[tatjanaonlyone]

Oh ya, forgot to say BATHS with epsom salts, helps detox the liver and all other organs.

[erinkj]

Howdy all, I talked to the nurse at pshyc office today and told her about heart issues. Been racing, fluttering, feeling tight, skipping some I think. constant for 2 days, xanax isnt calming it down like it does with panic/anxiety attack. She said I should see my Dr or go to the Er cause that is cardiac not anxiety. I have had these symptoms many times in the past however, it was always with the anxiety and xanax always calmed me and my heart beat normal. This time is a bit different. Not even real anxious and its getting worse. Hard to breathe etc. Not sure bout going to the Dr, sure they will say it is just an attack, but having just reinstated my meds, I am a bit worried that it could be more than panic....Any recomendations? should I just go to my DR? Erin...

[tatjanaonlyone]

Erin,

Don't know if you are reading my posts, but I have the same thing. I had an EKG and it was normal, I still think you should have that done. If yours is normal then I say go do the acupuncture, you don't even feel the needles like most people think, trust me I panic if I just look at one. I really did not believe this would help and I only went once and it was a miracle. I was calm!! No panic attacks since then and that was Saturday. Don't waste time and money on other meds to help, it wiil just make it worse. But like I said still go check it out to be certain there is no prob. Then do the natural stuff.

[Goodlife]

Ohwell, thanks for your support.

I am badly enough scared right now that I am considering going back on the medicine. I'm worried I've broken something.

But, I'm scared to go back on the medicine too. I've read somewhere (this thread, maybe?) that there's a sort of six-week threshold of being off the drug, when going back on it will leave you with the side effects, and add new concerns. I passed six weeks on Sunday.

I have a scrip for lexapro liquid laying around, and I am considering filling it and giving myself a 5mg dose to see if that helps, and maybe go for a 5mg does every other day, as my "start taper."

I really wish I could stay off it, though. It feels like I've already suffered and sacrificed enough-- because really, the first week of withdrawals was one of the hardest things I've ever done in my life, but I got through that. This isn't as bad as the first week, but it's wearing me down. I'm especially distressed that the ringing went away, then came back.

[GiGi MacMurray]

I tried that neni pot, and just couldn't get the hang of it. It's like one side of my nose doesn't have the draining hole. Weird, I know.
Who knew I'd have withdrawal symptoms and flying a big trip right now would cause me any trouble? I've always thought of myself as quite strong, but this is kicking my butt. I still work out every day, have to, want to lose the dreaded 10 pounds that I gained this past 2 years I was on this drug.
And I've also thought about getting acupuncture. Thanks for the heads up about telling the acupunturist that you're going through withdrawal from an anti-depressant.
Almost had a crying fit today, but not my fault. The cab driver took me to the wrong location, it was hot, I was carrying a very heavy bad with my computer, and I couldn't find where I was (forgot my map). Reminded me of how easily I could fly off the handle when things weren't going well. Talk about control freak, ME. I calmed down once I got out of the tropical heat to some A/C.
For those who doesn't eat fish or fish oil (gag), ground flax seed is a tasty, and nutrient-rich omega 3. I have it on cereal in the morning. Alas, I am in Singapore right now, and wouldn't know where to go to get it ground up. I'll be back in the States in a week.
No clogged up nose from flying. Short flight tomorrow to Kuala Lumpur.
Ringing in the ears? Must be terribly annoying, so I am sorry to hear of the person suffering from that. I would guess any kind of massage would help with the frustration of that withdrawal symptom. I had a leg rub as part of my pedicure yesterday, and almost shouted out with "ahhhhhhs" when she was rubbing me. Just to be touched and carassed was enough to make me forget all these ********************py feelings.
Why is it that in the morning after I sleep, I feel SOOOO much better? I guess my brain is thanking me for resting it. Doesn't last long, soon I get those weak in the knees feeling, brain fog, etc. Really similar to jet lag.
Wish I could go out on a walk with you, Erin. I'd make you happy in no time, just being out and about. And fresh air, you can't beat it.
I read about not taking synthetic vitamins in that "road to recovery" book that someone mentioned. What exactly is a synthetic vitamin? The cheap ones? I am leery in taking any kinds of medications, even Motrin.
Wishing you all good recoveries.
Love,
GiGI

