Menopause Matters Forum

Menopause Discussion => Personal Experiences => Topic started by: Yammy1 on November 13, 2017, 02:24:20 PM

Title: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 13, 2017, 02:24:20 PM
Went to see doc this morning and explained how anxious and down i'm feeling. She prescribed citalopram, and even though 10mg is the lowest dose she said to cut in half and try 5mg for a few weeks and see how i get on. They are  tiny and the chemist kindly cut them in half for me so I just took first one and hoping they will help, I explained to doc that I was having chest pain and left arm pain but when I told her my left shoulder has been extremely painful when I move in certain ways she did a few tests (painful i may add) and diagnosed frozen shoulder, I have gel to rub on four times a day and exercises to do, she said it could take months to get better and i should have told her earlier. I really hope citalopram works and doc said it's often prescribed for menopause as it helps with anxiety and hot flushes. She started me off on such a low dose as she knows my tummy is sensitive to change, Here's hoping this is the start of the road to recovery. Will keep  you all posted
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: dazned on November 13, 2017, 03:02:07 PM
Hope you get some relief soon . :)
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Annie0710 on November 13, 2017, 03:14:14 PM
Oh Yammy I really hope this gives you a break of how anxious you've been feeling.  Keep checking in daily with how you're feeling.  It can help others AND act as a mood diary for you to look back on (I wish I'd done a diary of what I'm using and how I feel as my memory Is bleugh) x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 13, 2017, 03:17:10 PM
Thank you both, I really am trying to be as optimistic as I can, I will keep a diary and let you all know how I get on
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 13, 2017, 04:31:13 PM
Should get it checked by doc sparkle, I'm so annoyed I ignored it for months.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Snoooze on November 13, 2017, 05:29:47 PM
Good luck Yammy, am really hoping the AD works for you and look forward to reading of your progress.

Out of curiousity, what sort of tests did Dr do to diagnose frozen shoulder as since last week, I'm having a lot of pain in my right shoulder, front of chest, down arm? Having trouble washing my hair then last night while drying hair with hairdryer, shoulder started hurting again.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 13, 2017, 05:43:48 PM
Hi snoooze, not quite sure but she pressed certain points and had me try move arm in different ways, not sure if this helps but she was able to diagnose frozen shoulder . I nearly hit the roof at one point she touched. Thank you for kind wishes, I'm feeling a bit jittery since taking first tablet but that's me, I panic when trying anything new. I'm determined to stick with them and give them a good go. One thing for sure I can't go in the way I was feeling.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Snoooze on November 13, 2017, 06:00:22 PM
I haven't liked to say as don't want to jinx it but going through an OK period at the moment which is a minor miracle. Had a small blip at weekend but talked myself out of it!

When you take the tablet, just pretend it's a paracetomol or something and don't let your mind go there (easier said than done!).

x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on November 13, 2017, 06:05:23 PM
Frozen shoulder takes 2 years to heal.  That is: if the body stays completely still.  However: we breath; sneeze; turn over in bed ...... so the body is never still.  Maybe refer yourself to physio. for exercises specific to frozen shoulder.   My Mum had to lean forwards when standing and use a stirring motion gradually rising to an up-right position still stirring.

If the Doctor presses the correct point,  :o the patient has to be peeled off the ceiling!

I take my 10mg AD at night so that any side effects happen at a more restful time.  I also take 5mg with breakfast.  Do let us know how you get on!
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Kathleen on November 13, 2017, 07:25:47 PM
Hello Yammy 1.

I hope the ADs work for you and you feel better soon.

Snooze -  I 've always kept a diary and it's reassuring to see a record of the good times lol. It's  comforting to know that they are even possible. Whenever I feel ' normal' it's as if I am coming up for air and I  resolve to enjoy it while I can.

Take care ladies.

K.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 13, 2017, 07:49:07 PM
 Snoooze so glad to hear your feeling well, long may it last. CLKD I did hit the roof when doctor touches a certain spot and one of the exercises she gave was the lean forward,stirring one. She said to take ad in the mining but if it doesn't agree with me I'll take it at night.
Kathleen thank you for kind words, chunking tummy shortly after taking ad but it didn't last too long, so fingers crossed
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: rebel2 on November 13, 2017, 08:27:49 PM
Good luck Yammy.

On the frozen shoulder front - I had this four years ago.  Literally woke up one day unable to move my right arm up [and I mean it was paralysed].  Went to doctors, got major pain killers and was told to keep it still - doctor said it was a really, really severe case and I might eventually need surgery.   Needed pain killers at night as it was agony.  A week later, no better so went to sports physio in desperation.  She gave me a series of exercises that needed a resistance band [you can get one from Amazon or Decathlon].   I had to do them twice a day until it got better.  I did them without fail and bit by bit I could move my arm more each day.   Two weeks later I was completely cured. 

I asked physio why the treatment she gave wasn't prescribed and she said it was due to budget cuts.  She also said that she could almost guarantee to cure frozen shoulder with exercise regime.

Let me know if you want further info - I really think I would be crippled now if I hadn't gone to her.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 13, 2017, 08:44:20 PM
Thank you so much rebel2, your very kind. I will give the exercises doc gave me a try for a week or so. But if they don't work yes please if you wouldn't mind I'll get back to you for more info. Hope yr feel good well
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Kathleen on November 13, 2017, 08:49:43 PM
Hello ladies.

I haven't had this myself ( but hey, there's still time lol) but my friend had this condition. She was referred to a physio by her GP but was told the number of sessions available would be inadequate so she would need to book extra appointments privately. My friend did this and her problems resolved but where would she have been if she couldn't afford the extra treatment or been unable to find a physio available? A two tier health service coming to a town near you...

Take care everyone.

K.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 13, 2017, 09:04:23 PM
Tell me about it Kathleen, I live in Ireland and although I'm on disability and unable to work I'm not entitled to a medical card because my husband works. The fact that I worked for years means nothing  >:( so I have to pay for doctor visits and prescriptions, I really don't think we can stretch to a physio.hopefully by using the difene spray and exercising I'll be ok
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 13, 2017, 09:08:18 PM
You poor thing sparkle, I didn't know about sleeping on left side is good for hiatus hernia, but as its my left shoulder it's too sore anyway  :'(. I'm also feeling very achy another wonderful meno symptom.hope you feel better soon
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: rebel2 on November 13, 2017, 11:02:30 PM
Feeling better today thanks Yammy, good luck with the shoulder.

