Side Effects Of Sleep Apnea

Frequently Asked Questions

1. QUESTION:
   How does one treat the side effects of "Long-Term" Sleep Apnea?
   I have had sleep apnea for over 20 years now, and have been using a C-PAP for 10 years. My rest and energy levels are better(not fantastic, but better). But I am still dealing with the long-term effects of Oxygen starvation to my brain: Lack of concentration, lack of focus on difficult tasks, very bad memory, both short term and long term.

   I have tried Stratera and Prozac, both suggested by my doctor, and they did not seem to help much. Has anyone else with OSA struggled with this problem, or perhaps overcome it?

   When answering, please keep in mind that I am not talking about untreated OSA. As I said, I have been on a properly-calibrated C-PAP for 10 years now. My problem seems to be more on the level of "Brain Damage"....

   • ANSWER:
     If I were you, I would find a support group for sleep apnea on the internet and ask the people who have experience in this.

2. QUESTION:
   What are the possible side effects of a cpap machine? Does anyone know any natural cures for sleep Apnea/?

   • ANSWER:
     The machine is noisy -- it might effect anyone sleeping with you. I found the mask itself to be very uncomfortable and that prevented me from sleeping until I got used to it.

3. QUESTION:
   Is removal of tonsils a must for sleep apnea?
   My kid has a mild sleep apnea that is 5 episodes that lasts about 10 second in the hour on average. The ENT specialist is recommending a surgery to remove tonsils. My question : Is this absolutely required given it is a mind case(as I have been told)? Any side effect/longterm effect if I don't get this done? Will this surgery absolutey cure the sleep apnea?
   Thanks in advance for your kind advice.

   • ANSWER:
     In most cases for children, yes, having the tonsils removed will fix the apnea issues. Surgery is never a 100% guarantee. Not having it done could result in possible continuation of the airway being blocked, which will lead to future health issues. Anything from just being extra tired, feeling like there's a lack of rest although you have a full nights sleep, to serious issues, like Hypertension, Heart Disease, Stroke, Obesity, Depression and so on.

     If you still have serious concerns, you can always get a second opinion. I would just talk to your EMT again and express you're concerns.

     Hope it works out well for your kid : )

4. QUESTION:
   What Are The Side Effects Of Prozac?
   i have PTSD and Depression and i think ocd or something and i just been prescribed prozac 10mg. What are the side effects? will they kill me? how does it work,and will they interfere with my sleep apnea or high blood pressure medication..which is hctz 25g. what are the good benefits of taking the medication..Please answer ASAP..Please&thank u
   im 18 years old

   • ANSWER:
     Benefits: helps you cope with depression and anxiety, will reduce the bad feelings you get from anxiety
     Cons: you can't drink much alcohol while taking this medication, or for 6 months after stopping the medication, since it will remain in your body for half a year

5. QUESTION:
   Have you had good or bad results from sleep apnea surgerty?
   I've had positive feedback so far from everyone who has told me of their surgery. However, the doctors seem to do everything possible to discourage it, claiming it is often ineffective, painful, and has negative side effects. I suspect the doctors' attitudes may be influenced by HMO policy and liability considerations. Would like feedback from people who have actually had the surgery or are close to someone who has had it.
   That's "surgery", not "surgerty".

   • ANSWER:
     the doctors want do because its not an iminent surgery, your life is not in danger if you stay like that, and dont want to risk the 5-6% chance of mortality in this tipe of surgery, if you can live like that. But if you want to do it anyway, go ahead, but you have to consider that this is a surgery on the brain...!....but if you are not an 60-70 years old man with low immunity, than you have 99.99% for succes

6. QUESTION:
   Sleep apnea project abstract-which one?
   My partner and I are disagreeing about the wording for our abstract. Would someone rewrite it using both or just give your opinion on which one i should use?