[GiGi MacMurray]

Here I am again, replying to my own post again. Anyway, did anyone else have really small pupils after not taking Lexapro? I look in the mirror when I wake up, and they're sooo small. All during the day they're small. Is this from sunlight? I wear sunglasses when I'm out. I am fair-skinned, blonde, blue-eyed, but this is rather strange to see these little black pupils.

[HappyDad]

Originally Posted by Ohwell

I have read most of this entire thread...and to my knowledge only a few have done the road back...most say the supplements can be bought at any health food store, and you can read its information for free on the site...many say the supplements they sell are very pricey....page 188 on this site had much info. on supplements. Hope you are doing well happy dad.

I take...

Omega3 fish oil (carlsons brand) 2 a day.
Magesium Maltate (one a day, usually with dinner, any later makes me not sleep)
Coral Calcium at bedtime (helps with sleep)
1 milk thistle (to help my liver detox) Only begin this at 2 months+ off Lex.

Thanks for the heads up. The "Super Foods" that The Road Back suggest seem very expensive and I'm very leary due to all of the snake oil sales organizations that seem to feed off of the misery of others (us). I don't mind spending the money if it works, but if the products can be had under a different name and they're just as effective then I'm all for going that route.

Thanks again,

Happy Dad

[tatjanaonlyone]

Too funny, I too am Blonde, blue-eyed, and fair skinned, haha, and until you just mentioned it, I did not notice my pupils are in the same shape. HAHAHAHA, this is starting to be funny. I was really annoyed at the situation, but now I see the comedy in it. How crazy is that. I think maybe it's cause I have not slept yet, ya think.

I can not imagine flying around the world during this withdrawal, you are my hero! It takes a REALLY strong person to do what you're doing. Geez, I'm having a hard time dealing with my poor cat (my son) who has a major ear infection in both ears. I was trying to give him his meds after 1/2 hr of cleaning his ears, well he was fed up and just would not open his mouth,lol. I was so out of my mind by this point I started laughing like a lunatic. I woke up my husband, it was 4:30 in the morning, and I was killing myself on the kitchen floor. Long story short, that is about all I can deal with on my plate. Cheers to you GIGI, I would probably go insane on a flight.

[Ohwell]

I am a cancer survivor....my 2 year anniversery date is in March 2008...last chemo. March 13 2006... (lymphoma)

What about the pamogranets? (sp?)

I drink grape juice alot, as have read cancer doesn't like grapes, eps. dark colored ones.

I was put on Lex. to help me "get through" chemo./cancer. but in hindsite, I wouldn't have taken it!

I would like to try acupunture...maybe after income-tax return time!

Still thanking God, my test results were fine. (a little dark shadow keeps saying, what if they got the wrong test results, as I can't remember them asking my name?) silly I know. ohwell.

[Ohwell]

Do not reinstate the Lex. You will only get sicker now...it has been too long.
You will have to tough it out. You can do it...take the supplements and get plenty of rest, don't over-do. Put yourself first for awhile. Let me know how it goes. ohwell.

[Ohwell]

Synthetic vitamins are man made copies.

Natural vitamins are best, and easier on your liver, easier to absorb, and sometimes more expensive. ohwell.

[Ohwell]

remember folks all writing on here are not doctors, just plain folks who have some connection with Lex. use caution when following others directions, ask your doctors if there is a question.

having said that...some folks are complaining about heart issues.
I had racing heartrate, pounding in my chest and a few flutters myself, in the first month off Lex. This is a particular scarey withdrawal in my opinion.
my heart issues went away in the second month off. Good Luck. ohwell.

[wherethehellami?]