Kathleen - I had to go privately and do the ex revises on my own at home every day.   Physio is ridiculously difficult to get on NHS which is silly, as it can save thousands.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 14, 2017, 12:17:14 PM
Bday two, feeling quite anxious, but I know with ads it's 'normal' to feel worse  at first so I am determined to stick it out. Does anyone know if I can take small dose of my emergency pill(Xanax) to ge m hrough ths tough stage
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Kate on November 14, 2017, 12:23:05 PM
You could ring a pharmacy to ask just to be certain
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Annie0710 on November 14, 2017, 12:30:08 PM
I don't know Yammy, Kate's right to ask pharmacy

You keep going girl, you've done the hardest bit of starting them, think how good your outlook could potentially be xxx
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 14, 2017, 12:37:18 PM
thanks Kate and Annie, I'll soldier on. I'm determined to get better and if this means I have to feel worse for a few days then so be it. It really really helps knowing you have support and this site is such a help.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Samade on November 14, 2017, 01:30:05 PM
I started citalopram last year. Do hang in, its definitely one of those you feel worse before you feel better. I'm so glad I did hang on!
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 14, 2017, 01:35:44 PM
Thank you Samade, how long were you feeling bad before they worked, I'm shaking with anxiety and feel like I'm burning from the inside  :'(
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Samade on November 14, 2017, 01:42:31 PM
The first two or three weeks were bad but I kept telling myself they will work  and eventually things started to ease, it wasn't an instant thing just very gradual. On the plus side I did lose 8lbs in 10 days !
You will feel better and will be stronger  :hug:
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: littleminnie on November 14, 2017, 01:48:44 PM
Hi Yammy1, sorry if this has been mentioned but, have you tried the Bach's rescue spray?   You could try that until the Citalopram kicks in.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 14, 2017, 01:50:55 PM
Thank you Samade, two or three weeks sounds like a mountain when I'm only on day two :'(,, I wasn't expecting o feel this bad on half lowest dose, 5mg. Am glad doctor started me so low. I wish I could go to sleep And wake up I n two weeks, I will try my best to stick it out but I must admit  i am really struggling I have some rescue remedy littleminnie, thank you
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Annie0710 on November 14, 2017, 02:22:03 PM
COUld dr give you some diazepam to see you through this settling in stage ? I'm losing who I've been chatting with but my daughter started sertraline and was horrendous for 10-14 days settling on them, now she's tirned a very bright corner.  Dr gave her beta blockers too which she said is a great help x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 14, 2017, 02:47:21 PM
Annie I have Xanax which I think is similar to diazepam, just a bit scared to take both. I take Inderal (beta blocker) just 10 mg before bed so I might take another during the day, just so scared I'll get so bad in the next week or so that I'll quit. When will it ever end :'(
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on November 14, 2017, 05:14:41 PM
The side effects can be scary.  What is happening exactly, for me it was the nausea that stopped me taking certain ADs though the one you have been prescribed has good reports as does it's sister, Escitlopram which I take - 10mg at night and 5mg in the morning.

I also have BBs and an emergency drug for when anxiety floors me.  Do ring the Pharmacist and if you *are* able, keep taking the meds.  Side effects may well wear off sooner rather than later.

 :bighug:
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 14, 2017, 05:57:49 PM
Oh CLKD, I'm so scared I don't know what to do. I haven't had anxiety like this in a very long time. The emergency pill I have(Xanax) I got from my sister in law so I can't really ask doc if it's ok to take but the citalopram really has floored me. I'm only taking 5mg so I can only imagine what the starting dose of 10 mg could  do to me. I really am thinking f giving up and just sticking to Xanax as and when needed. I jus want to cry I feel so scared
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Annie0710 on November 14, 2017, 06:18:45 PM
Yammy it's so important you keep going, I know it's easy for us to say.  In my daughters first week of sertraline she emailed mental health hospitals begging them to take her in.  I can't explain the difference in 2 weeks, she's doing the school runs again.  Can anyone be with you? Please phone a nice dr and say you need help during this settling in period

Keep going honey...... you WILL come out the other side xxxxx
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 14, 2017, 06:24:56 PM
Hi Annie thank you so much for your reply, I have been googling another site and it seems I can take my xanax on a low dose to take the edge off so I might try this tomorrow. I feel like such a failure but today's anxiety really has me in a bad way, that's me all over I try something new and panic and give up. Oh when will this ever end
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Annie0710 on November 14, 2017, 06:42:12 PM
It will get better Yammy, please believe that

And, you're not a failure...if only non-anxiety sufferers knew the bravery that is needed to get through each day there'd be a lot more respect for sufferers x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 14, 2017, 06:54:33 PM
Thank you Annie, what a lovely thing to say, and so sad that anxiety is such am awful thing to live with. I've just had a nice hot shower and your words of encouragement mean more than you'll ever know. I'm going to take one day at a time and hopefully be strong enough to stick with ads and come out the other side stronger and better. Once again thank you so much
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Annie0710 on November 14, 2017, 07:04:13 PM
Be very kind to yourself for the next couple of weeks, don't plan anything and keep people close to you aware of how you're feeling... and forget advice is just at the other end of the phone, Drs prescribed them so should be available for advice

You're welcome Yammy, you'll come out of this hell, it'll just take some time xxx
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 14, 2017, 07:09:45 PM
Thank you Annie   :foryou:
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on November 14, 2017, 07:41:05 PM
I think that you will find the feelings will ease.  Be kind to yourself.  Rest.  Try relaxation. Often we 'look' for problems which makes any side-effects worse! 

5mg is a very low dose and after a few days you really shouldn't be affected.  How have you reacted?  I sometimes get hung over which is a nuisance as I don't drink  ::)
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 14, 2017, 07:44:29 PM
CLKD,panic attacks, anxiety and extremely dizzy  :'(
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on November 14, 2017, 07:46:22 PM
Caused by anticipation that the drug will cause side-effects.  Been there, done that, survived.  ..... and breath!  Let the medication do it's work.  When did you take the pill, I take my high dose around 9.00 p.m. at night, bath time then bed.  I can then sleep.