   OPTION 1

   Over 20 million Americans suffer some degree of sleep apnea; those who do suffer from Sleep Apnea, are prone to suffer from excessive sleepiness, waking frequently throughout the night, morning headaches, and severe side effects on the heart and circulation. This project was designed to inform those suffering, or those who know someone suffering from Sleep Apnea.
   Data was extracted from many reliable sources, along with a live interview. It was determined that sleep apnea is not widely known and often goes undiagnosed. The general population has probably already been exposed to Sleep Apnea without knowing it. There are few cases that have negative repercussions that may be life threatening, and require a doctor's assistance.
   The doctor revealed that there are many different treatments available for sleep apnea that can help to reduce, if not eliminate, the side effects. It is recommended that you should begin a healthy diet to help reduce Sleep Apnia, some healthy measure you can take are: Avoid alcohol and sedatives, some medications are designed to keep the patient breathing overnight. People with sleep apnea can also use a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) mask or a BIPAP (Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure) mask to relieve the symptoms. In severe cases, surgery may be required to relieve the symptoms.
   More people need to know about sleep apnea because it could be depriving them of sleep and contributing to high blood pressure and other circulatory problems. This could inspire people to go consult their doctor about their sleeping patterns and get treatment if it's needed.

   OPTION 2

   Over 20 million Americans suffer some degree of sleep apnea; all of these people are in danger for side effects such as excessive sleepiness, waking frequently throughout the night, morning headaches, and severe side effects on the heart and circulation. This project was created to inform people about this condition so they can help themselves or family members that may be suffering.

   Data was extracted from many reliable sites, pamphlets, books, and from a live interview with sleep expert. It was determined that sleep apnea is not widely known and often goes undiagnosed. The general population needs to be informed about this condition because there can be life-threatening repercussions that require being treated by a doctor.

   The doctor revealed that there are many different treatments available for sleep apnea that can help to reduce, if not eliminate, the side effects. It is recommended that people with sleep apnea should lose a reasonable amount of weight in healthy ways, avoid alcohol and sedatives, can use medication to stimulate the brain to keep the patient breathing throughout the entire night. People with sleep apnea can also use a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) mask or a BIPAP (Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure) mask to relieve the symptoms. In severe cases, surgery could be needed to relieve the symptoms.

   More people need to know about sleep apnea because it could be what's causing their sleep deprivation and contributing to high blood pressure and other circulatory problems. This could inspire people to go consult their doctor about their sleeping patterns and get treatment if it's needed.

   • ANSWER:
     Either are fine but you have some incorrect information. I would clarify that you are discussing obstructive sleep apnea and not central. With that being the case, there is no medication to treat it. I would also clarify who the sleep expert is. Is at an RPSGT, RRT or a board certified physician in sleep medicine. Surgery is not the answer for severe cases unless you are talking about a tracheotomy. Any other surgery is less than 50 percent effective and that is only if they know exactly where the obstruction is and if you are discussing central sleep apnea, surgery will not work. The only recommended treatment for CSA is BiPapST. It is like a ventilator but only with a mask. If you are looking at the second option, 2nd paragraph last sentence I would changed treated by a doctor to requires to be diagnosed and given proper treatment. I hope you realize that OTC measure do not work they only mask the symptoms. Algoll and sedatives only make it worse. Avoiding them will not eliminate a person from having OSA. People who are thin and children can also have sleep apnea. Weight loss will help but OSA should be treated in the meantime with CPAP, autopap, or bipap. Standard Bipap is generally only used for people with high pressures or people who retain CO2.

     Please email me.

7. QUESTION:
   HELP - What is the best surgery for sleep apnea?
   I am scheduled for a UPPP in six weeks and am worried that it might not be the best option. I have already tried the CPAP and I can't sleep with it on. I have another appointment scheduled with my ENT to discuss all the options.

   Here's the deal: My tonsils are enlarged and have been since childhood. As far back as I can remember I have always had trouble with waking during the night. I am not overweight (and certainly not obese). Would a tonsillectomy alone likely fix the problem? Or should some of the soft palate be removed as well? The problem is that a UPPP is very invasive, statistically has a low success rate over the long term, and sometimes has bizarre side effects.

   Can anyone who has had sleep apnea surgery give me some pointers?

