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Mental Health (Expert Forum)
Symptoms of Depression
Answered by
Roger Gould, M.D. - Mental Health, Wellness
Questions posted in the Mental Health forum are being answered by Dr. Roger L. Gould, author of the Mastering Stress and Depression program and affiliated with the UCLA. Department of Psychiatry. Topics covered include anger, attention deficit disorder (ADD), bipolar disorder, dementia, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), learning disabilities, memory, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), panic, personality disorders, phobias, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), schizophrenia, stress, transitions, and work problems.
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Symptoms of Depression
by Michelle4999, Aug 27, 2002 12:00AM
I am a 37 year old female. Last year I underwent treatment for endometreosis using a drug called Lupron-Depot for 5 months. I experienced a lot of side effects and ended up having a hysterectomy (just the uterus removed)anyway. I had been having severe pain for almost 2 years. Since the therapy I have experienced severe mood swings, 60 pound weight gain that I cannot get rid of. Severe chronic fatigue and my body does not (supposedly) get rid of water properly (adrenal glands)so I was put on Lasix for severe adema. Is it possible that the toximia I had during the pregnancy of my first child damaged something somehow too. I did suffer for several years with kidney and bladder infections. My doctor says that the chronic fatique and the mood swings are a form of despression. He has had me on Paxil, Seraphim and many other antidespressants. I am now on Celexa(I am not sure how I feel about that either). I just discovered recently that the severe colitis I was being treated for was mostly because of the lasix(not all). I have been on so much medication for so long.I am a mess and I am so gun shy when it comes to doctors (because of all of the side effects of the medication they put me through). I don't even want to talk to my doctor anymore. I live in a rural community in Alaska and there is not much when it comes to healthcare here. Please someone give me some sound advice as I am losing it mentally and physically. I feel like I am falling apart and I have been in pain and had so many illnesses that I don't think I can handle it anymore...Help!
Doctor's Answer
by Roger Gould, M.D., Aug 27, 2002 12:00AM
, Aug 27, 2002 12:00AM
Pain can be so corrosive, and in itself can cause depression. Depression can make pain worse. It is unlikely that the toxemia still is effecting you, but you should address that question to an expert in that field, which I think you can find on this site.
It is very likely, from what you have said, that a real depression is apparent. The proper treatment would be a combination of psychotherapy and antidepressant medication. Celexa is a good one, and you should probably stay on it.
If you can't find a psychotherapist because of where you live, you could start that process online by going to www.masteringstress.com.
It is very likely, from what you have said, that a real depression is apparent. The proper treatment would be a combination of psychotherapy and antidepressant medication. Celexa is a good one, and you should probably stay on it.
If you can't find a psychotherapist because of where you live, you could start that process online by going to www.masteringstress.com.
If I were in your shoes, I would see another dr.
Are you taking hormones? I would also get checked out in this area...and do ~natural~ estrogen & ~NATURAL~ progestern. I know that hormonal imbalance can cause a lot of problems, including depression and weight gain. At 37, you might be experiening perimenopause and might be going through early menopause???
This site seems to have a lot of information. It might help.
http://www.project-aware.org/
Also, I would drive as far as I needed to drive to see a doctor. (yes...another doctor...) Don't mess around...MAKE YOURSELF FIND A GREAT DOCTOR!
I think it is important to find the root of your problems. A second or third voice might be helpful.
The meds for depression are probably good if they are not causing problems. ...and someone to walk you through this time is vital.
P.S. If I gained 60lbs., and was in pain, I would be depressed also. Hang in there...and let me know how you are doing.
It is hard.
I need some help too!