Are you eating? 
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 14, 2017, 07:53:30 PM
Doc said to take it in the morning, I feel so sick but I know I  Have to eat especially as I'm diabetic. I  can only hope it doesn't las too long
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 14, 2017, 08:11:45 PM
Thank you sparkle, I just took a tiny amount of Xanax to take the edge off. Do you still take citalopram?
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 14, 2017, 09:18:02 PM
Yes sparkle it has taken the edge off, I'm going to go to bed soon and as the saying goes 'tomorrow is another day' hopefully a better one. But  I'll take he Xanax again if and when I need it, anything to get me through. Glad the citalopram worked for you. Fingers crossed I'll have success too.  :thankyou:
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Annie0710 on November 14, 2017, 09:23:13 PM
Hope you have a restful sleep Yammy xx
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 14, 2017, 09:26:52 PM
Thank you Annie,   I Have to look forward and hope fir the best x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 14, 2017, 09:39:46 PM
Nite nite all  :thankyou:
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 15, 2017, 02:20:25 PM
Day three, am still very anxious but small dose of Xanax is taking the edge off and I had a good nights sleep so that has helped. Luckily I have neve had a problem sleeping, if the way I'm feeling now is as bad as it gets I think I can cope until citalopram kick in. I'm well aware anxiety grip at any time but I'm trying to take things slow and trying not to dwell on negative feelings x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Annie0710 on November 15, 2017, 03:32:43 PM
You're doing great Yammy xx
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Samade on November 15, 2017, 04:04:04 PM
thats good Yammy, believing you'll get there really helps and even if you get dips come and find us on here  :)
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 15, 2017, 04:20:41 PM
Thank you Annie and Samade, typical me just got a pain I'm my right hip, and guess what major panic. When will it all end  :'(, to top it all made it to the shops this morning and scraped our new car on way into drive in, hubby won't be best pleased but to be honest that's the least of my worries
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Annie0710 on November 15, 2017, 05:13:36 PM
The meds are in the process of changing your thought process Yammy, let them do their work until it's all settled, anyone can scrape their car, and these menopause symptoms (aches and pains) will become clearer to you as just unfortunate annoying symptoms and not major illnesses xx
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 15, 2017, 06:29:50 PM
Thank you Annie, and your right as hubby said the car can be fixed. I'm  More surprised at my reaction when it happened I just shrugged my shoulders whereas before the would have been crying. I feel I have enough on my mind. I'm under no illusion that ads have kicked in but today was less anxious than yesterday so here's hoping x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Annie0710 on November 15, 2017, 07:02:23 PM
Sounds really promising Yammy xx
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: HopeAlone on November 15, 2017, 07:20:24 PM
Hi Yammy
Just a bit encouragement I have taken citilopram in the past on and off for a few years and it worked wonders for me. Took 3-4 weeks to kick in so keep going you will get there x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 15, 2017, 07:23:55 PM
Thank you hopealone, I'm hearing good reports about citalopram so fingers crossed
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on November 15, 2017, 08:31:08 PM
Little steps.  If the Xanax helps take a small amount to ease any anxiety. 

It was the nausea that was the worst for me but eventually I found an AD which didn't cause those feelings.  I never looked back!

Any aches and pains may well be a dip in oestrogen or tension from worrying about the side-effects which will feed on the 'will I ever find a drug to help' - been there too  :'( - and coped eventually improving so that most days I cope.

 :bighug:
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 15, 2017, 09:01:09 PM
Thank you all for kind words, one day at a time x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on November 17, 2017, 04:47:38 PM
Half a day at a time?   Any improvement?
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 17, 2017, 05:02:38 PM
Hi CLKD, Still feeling anxious but it's bearable, jet taking it easy and as you say half day at a time. As this is day 5 im determined to stick it out and so far today I haven't needed Xanax, I may even have a little drink tonight. Fingers crossed that I'll continue to improve, I know it's a long road ahead and the ads are going to need tweaking but at the moment I'm glad I'm giving them a go, thank you for asking x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Annie0710 on November 17, 2017, 05:24:02 PM
Such a lovely update Yammy xx
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 17, 2017, 05:29:50 PM
Thank you Annie, you were one who persuaded me to keep going, I really appreciate it. I'm under no illusion that the worst is over and I know there will be set backs but I feel I'm doing the right thing sticking with ads.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Annie0710 on November 17, 2017, 05:43:27 PM
Aw you're doing great Yammy, you just needed some gentle and kind encouragement, it's you who is doing all the hard work, be proud of yourself xxx
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on November 17, 2017, 05:52:20 PM
DO NOT have any alcohol.  Let the medication DO ITs' WORK!  oorther wise you will blame the AD and not the alcohol.  Alcohol is a depressant.  ADs won't work as well. 

It's too early in your new medication regime to even consider altering that you are taking!
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 17, 2017, 05:57:56 PM
Thanks again Annie, and CLKD, I understand where your coming from, I was just thinking one or two at home with hubby, I haven't decided weather I will or not but I'll b careful, all in moderation x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 17, 2017, 06:17:22 PM
Thank you sparkle for advice, will give it another while so. Do you drink at all on citalopram?
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: dazned on November 17, 2017, 06:24:58 PM
Glad you're progressing ,well done you,long may it continue. Mine took a good few weeks before I truly felt better at the beginning but each day was easier.☺
If I was you I wouldn't have a drink just yet awhile,but that's just me ! ::)
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 17, 2017, 06:35:08 PM
Thank you dazned, I think I'll wait. I'm just curious do you have a social drink or do you avoid it altogether. At the moment I'm not too bothered either way, but I would like to have a few drinks over the Holidays.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: littleminnie on November 17, 2017, 06:43:22 PM
I drank when I was on it. Not a lot but 2-3 and I felt fine.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 17, 2017, 06:53:47 PM
Thank you littleminnie, I'm not a big drinker but I like a couple at the weekend. Just not sure weather I could or not.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: dazned on November 17, 2017, 07:06:37 PM
It's just whilst you get settled on it. Perhaps save it for a Christmas tipple . ;)
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 17, 2017, 07:07:42 PM
Will do,  thank you  :)
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 17, 2017, 09:23:28 PM
 ;D I didn't bother sparkle, going to give ads a bit longer, a nice cup of tea instead
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 18, 2017, 08:11:17 AM
Morning sparkle, so glad I didn't have a drink as the morning anxiety isn't great, going to try go back o sleep for a while and hopefully it I'll ease
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 18, 2017, 11:44:09 AM
Day 6, why do I Feel so down and anxious today, past two days were bearable but not good today :'(. Hopefully it's just a blip
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Annie0710 on November 18, 2017, 12:20:05 PM
ITs all part of the settling in on them Yammy.... keep focussed..... this will be crap for @2 weeks then I WILL start living this life of mine.... embrace the good and rest during the bad ones, you'll get there xxx
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 18, 2017, 01:26:31 PM
Thank you Annie and Spakle, just feeling sorry for myself, heart skipping beats, which is a symptom I haven't had for a while. Just took small dose of Xanax so should take the edge off soon. Need to go to chemist and shop, can't keep relying  on everyone else to do everything. Only local shops so here goes  :P
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Annie0710 on November 18, 2017, 02:42:07 PM
If your palps get too much ask doc for beta blockers.  The more physical symptoms you can erase the quicker you will feel better

I've had a horrible time with palps but I can't hsve beta blockers, I'd love a normal paced heart rhythm x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 18, 2017, 02:46:19 PM
Hi Annie I take Inderal ( beta blocker)10mg at night, doc said I could take one during the day as well but to be careful as my blood pressure is already low. I have calmed a bit and made it to the shops yay, just a bit dizzy so I'm going to take it easy for rest of day X
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Annie0710 on November 18, 2017, 02:48:15 PM
Oh well done Yammy, yep one point to you, and nil for anxiety.