   • ANSWER:
     My husband just had this surgery, the UPPP. It was horribly painful, but very effective. He too had used a CPAP with little success. This surgery was immensely helpful with his snoring, and waking. The recovery was pretty brutal, liquids and frozen things for the first couple of days at least. He still, 3 months later, has some episodes of things coming out of his nose, but we just laugh at him. After 2 weeks he said he wouldn't do it again. 3 months later, he can't believe he waited so long to do it. I guess it just depends on your pain threshold and how desperate you are to remedy the situation.

8. QUESTION:
   What are the effects of Rhodiola (used as an antidepressant) on insomniacs?
   Because Rhodiola's side effects include the loss of sleep and partial or full insomnia, I am a bit concerned about its effects on me, due to the fact that I already have long-term insomnia and possible sleep apnea.

   • ANSWER:
     well it's an upper and it's not going to help.

9. QUESTION:
   How can I get better relief for sleep apnea?
   I am only 25 yrs old and have sleep apnea, the obstructive form. I completed two sleep studies that have confirmed this but, medicaid will not pay for the c-pap machine b/c the score for my study reflect that it is not "severe" enough for them to pay. Now, I am using provigil as a "band-aid" its okay, but the side effects are causing me headaches and I take seasonique birth control pills, I was told there was a 5% chance of impregnation, which is low, but I still worry a little. My doctor's office was suppose to put me on a list to get a "loaner" and/or "free" c-pap machine, but I was told yesterday that this will only be considered after I start regularly seeing the doctor while I am on the provigil and still maybe not until January, if then. I am suppose to graduate form college in may, I need this sleeping disoreder corrected asap, it is effecting my life horribly and my education. Thanks serious responses only.

   • ANSWER:
     if your sleep study doctor will write a Rx for a cpap machine call home life oxygen 901 373 3503, talk with greg (owner), he might rent you a unit inexpensively by the month, or perhaps sell you a used unit for a very low price. he's worked with many sleep apnea persons. he may even have a way to get reimbursement for your need.

     self help might be useful, i.e. sleep at a forty five degree angle, try a neck flexion cushion to maintain the angle in your throat while sleeping, try using the nasal strips at night to keep your upper airways open, and lastly ask your doctor for other tips that may be very inexpensive or no expense at all.

10. QUESTION:
    should people take quetiapine fumarate if they have sleep apnea?
    My husband just came home with the medication from the VA and one of the side effects is extreme sleepiness. I know that if you have sleep apnea, medications with extreme sleepiness can aggravate your sleep apnea. His DR's are closed for the weekend, but I am worried he will have a bad attack. Anyone know about the medication? Any information is helpful. Thxs.
    The VA is EXTREMELY slow about things and they refuse to get him a CPAP machine until THEY test him. He had a test done in the military, but that wasn't good enough. And the problem is, they keep pushing his sleep study back further and further.

    • ANSWER:
      I can't speak to sleep apnea, but I can tell you that Seroquel is extremely sedating! It also make me congested the first couple hours. Everyone doesn't get that, but I've talked to others who do. First night you should probably watch him. It's good medicine, btw.

11. QUESTION:
    Are there any serious side effects when taking paxil?
    ok i am 18 years old and i am 287 lbs.I dont have diabetes,but the last time i checked my blood pressure was a lil high nun to serious.and i have sleep apnea.Now with all that i have will it effect with me taking paxil??? like will i be harmed or get sick or anything??? wILL I STOP BREATHING IN MY SLEEP :-O! Ok i was diagnosed with ptsd and depression a few days ago and i have been prescribed to take paxil. this is my 3rd day taking it. i been reading things on line about paxil and its kind of scaring me. I mean i will never think about killing myself so how does a pill make you have suicidal thoughts? and what other serious side effects does this pill have can somebody please tell me?PLEASE TELL ME BECAUSE WHAT IM READING IS REALLY STARTIN TO SCARE ME
    omg is it that serious guys?? and when does those suicidal thoughts supposed to kick in? like will them thoughts be something i cannot control like as if i was sleepwalking or something? because i will never kill myself because i dont wanna leave my nephews. im scared that it wuld be like something just all of a sudden come over me and i go crazy..will it be like that? Also i am trying to loose weight,would it interfere with me working out because i have a membership at LA fitness. When will the side effects kick in? i am so scared because i dont want to die i want to achieve my goals..Mann i just turned 18. i dont want anything bad happening to me. Will the side effects be more worse because im overweight?? please answer these questions you guys..THANK U
    READ THIS: Ok help i wanna stop taking paxil..all the things you guy said are scaring me i have only taking 3 pills. i cant get in touch with my doctor today because today is sunday..so i will probably take another one tonight so that would be 4 pills. so can i stop taking them?? because ill be damned if i start to have suicidal thoughts or gain any more weight than i already am. please answer this question

