SSRIs

Dr.  You answered my question on Somatoform disorder.  You said that doctors could possibly use SSRIs to treat it. What are SSRI's? Is nortriptyline one of them? Does Somatoform disorder now mean that my body chemistry is somehow changed? THat the burning and dizziness i am experiencing is because my body
chemistry has been thrown off? I do not understand why severe stress could make me feel ill. Also would the SSRIs
help to eliminate the dizziness? I have definitely had a complete medical work up including MRI, pulmonary function
exam, thyroid blood tests, chest xray-etc.  Thank you very much.

Heather

[HFHS-M.D.-HG]

Dear Heather
SSRI's(Serotonin Specific Reuptake Inhibitors) are medications that are proven to be safe and effective in the treatment of depression, anxiety and several other psychiatric disorders. Nortriptyline is a medication that belongs to the class of tricyclic antidepressants. We can not say definitely that body chemistry will be changed in every person suffering from somatoform disorder. Severe stress can exacerbate the symptoms. SSRI's may help dizziness but some times, exacerbate it. I would recommend that you talk to your doctor about your concerns.

Sincerely
HFHS-M.D.