Better days are just round the corner xxx
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 18, 2017, 02:53:53 PM
All w can do is look forward, have a lovely weekend Anne x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Annie0710 on November 18, 2017, 03:03:06 PM
And you Yammy xxx
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: dazned on November 18, 2017, 03:51:23 PM
Well done you for tackling the shops ! :foryou:

Just think this time next week you should see more improvements. :)
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on November 18, 2017, 03:55:42 PM
Alcohol can alter the uptake of many medications and is also a depressant.  End of.  I've never worried about others drinking nor have they bothered me, they accept that I don't take alcohol.  I never justify why.  I never explain.  I am what I am  ;)

When I first got back into the local World after being housebound for 3 months, I went shopping in the quieter times of day.  The 1st day I walked round, taking tins off shelves and reading the labels B4 putting them back: I was more worried about being accused of shop lifting  ::).  Even now, 15 years down from there, I shop when it's quiet and never let shelves run out of stuff so if I panic, I can start again tomorrow.  It has been about managing the anxiety for me.  A very HARD learning curve  :(
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 18, 2017, 04:09:27 PM
Thank you dazned, CLKD I didn't have a drink last night, but I may tonight. I respect that you choose not to but I personally like a tipple on weekends with hubby. I'm lucky I don't suffer depression I suffer from anxiety and I'm also aware that my body and mind need time to adjust to Meds. As I said regards alcohol I can tak it or leave it, but I don't judge people on weather they choose to or not. I was lucky today supermarket wasn't too busy, didn't buy loads just essentials but at least I did it x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on November 18, 2017, 04:10:40 PM
Well done you!   :medal:  how did you feel, did you keep checking yourself, I still do so whilst shopping  ::) - do realise though that any 'odd' feelings tomorrow may well be the alcohol reaction so try not to panic  ;)
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 18, 2017, 04:16:41 PM
Will do CLKD,  found myself looking at other shoppers, specially females and wondering how thy cope, but I guess they look at me too and think the same, it's not  like we have our symptoms tattooed on our forehead, nobody knows what's going on inside others, we are all fighting our own battle.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 18, 2017, 04:54:59 PM
Thank you sparkle, isn't it amazing the little things that most people take for granted is such a milestone for others  ;D
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Annie0710 on November 18, 2017, 07:15:20 PM
THing is, it's so hard to describe isn't it?

It's like I feel I must ‘stand out' in any social/shopping situation, and not stand out in a good way, more like I've got 2 heads or have loo roll dragging along one of my shoes.  My daughter said to me that have I ever wondered that I get people looking because they might like my bag, or coat, or even think I look nice..... no I imagine the negatives lol x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 18, 2017, 07:33:26 PM
So true, always think the worst. Your daughter has the right attitude, turn a negative into a positive, hard to do when anxiety has worn you down but with practice who knows  :hug:
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Annie0710 on November 18, 2017, 08:37:26 PM
Well that is the woman who developed panic disorder and agoraphobia at Easter, totally out of the blue, she's always been so sociable and outgoing, it's her story that I relay to you to give you encouragement Yammy :-) xx
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on November 18, 2017, 08:40:07 PM
However: if you stand quietly in the supermarket and watch others, how many really are looking at "U"!  My psychologist once asked why I thought I was so important that people would look at me - I was really really hurt  :'( but kind of got what she was trying to tell me. 
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 18, 2017, 09:13:20 PM
Wow Annie, it baffles me what anxiety can do to a person, can completely change you. Give your daughter my best wishes, she's also lucky o have such a supportive, understanding Mam.
CKKD I know what you mean, we are not as important as we think lol
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Annie0710 on November 18, 2017, 09:19:16 PM
We know we're being silly, I assume we're all alike where in calm moments we can pick our anxieties to shreds and can't give an explanation can we?

My anxiety is focussed more on being around people or out and about on my own. 

A few weekends ago we had hubbys friends to stay and we all went out for a meal and drinks.  I've got to know them well over the years and as they were leaving next day I noticed their hugs to me were really meaningful.  The husband text my hubby later that day saying they loved every moment of their stay with us and love our company.  So why was I nervous the whole time? Nothing makes sense where anxiety is concerned x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 18, 2017, 09:25:38 PM
Your right there Annie, none of it makes any sense
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on November 19, 2017, 02:28:48 PM
I was raised not to let people down so if I agreed to something then I wasn't to change my mind.  So consequently I had lots of anxiety because I had said 'yes' ........ now when asked to do something I tell people to give me time to consult my calendar and in the meantime, make sure that they have backup in case I have to dash off to see my elderly Mum  ;)

Also it was worrying about what people would think if I had to leave an event earlier than planned, now it doesn't bother me!
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 20, 2017, 12:20:21 PM
Day 8 and I really wish ads started working, I'm tired and fed up trying to be 'normal'.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Clare11 on November 20, 2017, 01:22:24 PM
Hi, you will get there Yammy. I have just restarted, just over 2 weeks and starting to feel less worried and weepy.
Had a break but started to get weepy and whittled alot so started back on them. Hubby supportive and I do have a wee tipple with them, I asked the Doc and she said fine, not too many though. Which is good baa on holiday at the moment.
Keep with it as they have helped me. 😁
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 20, 2017, 01:32:01 PM
Thank you Clare for your kind words of encouragement, I'm just feeling sorry for myself and getting impatient. I haven't had a drink yet but glad your gp said it's ok. Can I ask what mg our on, I'm only on 5 mg but doc reckons it's enough for me as I usually react to any new medication. Enjoy your hols
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Samade on November 20, 2017, 01:58:35 PM
Glad you are hanging in Yammy, chatting on here will make you realise what is going on is normal
Time goes so slow when you just want to get better, there were times in my first few weeks that I thought I was going backwards and not forward. Being on here really helped me feel less alone and trapped in my head.
Keep going, its good for me too to see how you are getting on, gradually the dips lessen and the ups get longer  :great:
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 20, 2017, 02:36:37 PM
Thank you Samade, your right about time going so slow, but I'm determined to stick with it
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on November 20, 2017, 03:02:36 PM
If the side effects are barely stick with the medication?  The brain doesn't get where it is suddenly so it needs time for the drug to begin
working ;-)
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 20, 2017, 03:06:11 PM
Thank you CLKD, Yes side effects are not nice but bearable. I didn't take Xanax yesterday or so far today so hopefully things are moving in the right direction
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on November 20, 2017, 03:09:02 PM
Well done you!  Progress  :medal:
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Annie0710 on November 20, 2017, 06:24:05 PM
Oh Yammy you're going great.  Not long now til that life is ready to live xxxx
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 20, 2017, 06:57:29 PM
Thank you Annie, right now it feels like I've a mountain to climb, still very anxious when I leave the house which is frustrating but I guess you have to walk before you can run.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on November 20, 2017, 07:11:01 PM
Little steps.  Wading through treacle it felt like at times  >:( ......
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 20, 2017, 09:02:28 PM
Well guess what, my daughter just had a major panic attack, her three year old son is Acting up lately, typical three year old pushing all the wrong buttons. Anyway I calmed her down, this time last week I'd have been an emotional wreck too. Little steps but mighty steps too.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Annie0710 on November 20, 2017, 09:42:40 PM
Aw bless your daughter , hope she'll be ok.   Went on Facebook about an hour ago to see my daughter had a panic attack this morning on the school run, she reversed into one of the dads.  I asked if there's much damage to the cars and no, she actually reversed into him ! His body ! He's ok.  She went into full panic mode and another mum who's a gp sat in her car with her and calmed her down x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 20, 2017, 09:55:09 PM
Oh Annie your poor daughter, I hope this doesn't set her back, she was doing so well. Give her my best wishes. Mine is fine now, sitting watching celeberity  :D
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Annie0710 on November 20, 2017, 10:08:21 PM
Yes mine is watching that too, we are too