    • ANSWER:

12. QUESTION:
    Fibromyalgia, Sleep Apnea, Chronic Fatigue, unrestorative sleep?
    I have Fibromyalgia, Sleep Apnea (which is being corrected by using a C-Pap machine at night. I also have chronic fatigue due to the fact that I never get refreshing sleep. No matter how poorly or how well I feel that I sleep, I never feel rested. I have had 3 sleep studies and the results are always the same. I definitely have Sleep Apnea with Alpha Wave intrusions. I have been on several medications to no avail. Now my new sleep specialist wants me to to try either Xyrem at night (actually the date rape drug) or Provigil during the day, which is a stimulant. I'm at my wits end. Both drugs have awful side effects and really scare me. I have Cardiomyopathy and the Provigil would be dangerous to my heart problem. The side effects of Xyrem are very scarey. I hope there is someone out there that can share their experiences with me. I am soooooooooooooooo tired. I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired. Help please!!!!!!!

    • ANSWER:
      Hi Skat

      You are at a breaking point I can tell. And that's usually what it takes to break one's daily pattern. Learning about the concepts below will change your health tremendously. Start making decisions for yourself by taking control of your health. It starts with water, organic food, exercise, and being thankful for all you have in your life.
      What you think about, you get more of. THis simple concept is called "The Law of Attraction". If you focus on the negative's then you get more of them. Same application applies to the positive. Feeling the positive energy in your life will change your world very quickly.

      I would do either of the following for your pain: Reiki, Healing Touch, and Therapeutic Touch, all of which can significantly improve fibromyalgia pain symptoms, and which can be taught to patients as a form of self-care, as well as being provided by professional energy healers.

      Causes of Fibromyalgia
      There is not one specific cause for primary fibromyalgia. Certain common features among fibromyalgia patients provide a better idea as to the primary factors that are involved in its onset, however. These include dental amalgam fillings, hormone imbalances, infection, neurotransmitter imbalances, sleep problems, problems with the thalamus gland, and physical trauma. Other factors that can play a role include chemical and food allergies and sensitivities, chronic stress, and dysfunctions in system.muscle metabolism.

      Conventional physicians treat fibromyalgia primarily through the use of painkiller medications. Such an approach fails to address the multiple causes of fibromyalgia, and also carries with it the risk of serious side effects. In addition, this symptom care approach is typical of conventional medicine`s failure to properly understand chronic health conditions such as fibromyalgia, which explains why it so often fails to successfully treat such conditions. Practitioners of alternative medicine, on the other hand, focus their treatment approaches on the multiple factors involved in fibromyalgia in order to eliminate them, while simultaneously stimulating the body`s ability to repair itself. What follows is an overview of some of the most common therapies they employ in order to achieve those goals

      Quick Action Plan for Fibromyalgia

      1. A healthy, whole foods diet is an important part of any fibromyaglia treatment program. Emphasize organic foods, especially fresh, organic vegetables, and drink plenty of pure, filtered water (I drink a gallon a day) throughout the day. For even more benefits, consider adopting a vegetarian diet, which has been shown to significantly reduce fibromyalgia symptoms.

      2. Essential nutrients to help treat fibromyalgia include vitamin C, vitamin E, niacinimide (vitamin B3), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA-an essential fatty acid), magnesium, selenium, zinc, and the lipotrophic factors inositol, methionine, and phosphatidyl choline. The nutritional supplements cetyl myristoleate and SAMe are also highly beneficial, as it the Meyers Cocktail, which must be administered by a trained health care practitioner.