Does anyone experience symptoms before it rains? I noticed that on days that it rains or when the pressure changes or whatever I feel more tired.

[Goodlife]

Ohwell:

Sure, you're not doctors... but if I go to my doctor, he tells me that lexapro HAS no withdrawal symptoms. When he put me on lexapro, he told me it did not alter brain chemistry, and that it was just like eating a couple chocolate bars.

Personally, I can't see how asking an ouija board about lexapro could have been worse for me.

[stepoffaith]

Originally Posted by Ohwell

Hey everyone, Just got my great news, praise GOD! My pet scan was clear!
I am so happy! My glands are probably just big from the post nasal drip.
(anyone have a good home rememdy to get rid of post nasal drip?)

Welcome Tatjana....please read pg. 189-190 from this site about correct tapering advice. You don't want to suffer needlessly.

Page 188 has lots of good info. on nutritional supplements you may want
to begin to help you though withdrawal. (fish oil, etc.)

I am just so happy today. What a wonderful early Christmas gift, my cancer isn't returning! ohwell.

I have been off the computer for a few days - but was so happy to hear your news. It is so nice to hear that scan reports can have happy results! Merry St.Nicks and all!

I'm back on to taper and still feeling guilt and angst for giving in. I still have the paranoia for the lump I feel in my neck - with all the posts about throat lumps and swollen glands I am comforted, but still a bit freaked. After going back on, I feel like everything is in slow motion. But, I am sleeping better! Sorry to rub that in to all the newbies.

Hang in there Erin - its got to get better soon!

[Return2Homeostasis]

take the quote from my post on page 222 and give it to your doctor....

[GiGi MacMurray]

I had a great reply to Tat, but it never did send, sorry.
Glad I made you laugh about being twins with the small pupils. I am wondering if I have them because I haven't slept in 2 weeks. I asked a doctor friend (who knows I'm withdrawing) about it, and he said that perhaps I'm a vampire? Ha ha not.
Honestly, had I known that I would have these withdrawal symptoms, I would have waited until after this 3 week Asian trip to taper off. I do have the benefit that this is a luxurious Gulfstream jet, and I have room to lounge comfortably while not tending to my 3 passengers and 2 pilots. I am busy during meal prep and clean-up. I had to chuckle to myself when I got barked at for accidentally bumping into the CEO's large seat when I was passing by him. Hey, dude, the aisles are narrow, I have hips, they sway side to side when I walk. And I thought I was overly-sensitive??
My older sister emailed that she was going to stop taking the anti-depressant she was briefly on during the beginnings of her sarcoma treatment (deadly cancer). She said she wasn't depressed (oh yes she was), but that it was prescribed to her because of excessive hot flashes. I never even told my family I was taking Lex. None of their business.
I have about 110 tablets of 10 mg Lex left over. I hate that they are going to go to waste, but do I donate them to someone who is taking them and can't afford them? Or do I flush them down the toilet? I hate to be wasteful, but I hate even worse to contribute to pushing off a bad drug to someone. Any advice anyone?

[missamy26]

Just an update on my w/d process....

I tapered off of 10mg of Lexapro for almost 7 weeks. Thought I did a pretty good job~no w/d effects, feeling great, etc.

I officially took my last dose (2mg) about 5 days ago. Nothing until about 2 days ago...

Weird things are happening! Every so often, randomly, I feel like a little "buzz" feeling from my head to my toes. It comes fast and goes fast, but it's annoying. Ever stick your tongue on a 9Volt battery? That's what it feels like. When it goes away I feel a little disoriented for a half a sec- like my brain is trying to catch up with my body. Weird.

Also- I have a KILLER headache. It will not go away. Motrin tames it down for a few, but it comes back with a vengence.

And- having some sleeping issues. When I do get to sleep and then wake up, I am drenched in sweat.

All in all though, I can deal with the little buzzies, and even the headache. The sweating? Maybe I am sweating this ******************** right out of me!