She said dr has doubled her dose as she hasn't been sleeping well either

Let's hope everyone starts to feel better.  My work colleague phoned in sick today because of anxiety x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 20, 2017, 10:16:44 PM
It's frightening how many people suffer with anxiety. I think it's because people are speaking out more these days, and this a good thing
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Clare11 on November 21, 2017, 12:31:17 PM
Hi Yammy, iam on 10mg at the mo but will be dropping bro 10mg every other day.  And the Doc has even advised that if I stop I can restart any time, it's my choice on how I feel.
Have to say they helped with the night sweats too but think they are finally going naturally 😁 at last after 6 years.
I was late in dealing with Menopause probs, thought I could do it all on my own but no got too much for me and anxiety was the biggest problem.
Have good and bad times but it's always there in the background like a little nutty squirrel.
Keep going you will feel better, as CLKD said the brain is complicated and takes time to feel benefits.
x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 21, 2017, 03:02:10 PM
Thank you Clare, I will defineatly stick with them, I'm hoping 5mg will be enough for me. I haven't needed Xanax past three days so fingers crossed. I still feel awful in the mornings, anxious and down but the days are a little easier. Good to know you can cut down as you wish.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Snoooze on November 21, 2017, 03:46:13 PM
Hi Yammy,
Just checking in to see how you're doing. Sounds like you're slowly but surely getting there and I think you've done really well, so give yourself a pat on the back.
My anxiety still seems to be staying at bay. I'm amazed. Not sure why it's happened but I keep my fingers crossed I've turned a corner. I've always had anxiety, but it was never daily like it became in peri, so I'm hoping that this new phase is me getting back to how it was before my hormones went off kilter. I take each day as it comes and try to relax and not let my mind over think it. I wonder if when you're waking on a morning, you're straightaway thinking how you feel as you're waiting for the day you wake up with no anxiety? It's easier said than done, but try not to think about it.
Wishing you continued success with the AD's.
x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on November 21, 2017, 04:04:00 PM
Little steps.  Let the medication do what's designed for.  If the side-effects are tolerable .......

>wave< CLare11
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 21, 2017, 04:48:35 PM
Thank you snoooze, glad your feeling so well and your probably Right about me worrying in the morning. CLKD, thank you
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on November 21, 2017, 07:11:51 PM
 :bighug:

Are you aware of what the process of anxiety surges are and how 'normal' they are to our over-all survival?  However, knowing why it happens rarely helps me with the actual physicality  >:(
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Annie0710 on November 21, 2017, 07:17:59 PM
HI Yammy
Was just checking on how you're doing.  Keep going xxx
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 21, 2017, 07:47:47 PM
Hi Annie, once I get over the initial morning dread I'm not too bad thank you. Hopefully onwards and upwards.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Annie0710 on November 21, 2017, 08:49:36 PM
Pants that you get the morning dread still but so good your days are getting better xxx
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on November 22, 2017, 12:47:06 PM
That's my worst time.  Any time after 3.30 a.m. I can wake with surges  :'(
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 22, 2017, 06:13:17 PM
Day 10 and not having a good day. I keep yawning and have a very uncomfortable feeling behind left breast :'(. I feel. Can't breathe properly and my health anxiety about my heart is back with a vengeance. Please le his be just a blip.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on November 22, 2017, 07:19:49 PM
It's a blip.  When my body is bloated I can't draw a full breath.  Noticeable when out walking  ::)
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 22, 2017, 07:23:26 PM
I'm sure your right CLKD, Just need to try be more positive and have patience. Give ads a bit more time to hopefully work their magic.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on November 23, 2017, 02:43:43 PM
It's the physicality though, knowing it will pass doesn't take the awful feelings away  :'(

OK this morning?
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 23, 2017, 06:10:29 PM
Better day today, thank you
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on November 23, 2017, 07:15:44 PM
I'm really pleased for you!  I find my worst hours are B4 lunch, after which I am able to relax more  ::)
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Annie0710 on November 23, 2017, 08:13:20 PM
Glad you've had a better day Yammy cx
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 23, 2017, 09:36:48 PM
Thank you, just wondering,  the past few evenings I'm yawning a lot and feel like I'm not getting enough oxygen, just wondering if this is a reaction to ad?and more importantly will it pass as it's driving me nuts
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: lesley998 on November 23, 2017, 10:25:45 PM
It's a known side effect of some SSRIs. It should settle down.  I was on Seroxat years go, and it gave me ‘air hunger', made me yawn,  and clench my teeth....it was awful.  The teeth clenching got so bad the Doc replaced them with another AD.

Here's an interesting article on yawning

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2708013/
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 23, 2017, 10:38:34 PM
Interesting SweetPea, it only seems to be in the evening time. I really hope it stops soon as I really don't want to have to stop and start all over again with another ad
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: lesley998 on November 23, 2017, 11:04:01 PM
.... you don't want horrible side effects.   If it hasn't settled soon, obviously you'll have a word with your Doc.  He'll maybe lower the dose....but.....Sometimes they just don't suit, and you have to find one that does,  I do hope you persevere as AD's can be life changing. 
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 24, 2017, 07:09:11 AM
Thank you SweetPea, had a really bad night. Full blown panic attack, felt I couldn't breathe. Woke this morning with a bad head cold feeling yuck. This is day 12 of citalopram, I'm only on 5mg so not sure this is high enough. I will rest the weekend and if no better I will ring doctor on Monday. I'm sure the cough and cold aren't helping. Just can't seem to get a break from this anxiety  :'(
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on November 24, 2017, 11:26:39 AM
....... and breath.   Yawning is natural, can be boredom, lack of oxygen, lack of exercise or because someone else is yawning: why is it so catching?  :D

5mg isn't much.  I take 5 in the morning and 10 at night.  How are the over-all symptoms?  If anxiety continues, ask about an appropriate anti-anxiety medication 'as necessary', I have an emergency pill to take when it floors me.  Because I know that it eases symptoms within about 20 mins., I have never worried about needing to take more.  It either knocks me out completely or enables me to relax.