      3. Herbal remedies for fibromyalgia include cayenne and chamomile. An herbal combination of tinctures of black cohosh, celery, dandelion, devil`s claw, Echinacea, and licorice in equal parts, can also be helpful.

      4. Homeopathic remedies for fibromyalgia include Arnica, Bryonia, and Rhus. Tox.

      5. Various bodywork therapies, such as Massage, Acupressure, Bowen Therapy, Feldenkrais, myotherapy, Rolfing, Shiatsu, Therapeutic Touch, and Trigger Point Therapy, can provide significant relief of fibromyalgia pain and speed healing.

      6. Mind/body medicine therapies such as biofeedback, guided imagery and visualization, hypnotherapy, and meditation, can help relieve chronic stress, thereby soothing muscle tension and reducing pain

      7. Be sure to do a colon and liver cleanse to clean out the toxins in the colon and the blood. Most important step is cleansing and detoxifying the body.

      Best of health to you

13. QUESTION:
    Throat Surgery for Sleep Apnea (UPPP)?
    I have been diagnosed with fairly bad sleep apnea. I stop breathing several times a night (I average 8 times an hour that I have a breathing issue) and my O2 levels drop to the mid 70s (which is very low). As a result I am having UPPP (Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty) in the spring, which is surgery to trim my soft palate and uvula, and at this time they'll remove my tonsils and the remains of my adenoids (I had them removed when I was six, but they grew back partially).

    What are some side effects of this surgery? I've heard that it'll screw up my voice--will it make it higher pitched or lower?
    (Yes I know, ask the doctor about the side effects, I already have. I was wondering about people who have had the surgery).

    • ANSWER:
      Go for a second opinion. A UPPP has limited success rate. Taking out your tonsil and adenoids as an adult is painful. The surgery only works if this is the area of obstruction. Doctors are not good at picking out where the site of the obstruction is. You have already had your TAs grow back. Your uvula will as well. Scar tissue is horrible. The only surgery that is 100 percent effective is a tracheotomy.

      CPAP and or a dental device is a far better option

      Make sure your sleep specialist is board certified in sleep. suggests a pulmonologist or a neurologist not and ENT.(only my opinion) I think surgery is a radical move when it has limited success and CPAP works. surgeon only makes money if he does surgery.

      My uncle had the surgery. He sleep apnea is worse than ever. I use xpap route and feel way better than he does.

14. QUESTION:
    Sleep apnea and pregnancy?
    I'm currently 38+ weeks pregnant. Last night, while I was *trying* to sleep, I woke myself several times gasping for air. I guess I had stopped breathing. I also have a bit of congestion from a cold I had last week, so I'm not sure what to attribute it to.
    I'm not too concerned, I know this can be a bad condition, but I'm not on any narcotics or anything that would prevent me from waking myself up, so I really see myself in no danger now.
    I see my OB on Monday, and plan on asking him about this, but in the meantime - has anyone experienced sleep apnea during pregnancy? Is it a fairly common side effect late in pregnancy?

    • ANSWER:
      I dont know if what i have would be classified as "apnea" but it is SOOOO hard for me to breath, and i wake up feeling like i have no air, gasping. I think my problem is the baby hasnt fully dropped yet, so shes just sitting on my lungs. I have propped several pillows up, and i lay on my back with a huge incline now, just so i can sleep a few hours at a time. If your baby hasnt dropped either, that could be the reason.
      Its scary and annoying!!

15. QUESTION:
    klonopin side effects?
    I was recently put on luvox cr along with klonopin after my psychiatrist thought the prozac wasn't helping as much as needed. the luvox, unfortunately, isn't covered by my insurance so i have only been taking the klonopin, like instructed. my psychiatrist said that whenever i am having a panic attack i can take a pill, so that's what i have been doing. it hasn't been every day that i have been doing this but the days that i do take the klonopin, i snore EXTREMELY loud. my boyfriend can't get any sleep at night from it and it's almost impossible to wake me up. i've always been a snorer, but not a loud snorer. just soft little snores.

    i don't know if this is from the klonopin or if i have sleep apnea. sleep apnea strongly runs in my family and i was told to get checked for it, but i didn't think it was a big deal as of now.

    i am on .5 mg of the klonopin for the mean time but when the panics are bad, i take more than the recommended dose.