It could be a lot worse, and I know that it won't last forever. At least I am off these meds now. I have already lost 2 pounds and haven't even went to the gym.

My advice to anyone trying to taper off- keep at it!

[erinkj]

Originally Posted by Goodlife

Ohwell:

Sure, you're not doctors... but if I go to my doctor, he tells me that lexapro HAS no withdrawal symptoms. When he put me on lexapro, he told me it did not alter brain chemistry, and that it was just like eating a couple chocolate bars.

Personally, I can't see how asking an ouija board about lexapro could have been worse for me.

I second that! If the physicians were on and trying to quit these med's, you can bet these issues would have been figured out a LONG time ago. What do we know? they think we are nuts!

[erinkj]

Originally Posted by wherethehellami?

Does anyone experience symptoms before it rains? I noticed that on days that it rains or when the pressure changes or whatever I feel more tired.

YES! I cannot say for certain if it is because of meds or not. When the barametric pressure rises or drops significantly (as in before it rains, snows, etc) I have increase of frequency and severity of migraine, fatigue and body aches. Sometimes more stuffy nose. I have had some injuries that one may expect to ache from this as in arthritis however, I DO NOT have arthritis and my whole body aches not just the areas previously injured. It has been this way for me at least 7 years. It would not surprise me if it is the meds. Erin

[erinkj]

Originally Posted by GiGi MacMurray

Here I am again, replying to my own post again. Anyway, did anyone else have really small pupils after not taking Lexapro? I look in the mirror when I wake up, and they're sooo small. All during the day they're small. Is this from sunlight? I wear sunglasses when I'm out. I am fair-skinned, blonde, blue-eyed, but this is rather strange to see these little black pupils.

YES! my pupils are still rather small even after one week of reinstating to taper slower. Dont know when that will get back to normal. Erin...

[erinkj]

Originally Posted by tatjanaonlyone

Too funny, I too am Blonde, blue-eyed, and fair skinned, haha, and until you just mentioned it, I did not notice my pupils are in the same shape. HAHAHAHA, this is starting to be funny. I was really annoyed at the situation, but now I see the comedy in it. How crazy is that. I think maybe it's cause I have not slept yet, ya think.

I can not imagine flying around the world during this withdrawal, you are my hero! It takes a REALLY strong person to do what you're doing. Geez, I'm having a hard time dealing with my poor cat (my son) who has a major ear infection in both ears. I was trying to give him his meds after 1/2 hr of cleaning his ears, well he was fed up and just would not open his mouth,lol. I was so out of my mind by this point I started laughing like a lunatic. I woke up my husband, it was 4:30 in the morning, and I was killing myself on the kitchen floor. Long story short, that is about all I can deal with on my plate. Cheers to you GIGI, I would probably go insane on a flight.

Sounds like you are going through a manic phase. Be careful. When I was like that I was so distracted and unable to focus who knows what could have happened. On the flip side, it felt good to have some energy even though it did not last long. Good luck. Erin

[erinkj]

Originally Posted by tatjanaonlyone

Erin,

Don't know if you are reading my posts, but I have the same thing. I had an EKG and it was normal, I still think you should have that done. If yours is normal then I say go do the acupuncture, you don't even feel the needles like most people think, trust me I panic if I just look at one. I really did not believe this would help and I only went once and it was a miracle. I was calm!! No panic attacks since then and that was Saturday. Don't waste time and money on other meds to help, it wiil just make it worse. But like I said still go check it out to be certain there is no prob. Then do the natural stuff.

I am no stranger to the attacks just that xanax ussually calms the heart rate and it hasnt now for 3 days. I hate to go to the Dr cause Ide feel like a hypocondriac but, If it is still a prob in the morning I will go. Needls dont bother me a bit. I have had more stitches, Iv's and needls poked in me than a voodoo doll. I am going to check if my insurance will cover accupuncture. If so, I will do it. I am on celexa 20mg to stabilize at present. back on for 5 days now (I think) maybe accupuncture will help as I taper. Thanks for the tip. Erin...