Little steps.  How is your diet, if the body needs energy it can go into anxiety mode.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 24, 2017, 11:37:05 AM
CLKD,Ive just woken up and i feel like I've need run over by a truck.  headache, aches and pains cough and bunged  up yuck. I had my flu jab so guess it's just a bad cold. Going to start some uniflu and hope for the best. I have emergency Xanax so will take if needed. This is all I need, was feeling bad enough  :o.woe is me
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on November 24, 2017, 11:41:59 AM
Woe indeed.  I won't have the 'flu jab  ;).

Even knowing that it's a cold doesn't stop the physicality does it  :-\ - be KIND to yourself.  Get a cuppa to hand, feet up, afternoon TV  ;). 

Once these symptoms are through, think about whether an extra 5mg might help; perhaps take it for 3 days then go to the GP and discuss?
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 24, 2017, 12:16:43 PM
Was thinking about upping it to 10mg, I'll ring gp Monday and get new prescription, the ones I have are cut in half. But your right when you suffer from anxiety every illness is exaggerated . Thank you for your kind words.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on November 24, 2017, 02:07:28 PM
Have you felt a little better during the week?  It can take a while for ADs to begin working, used to be told 10-14 days  ::) but when I started in the 1990s, I felt better within a few days  ;)
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 24, 2017, 02:40:37 PM
I've had he odd good day but. Think I need at least 10mg
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on November 24, 2017, 02:43:25 PM
When do you take your 5mg?
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 24, 2017, 02:45:23 PM
In the morning, that's when doc said to take it
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on November 24, 2017, 03:01:35 PM
So consider 5mg at night as well?  Either ask your GP or do it and talk to him about how it makes you feel after 7-10 days?
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on November 24, 2017, 03:06:52 PM
Good idea, thank you I'll give it a go tonight
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on November 24, 2017, 07:59:51 PM
..... and try not to look for extra symptoms, although you probably will  ::).  If after 3 nights you don't like the effects, try 5mg in the morning and alternative nights?  It's Trial and Error and took me years to take control of self-medicating until I found a balance.  My GP sometimes says "That's not the way that drug is prescribed or meant to be taken" so my reply is always "But it works for me at this moment in time". 
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on December 23, 2017, 05:51:09 PM
Just an update. Am almost six weeks on citalopram, went up to 10mg four weeks ago. Im still getting awful morning anxiety, but it usually subsides by afternoon.  reading up on ads this is hardest symptom to shift. I'm sitting with a pain in my left arm( happens from time to time) I have frozen shoulder. But the difference is I'm not freaking out. I'm far from better but I'm not giving up, I Beleive ads can take a couple of months to work fully. I have been able to go Christmas shopping alone and managed fine, so this is defineatly an improvement. I still havnt  been out socialising but I have had a few drinks at home on weekends with hubby and been fine. I'm not saying the ads have cured my anxiety but I'm getting there. Just wanted to give a little update x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Annie0710 on December 23, 2017, 06:04:30 PM
that's a positive update Yammy, good for you for persevering! I think also maybe the more positive experiences you have the more you'll gain confidence in yourself.  But dint ever let one bad one ruin it all.   Let's hope there's more better days to come for you x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on December 23, 2017, 07:00:37 PM
Thanks for the update.   It can take a while for the brain/body to gain relief from ADs.  The brain doesn't get there suddenly so it stands to reason that it might take a while to ease symptoms.

Little steps.  Put the socialising to one side, don't let your pantry/fridge get low on food so that you don't back yourself into a corner - I always go shopping B4 I need the basics so that if I have a bad day, I don't feel as stressed.

 :bighug:
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on December 23, 2017, 07:14:49 PM
I do that to CLKD, I always make sure presses as well stocked. Thank you Annie feel like I'm getting there. How is your daughter doing ? I hope all is well
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Annie0710 on December 24, 2017, 01:10:44 AM
I do that to CLKD, I always make sure presses as well stocked. Thank you Annie feel like I'm getting there. How is your daughter doing ? I hope all is well

She's gone from a healthy size 12 to between size 6&8 :-(

Sertraline and BBs have helped a lot with the agoraphobia and panic disorder and the nausea has eased during the day but by teatime it's back so she does most of her eating during the better hours.  Her sleep is all skew whiff but she's not allowing herself to nap during the day x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on December 24, 2017, 02:19:22 AM
Sorry to hear that Annie, I have lost weight too, I'm now 8 stone and diabetic nurse is not happy. I told her  I'm doing my best but I have no appetite. I eat little  but often. It's a long road to recovery but hopefully a successful one x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Clare11 on December 24, 2017, 10:09:10 AM
Hi, keep going Yammy, it will get better. Took and is still happening for me but so much better than I was a year and abit back.
Have a lovely Christmas and all being well you will have a much better year next year than this one 🎅😋
x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on December 24, 2017, 06:54:10 PM
Thank you Clare, not having a good day today, very anxious and panicky :'(. Hope it's just a blip and tomorrow is better. Have a lovely Christmas and new year. Just wondering how long your ads took to work
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: racjen on December 26, 2017, 07:21:10 PM
Hi Yammy, I really empathise with your descriptions of morning anxiety, it's awful and I've not had success with drugs,  but I do know that what really helps for me is to have a really really good cry. Sounds a bit extreme I know, but every morning at the moment I take myself out for a walk and cry my eyes out, and somehow the anxiety dissipates. I know it doesn't sound great, and also that not everyone can do that, but I'm finding that a feature of my mood at the moment is that my emotions are very close to the surface, and the only way to release them is to cry.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on December 26, 2017, 10:55:18 PM
Thank you racjen, you've just brought it to my attention that I havnt cried in the six weeks since I started the ads. Feel sad but no tears :'(. I will give the Meds another few weeks but if no improvement I'll go back to doc. I don't really want to stop them after lasting six weeks but I'm no sure they're for me
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on December 27, 2017, 01:57:18 PM
Do remember why you began the AD?  It may not be a cure but if it eases some of the symptoms  :-\.  I haven't cried for years but I no longer wake deeply afraid, I have a Life again ........... it needs to be reminded too that it can take 4-6 months of AD treatment B4 a person realises that, actually, they are beginning to feel better!
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: racjen on December 28, 2017, 12:04:21 AM
If it takes that long to see any positive effect, how can you be sure you're not just naturally coming out of the depression anyway? That does happen - for those who can't tolerate ADs sometimes time alone can heal. I think most doctors would expect some kind of discernible positive result within a month; the beneficial effects do continue to build up for some time after that, but as with all drugs they have negative effects too so I wouldn't carry on taking them regardless.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: littleminnie on December 28, 2017, 09:44:48 AM
I personally would carry on Yammy1, if you stop now you will never know if they would have worked.   When I took them a few years ago, it took a long time to get back to being ‘me', but little by little I started to feel better.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Samade on December 28, 2017, 10:29:30 AM
Over the last 5 years I have tried 2 Ads, Fluoxetine and citalopram. Both worked brilliantly but mine did take about 4 months to work, I had some relief earlier. It was a case of the good days becoming more frequent and bad days less frequent, so there was a very slow but steady improvement and less and less bad days.
What kept me going was the thought that if it was hard to go on them I'd have to come off very gradually, I wouldn't be able stop over a week or two.   I wish I had never stopped the fluoxetine, I thought I was better and the next time the Dr suggested Citalopram might be better so I went through all the starting up issues again. BUT it is working and I have no intention of coming off unless there is a very good reason even if I am better.
Sorry ended up rambling lol
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on December 28, 2017, 05:19:12 PM
You ramble!