    • ANSWER:

16. QUESTION:
    I went to sleep doc & talked about depression & anxiety. He put me on LEXAPRO. Any Suggestions on it ?
    I have 3 boys ages 7, 4, and almost 2. They are great kids. I also have a loving husband. He is a big help and a great dad. He is very supportive to me and the kids. I have some stress issues and I went to see my sleep apnea doctor. He recomended that I try LEXAPRO for a while. I was wondering if any of you have tried it and what were your side effects?

    • ANSWER:
      My husband was started on Lexapro about 6 months ago, and let me tell you, he is a new man. He is so happy and mostly worry-free now.

      In the first month or so, our sex life suffered. He had no drive whatsoever. It returned after that first month, and that was the only thing we've experienced so far. From our experience, side effects were definitely minimal. I would give it a shot

17. QUESTION:
    Help, RX sleep aids, I DO NOT want to get high?
    I want to sleep, oh precious sleep! Bear with me this is going to be long but I need some help, my doctor doesn't seem to want to explore other options.

    Two years ago, I had a sleep apnea test, negative. Once I am asleep I am ok, I can sleep for 8-13 hours depending on how much sleep my body needed.

    However, falling asleep is near to impossible.

    Two years ago, I was given ambien. I would take it and lay down and try to sleep. All that would happen is that I would either hallucinate or wake my husband up for marital fun...and hallucinate. Its "half-life" left me feeling floaty. I know that sounds silly but that's the best description I have for it. If I fell asleep, I would sleep very well and loved that about it. I could not stand the hallucinations, they scare me.

    I did not go a year ago to get more from my doctor.

    I was doing ok, but, I didn't have a job or any obligation that required a normal sleep schedule.

    We were moved to KY(military) in May. I have a job and my sleep pattern began interfering with my job. Talked to the doctor about ambien and she thought lunesta would be better.

    So, I was given lunesta last week. I took it for three nights. Same thing as ambien, just no hallucinations. However, my quality of sleep was a little better or I was so tired that the deep sleep "was what the doctor ordered." However, lunesta has the nastiest aftertaste ever! It lasts all day, I haven't had one for almost 48 hours and I can still taste it. It is interfering with my life more than hallucinations ever did. Even water tastes wrong. TERRIBLE.

    So, my problem is falling asleep and my quality of sleep after I have fallen asleep.

    Is there another RX that will knock me out and keep me that way? I have tried antihistamines to help sleep, since the side effect is drowsiness. Doesn't work. I have tried, legally, norco to see if that put me to sleep. Doesn't work.

    Old fashion warm glass of milk, chamomile or any other natural alternatives leave me warm, smelling good and wide awake. I don't have caffeine five hours prior to sleep, I don't eat two hours prior to sleep, I sleep with the lights off and have no entertainment devices on. I lay in a dark very comfortable room next to my husband and end up staring at the ceiling for hours.

    OTC medications do not work.

    I need something that will put me to sleep and then its half-life keep me asleep for about six hours. Does this exist?!

    I have currently been awake for 28hrs and am getting drowsy from exhaustion. I might not answer any questions until later but please help. I am at my wits end with this.

    • ANSWER:
      No - it does not exist. At least not anything that does not have a severe price to pay in the form of addiction and side effects. Enough ambien will do exactly this, knock you out for several hours, but ambien is extremely addictive, and very quickly takes away from the brain the ability to sleep without more ambien. You have no idea the hell ambien will make of your life it you take it for too long. And one or two weeks is too long.

      Flush the ambien and lunesta. They may knock you out, they may not, but what they will do is make it even harder for you to fall alseep without taking them. They quickly take away from the brain the ability to sleep, and it only takes a couple of nights for this to start happening. They are the WORST thing your idiot doctor could have given you. If you take them once a week at the most, you might not develop problems from them, but that is about the limit. My doctor told me it takes a week of recovery for every week you take ambien or lunesta. A week of miserable insomnia, with added anxiety because anxiety is a very common side effect and withdrawal symptom of these drugs. He seldom prescribes it because it is so harsh on the brain. You take it three nights in a row, and I guarantee you that you will not sleep if you don't take it the fourth night. It acts that quickly to take away from your brain the ability to fall alseep.