[erinkj]

Originally Posted by GiGi MacMurray

I tried that neni pot, and just couldn't get the hang of it. It's like one side of my nose doesn't have the draining hole. Weird, I know.
Who knew I'd have withdrawal symptoms and flying a big trip right now would cause me any trouble? I've always thought of myself as quite strong, but this is kicking my butt. I still work out every day, have to, want to lose the dreaded 10 pounds that I gained this past 2 years I was on this drug.
And I've also thought about getting acupuncture. Thanks for the heads up about telling the acupunturist that you're going through withdrawal from an anti-depressant.
Almost had a crying fit today, but not my fault. The cab driver took me to the wrong location, it was hot, I was carrying a very heavy bad with my computer, and I couldn't find where I was (forgot my map). Reminded me of how easily I could fly off the handle when things weren't going well. Talk about control freak, ME. I calmed down once I got out of the tropical heat to some A/C.
For those who doesn't eat fish or fish oil (gag), ground flax seed is a tasty, and nutrient-rich omega 3. I have it on cereal in the morning. Alas, I am in Singapore right now, and wouldn't know where to go to get it ground up. I'll be back in the States in a week.
No clogged up nose from flying. Short flight tomorrow to Kuala Lumpur.
Ringing in the ears? Must be terribly annoying, so I am sorry to hear of the person suffering from that. I would guess any kind of massage would help with the frustration of that withdrawal symptom. I had a leg rub as part of my pedicure yesterday, and almost shouted out with "ahhhhhhs" when she was rubbing me. Just to be touched and carassed was enough to make me forget all these ********************py feelings.
Why is it that in the morning after I sleep, I feel SOOOO much better? I guess my brain is thanking me for resting it. Doesn't last long, soon I get those weak in the knees feeling, brain fog, etc. Really similar to jet lag.
Wish I could go out on a walk with you, Erin. I'd make you happy in no time, just being out and about. And fresh air, you can't beat it.
I read about not taking synthetic vitamins in that "road to recovery" book that someone mentioned. What exactly is a synthetic vitamin? The cheap ones? I am leery in taking any kinds of medications, even Motrin.
Wishing you all good recoveries.
Love,
GiGI

Thanks a million. A walk would be great. It is quit cold here though and I cannot stay warm for anything. I just keep thinking about the beaches on the yucatan, mexico. Wishing hubby and I were there with our friends and walking in the sand, little body surfing. Face turned up to the warmth of the sun. VIVA MEXICO. Hope I can kick all this ******************** before we go back. Hope you are getting better. Erin...

[erinkj]

Originally Posted by Ohwell

Don't care if your family thinks your lazy...If you are in withdrawals from Lex.
you really have to put yourself FIRST. If you "push" your body now, you won't heal as fast, and some on this site think you can actually be predisposed to Cronic Fatigue Syndrome if you don't let your brain heal slowly from pulling the Lex. rug out from under it so to speak...In month 2 of my withdrawal was when I began to get some of my energy back...but Month one was fatigue, fatigue, fatigue! I'm in month 3 now. God Bless. ohwell.

I requested my medical records because I was not sure exactly how long I had been on what, got them today. Looks like I was wrong about a few things. I was on the Lex for 3 years, then celexa for 1 year then back to Lex for 3 months. Now, celexa. ERGH. The Lex was always 20mg. until 3 months ago when the psych DR put me down to 5mg after 1 week up to 10mg, 1 month on 10mg, then down to 5 for 2 weeks then off.Makes sence now why I got soo screwed up. I was up and down and not stable at all before going off. What an idiot. And he makes how much an hour?!!! No wonder I only made it 4 weeks off. Still kicking myself for going back on even though I went back to celexa. I should have just toughed it out. I am on an equivelant to 10mg of lex. dont plan on going up any if I can help it. Reading my records just made me sick, seeing how many years I have been on SSRI meds. Take care dear. Erin...