4 me it was good result within 3-4 days but 3-4 months B4 I turned round one day thinking "I actually feel better".  I had slowly begun to pick up my Life again >PHEW< - each AD has lasted me well, 2-3 years in many cases.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Clare11 on December 28, 2017, 08:06:01 PM
Hi all, i felt some relief after about 3 weeks but over time as others have said I felt more like me. And yes I didn't cry for ages but then that feeling came back, especially when watching sloppy films. Now I feel that the things that worried me don't worry me as nearly as much as they used to and the really bad worries hardly ever pop up. I did come of them for a while but I think I was far too early so back on them. I feel more myself and happier. I have been back on them now for 3 months.
It can take time.
x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on December 28, 2017, 09:09:24 PM
>wave Clare< - similar for me.  The end of The Incredible Journey will set me off  ::)
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on December 29, 2017, 09:03:33 PM
Thank you all. I am going to stick with ads for another while. Went away with hubby to hotel for two nights came back today, I was very anxious about going but was ok. We're heading to lanzarote next Friday for a week and on terrified I'll freak out, I don't like being out of my comfort zone :'( hopefully I'll b fine I have a few emergency Xanax just in case. I'm wondering I've been very tired and sleepy lately, hubby says I could sleep standing up  ;) would the ad be causing this. I know I yawn a lot but seemingly it's a common Sid effect
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on December 30, 2017, 01:15:57 PM
Not enough exercise in the fresh air?

Not sitting correctly?

Low blood sugar?

Anxiety can cause yawning.  As can some medications which may/not interfere initially with sleep patterns.

Pros and cons?

Enjoy Lanzarote, maybe take a Xanax the night B4 you fly?
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Roseneath on December 30, 2017, 02:11:07 PM
Just wanted to say to Yammy thanks for sharing your exerience of starting ADs. The fact many of these things are trial and error is the hardest part for me. When you feel bad you are desperate not to feel worse! I am sure your holiday will be fantastic; we need Dr Curry to buy us a Menopase Matters timeshare Villa in Lanzarote please; would ' cure' most of us I'm sure!
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on December 30, 2017, 04:37:20 PM
Roseneath, could you imagine us all together in lanzatote :D. The island would close down  lol. I'm struggling with highs and lows on ads, but I don't want to give up just yet. I don't suffer from depression I take them for anxiety. Mainly health anxiety(convinced there's something wrong with my heart) its the pits. No Matter how many doctors tell me my heart is fine I still worry. I don't want to be reliant on medication but I also know I need it right now, maybe some day I'll be able to cope on my own but until then I will stick with it. I'm not 'cured' but the Meds are defineatly helping. Hope you all have a lovely stress free, peaceful new year   :party:
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on December 30, 2017, 04:44:32 PM
I didn't want to take ADs but I need them for Life.  Acceptance that I now have a Life again ;-).

Lanzarote - enjoy, I don't fly  :-\ .......... I think it's a great idea though: warm weather, pool? , black sand ........
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on January 14, 2018, 07:37:50 PM
Hi all. Hope everyone is well. I got back from Lanzarote on Thursday night and I have to say It was a nice holiday, poor hubby got flu before we went and I got bad cold for a few days but it was a nice break. I'm still taking ads and although I'm not out of the woods yet and still have blips, I can honestly feel that i am defineatly  feeling better than before I started them. I was able a have a few drinkies on hols and no problems at all. For the first time in a long time I feel the old me is starting to come back, slowly,  but it's a start. Once again I hope you are all well and enjoying the new year x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Samade on January 14, 2018, 10:03:52 PM
So glad to hear you had a nice time. It's great that you're noticing an improvement :). Remember you may get some low days but you should get more and more good days.  So pleased you're moving in the right direction
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on January 15, 2018, 12:01:50 PM
Little steps!   I had to make sure that when feeling better I didn't take on too much otherwise anxiety would swamp me.   :foryou:
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on January 15, 2018, 06:32:52 PM
Hi all, just reading back on this post and realised I have come a long way. Only slight anxiety in the mornings now and although my heart has been skipping beats and jumping all over the place the past few hours I didn't panic. It's not a nice meno symptom and one I haven't had for a while but it will pass. I must take note of when this happens and see if there's a pattern. Hope all are well and looking forward to brighter, better days ahead x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on January 15, 2018, 07:12:35 PM
Little steps ...........
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Clare11 on January 15, 2018, 07:21:12 PM
 :) Good to see the progress. 😁
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on January 16, 2018, 02:00:47 PM
How R U Clare11?
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on January 31, 2018, 12:05:21 AM
11 weeks on citalopram and just thought I'd give an update. Well I have to say I am about 80% back to my old self. I can't Beleive the difference in my anxiety since I first started ads. I know the first month or so was hell but I'm so glad I stuck with them. I'm still on 10mg which is a low dose but I'm doing really well. I have the odd blip but the morning anxiety is gone and I feel I can cope with the every day stresses that floored me in The past. I'm not saying ads are the answer for everyone but they  have given me my life back and for the first time in a very long time I am looking forward x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Samade on January 31, 2018, 08:50:04 AM
That's really good, wish they would discover a way where we didn't have to get worse before we get better. Well done for toughing it out.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on January 31, 2018, 01:25:43 PM
Yammy - that is such good news!  :foryou:
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on January 31, 2018, 04:46:12 PM
Thank you ladies, I know I'm not there yet but I'm on my way x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Snoooze on January 31, 2018, 05:36:04 PM
Excellent news Yammy. I'm pleased for you and that you managed to stick with the AD's, it will give hope to others that if you perservere with them they will work.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Aquarius on February 08, 2018, 06:35:03 PM
Went to see doc this morning and explained how anxious and down i'm feeling. She prescribed citalopram, and even though 10mg is the lowest dose she said to cut in half and try 5mg for a few weeks and see how i get on. They are  tiny and the chemist kindly cut them in half for me so I just took first one and hoping they will help, I explained to doc that I was having chest pain and left arm pain but when I told her my left shoulder has been extremely painful when I move in certain ways she did a few tests (painful i may add) and diagnosed frozen shoulder, I have gel to rub on four times a day and exercises to do, she said it could take months to get better and i should have told her earlier. I really hope citalopram works and doc said it's often prescribed for menopause as it helps with anxiety and hot flushes. She started me off on such a low dose as she knows my tummy is sensitive to change, Here's hoping this is the start of the road to recovery. Will keep  you all posted
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on February 14, 2018, 01:08:27 AM
Three months on and I honestly feel Im Turning a corner regarding my anxiety. I still have 'moments' or blips from time to time but I am now , for the first time In a very long time getting my life back. I've just spent a weekend away with a group of friends and I really enjoyed it, am heading to Malta on 1st of March and am not dreading it like I usually would. I'm not saying citalopram or any ads are the answer for everyone but they have really Helped me and just wanted to share my experience.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Lanzalover on February 14, 2018, 06:48:17 AM
Hi Yammy1


I've only just read this thread and it's lovely to hear you feel you have turned a corner and are now starting to get your life back long may it continue.


