = Brain zaps/brain shivers.
Brain zaps are said to defy description for whomever has not experienced them, but the most common themes are of a sudden “jolt,” likened to an electric shock, apparently occurring or originating within the brain itself, with associated disorientation for a few seconds. The phenomenon is most often reported as a brief, wave-like electrical pulse that quickly travels across the surface of (or through) the brain. Some people experience these “waves” through the rest of their body, but the sensation dissipates quickly. They are sometimes accompanied by brief tinnitus and vertigo like feelings. Immediately following this shock is a light-headedness that may last for up to ten seconds. The sensation has also been described by many as a flashbulb going off inside the head or brain. Moving one’s eyes from side to side quickly while open has also been known to trigger these zaps and sometimes causing them to come in rapid succession. It is thought to be a form of neuro-epileptiform activity.
I have had the brain shivers from Effexor which is another strange feeling but I recognized what I was feeling and just ignored it.
Brain Zaps, Brain Shivers, Brain Shocks, Head Shocks or Electrical shocks are a common side effect and withdrawal symptom from Antidepressants, but they can also occur with Benzodiazepines and Sleeping Pills.
Do talk with your Dr. about wean off the Citalopram slowly. Let us hear from you after your Drs. appointment and know we are here.
Kindly,
Kitt