[erinkj]

Has anyone experienced any type of acne problems while on Lexapro? I have been having trouble with it for several years. Looking at my medical records it correlates to the time I was switched to Lexapro. I also noticed that the 4 weeks I was off the Lex my skin cleared up . I will get some cystic acne sometimes a couple on my face or back even chest. Dermetologists have put me on doxycycline and tetracycline at different times, and that never made it any better. I have had skin peels, retin A, benzoil peroxide, etc, etc. Nothing ever helps. But when I was Lex free for those 4 weeks, not even a slight breakout and my skin cleared up within 2 days. Coincidence? Anyone else get this? Thanks Erin

[erinkj]

Hey, just checking to see how you are doing. I figured you had been busy with your hubby getting home.I am glad to hear that you have been able to get some rest. You need all the sleep you can get especially with little ones to care for. Keep me posted and sleep well. Erin...

[erinkj]

One more question. Has anyone else gotten yellow spots on the whites of their eyes while on meds? I have had this for several years. Sometimes it is noticably darker than others. Any thoughts? Erin

[tavee]

Hi Guys!!

I Dont See Anyone Writing A Lot.
I Hope Everyone Is Doing Ok And Geting Better Slowly.

Hairy, Aunty, Julia Where Are U Guys??

I Am Doing Ok. This Week Is Major Pms. Im Sooooooooooo On Edge And Everything Is Annoying Me Especially This Snowy Weather.
I Have Mild Cramping And Im Hoping I Get This Period Soon Unless Im Pregnant Which Im Pretty Sure I Am Not.

I Have Been Off The Lex Since October And I Am Doing Fine. It Took A Year But It Was Worth It U Guys. So Anyone Out There Trying To Get Off This Stuff, The Secret Is 2-5% Tapers(with The Liquid Lex) Every 2-3 Weeks. The Most Important Thing Is To Take Your Fish Oil Tablets And A Good Multivitamin. Stay Away From Coffee And Exercise.
Trust Me I Had My Share Of Withdrawals When I Tapered More Than 5% At One Point, But U Figure It Out And Everything Falls Into Place.

Let Me Know If U Guys Need Any Help Or Advice.
I Am Here For U Guys.

Have A Wonderful And Blessed Day.
You All Can Do This. It Might Take A While But Eventually U Recover Just Like I Did.

Hugs
Tavee

[erinkj]

Originally Posted by tavee

Hi Guys!!

I Dont See Anyone Writing A Lot.
I Hope Everyone Is Doing Ok And Geting Better Slowly.

Hairy, Aunty, Julia Where Are U Guys??

I Am Doing Ok. This Week Is Major Pms. Im Sooooooooooo On Edge And Everything Is Annoying Me Especially This Snowy Weather.
I Have Mild Cramping And Im Hoping I Get This Period Soon Unless Im Pregnant Which Im Pretty Sure I Am Not.

I Have Been Off The Lex Since October And I Am Doing Fine. It Took A Year But It Was Worth It U Guys. So Anyone Out There Trying To Get Off This Stuff, The Secret Is 2-5% Tapers(with The Liquid Lex) Every 2-3 Weeks. The Most Important Thing Is To Take Your Fish Oil Tablets And A Good Multivitamin. Stay Away From Coffee And Exercise.
Trust Me I Had My Share Of Withdrawals When I Tapered More Than 5% At One Point, But U Figure It Out And Everything Falls Into Place.

Let Me Know If U Guys Need Any Help Or Advice.
I Am Here For U Guys.

Have A Wonderful And Blessed Day.
You All Can Do This. It Might Take A While But Eventually U Recover Just Like I Did.

Hugs
Tavee

what dosage did you taper down from? Do you mind me asking what you were on Lex for? It took you a year to taper off completely? or did you taper to fast at some point and have to reinstate like me, to taper off the right way? I ask because I have been on one SSRI or another constantly for 11 years. The more success stories I hear, the more encouraged I am. I want off the meds, I want my LIFE back! thanks. Erin...