Take care of yourself and enjoy your holiday in Malta ☀️


Love Lanzalover.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on February 14, 2018, 11:06:12 AM
Don't do too much at once.  I found that when I felt 'better'I would make arrangements then would be filled with dread.  So 1 thing at a time is enough for me to book!

Enjoy Malta.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Petals on February 21, 2018, 08:26:17 PM
Have been prescribed these from my GP but unsure whether to take or not for the anxiety. I'd ruled it out, however, still not entirely sure if it's the right way to go.

Yammy, It appears like you had it bad when you first started taking Citalopram and yours was such a low dose too? My GP has prescribed 20mg a day to start. I'm not convinced I could endure all the side effects you experienced. My friend said she didn't have any but I tend to react to anything I'm given. Glad to hear it has helped in the long run though for you  :).
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on February 23, 2018, 02:13:47 AM
I'm still on 10mg and I have to say they have really turned my life around. I'm actually happy and looking forward instead of living in the past and worrying about absoulitly everything. I will admit the first month or so was horrendous and I don't know how I made it through, I wanted to give up  so many times. I am so glad I stuck it out. My advise would be to ask doc for something to get you over the initial stages, i.e. Xanax to take as an emergency to cope with the really bad days. Please give citalopram a chance, I'm proof after suffering on and off for many years that ads can really help
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on February 25, 2018, 12:51:15 PM
Yep - what's to lose?  In the 1980s I had to try 4/5 different ADs prior to finding one that works, since then Life has been better  ;)
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: valb on February 26, 2018, 07:05:05 AM
I've been on Citalopram for 15 years. 20mg. It's something which is a must, especially now I'm back off HRT and trying a lady care magnet. It helps me to be the rational person I once used to be!
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on February 26, 2018, 01:06:20 PM
Tnx valb.   
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on March 12, 2018, 07:53:14 PM
Having a major blip today, I'm just finishing an antibiotic for chest infection so not sure if this is why I'm feeling so bad. I have pain in left arm, slight chest pain and general achy all over. I'm exhausted and dizzy and am having flushes. I really hope this is just a blip and tomorrow will be a better day. Just wondering if anyone else feels like this after antibiotics
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on March 12, 2018, 08:40:56 PM
I would think it's more the chest infection.  I think you should ring your GP if this gets any worse!!! at least in the morning. 
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on March 12, 2018, 09:01:01 PM
Thank you CLKD,I had chest X-ray on Friday and all clear. I guess health anxiety never totally goes away
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Snoooze on March 12, 2018, 10:22:34 PM
Maybe you've got a virus on top of the chest infection? I remember you had arm pain when your anxiety was high, so try not to panic x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on March 13, 2018, 05:56:01 PM
Thank you snoooze, I'm feeling a bit better today. I think your right. Am inclined to panic, my health anxiety is always focused on my heart, I just need to try relax a bit more and it should pass x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Samade on March 13, 2018, 06:20:28 PM
Remember how far you've come  :hug:
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on March 13, 2018, 07:05:31 PM
When my anxiety was bad I had a calendar - 1 was an awareness of anxiety, 5 was the need to swallow an emergency tablet or go to the GP Surgery for safety.

Looking back each week I could see that I had survived as well as that the anxiety was up and down. 
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on March 13, 2018, 08:40:00 PM
Yeah I took half a Xanax today and that really helped, but I've noticed I haven't been needing them lately so just a blip. Nice to have them to fall back on in emergency, but obviously it's not my heart, once I took pill pain eased so know it was anxiety
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on March 13, 2018, 08:43:37 PM
That's a good step forwards!   :medal:
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Snoooze on March 13, 2018, 11:00:54 PM
You're doing so well so you're allowed a little blip. Probably because you had been ill and were tired and run down.

Look how quickly you realised it was down to anxiety and you didn't panic for days on end.

Am glad you're feeling better today. Onwards and upwards. Well done.
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on March 14, 2018, 07:11:31 AM
Thank you snoooze and CLKD for your kind words, it means a lot to hav support especially on the bad days x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on March 14, 2018, 12:27:21 PM
That's why we are here.  How's this morning been, thus far?
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on March 14, 2018, 06:28:58 PM
Not too bad today thank you, got slight chest pain/discomfort earlier followed by flush so I'm guessing it's hormonal
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on March 14, 2018, 07:05:59 PM
HORMONES  >:(  ::)

Is the pain bad enough to take medication?
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on March 14, 2018, 10:46:42 PM
No it's just scary, but passes as quick as it comes once I calm down
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on April 03, 2018, 11:31:37 PM
Hi all just checking in. Well I've been feeling a lot better the last few days, I'm defineatly seeing a pattern, I seem to 'dip' every three months for a couple of weeks so it's obviously hormonal. I'm heading to Majorca on Sunday with hubby for a few days break and am actually looking forward to it. I will defineatly stick with citalopram for the foreseeable future as I feel it really is helping me. Hope all are well x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Samade on April 04, 2018, 08:29:30 AM
That is brilliant, knowing that blips will pass really helps. I'm a bit like that too.
Have a wonderful holiday  ;D
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Yammy1 on April 04, 2018, 11:37:52 AM
Thank you Samade, only a short break but looking forward to it, glad your feeling better too x
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on April 04, 2018, 03:08:38 PM
Enjoy the sunshine!
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Janina99 on May 03, 2019, 04:56:13 PM
I read all your comments and you sound like me...
I've been suffering with anxiety on and off...my ear ringing is getting louder and louder...and sometimes it's even a pounding noise.  What if I may ask helped you with both.  My doctor also gave me cipralex 10 mg...but it didn't agree with me...your help and input is Muchly appreciated
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: Janina99 on May 03, 2019, 04:58:12 PM
I've read your entire story...I am like you anxiety and terrible ear ringing...what helped you?  I feel like I am going crazy
Title: Re: Citalopram
Post by: CLKD on May 03, 2019, 05:12:58 PM
You are not going crazy  ;) it's The Change.

Citalopram - I take the sister drug and it suits me fine. We have a thread on tinnitus too ....... and when I lay down my ear throbs to the beat of my heart, 'It shows you still have one' says DH  >:(  :-*