      Your doctor should have done a complete physical and blood workup to make sure there is nothing physically wrong with you. If he didn't, go see another doctor and get this done ASAP!

      Other than checking for obvious medical/physical problems, there is little more your doctor can do but give you drugs. It is all they know how to do, because few doctors understand insomnia, and fewer still know what to do about it besides give you drugs. Drugs is how they treat sleeping problems. Unfortunately, drugs do not fix or cure insomnia, they just make it worse.

      You might consider seeing a psychologist and discussing this with them. They are the ones most qualified to help you resolve this issue, and without drugs. Many of them specialize or otherwise know a lot about anxiety and insomnia.

      Keep searching - go to your local library and you will find several good books on anxiety and insomnia (anxiety can keep you awake, and the self-help methods for anxiety are powerful and work for insomnia also). I've learned more from a few good books than I have from any doctor I've ever visited.

      Consider alternative medical options - chiropractic, acupuncture, herbs, aromatherapy, herbs, etc. There is some truth in all of these techniques, and some of them may help you.

      Kava and valerian root with a touch of melatonin can help. There are OTC herbal sleep preparations you can get at most any drug store or major big box store (Wal-Mart, etc.) with a good mixture of these. Try a few sleep CDs or some sleep self hypnosis/relaxation CDs. You can get them as MP3s and wear your mp3 player to bed instead of having to use a CD player if you wish. Also, sleep CDs as background music can help.

      Keep searching - different things work for different people, you just need to find the right combination that works for you. Resolving insomnia like this is not always easy, but it can be done.

18. QUESTION:
    Can Medicare and Medicaid deny me a prescription medicine?
    I am disabled and on Medicare and state Medicaid. I went to a sleep clinic and had what is called a sleep study. I don't have sleep apnea or any other problem accept for not being able to fall asleep. If I do fall asleep, I'm not sleep for very long. So I have been put on many sleeping pills. One stopped working, 2 of them left me with horrible side-effects and the one I'm taking now isn't strong enough to put me to sleep. There are two more that I could try, but my doctor said either Medicaid or Medicare won't pay for them, she couldn't remember which one. If I've tried everything they say I should try on their list of medicines, is there a chance my doctor could convince them to pay for something that does work?

    • ANSWER:
      Both medicare and medicaid work off of formularies of covered medications. The majority of medications are covered but not everything.

19. QUESTION:
    Sleep Disorder similar to "Sleep Paralysis" (LONG QUESTION) Urgent need of help.?
    Can someone PLEASE help me, I'm in urgent need of advice! Please don't recommend seeing a doctor, they're expensive, I don't want to go for unnecessary tests, etc - A doctor is my last resort.
    I've read into "Sleep Apnea" and the symptoms are similar, but it's not the same thing.
    Symptoms such as:
    *Waking with an unrefreshed feeling after sleep, having problems with memory and concentration, feeling tired, and experiencing personality changes.
    *Morning or night headaches.
    *Sweating and chest pain while sleeping.
    *Nighttime choking or gasping spells.

    I do not snore in my sleep (which is a number one sign of sleep apnea), I don't sleep on my back which could cause me to choke/gasp for breath.
    The symptoms I DO experience ARE:
    *Shaking/sweating until I wake up (Clothes are usually soaked at this point)
    *Extreme nightmares every night
    *Feeling paralyzed, unable to speak but I am awake. I can feel my eyes roll back and I'm fighting to wake from this but struggle. I can feel i'm breathing properly so I know I'm not lacking oxygen. I can feel my muscles spasaming. After a few minutes or seconds I finally break out of this and gasp for breath and feel exhausted from fighting the feeling.

    Most of the time I feel as if i'm "falling" when I go through the "paralysis". If I don't try fight the feeling, it grows worse and worse until I start panicking because it's so scary then I HAVE to fight it in the end.
    I'm not sure if i've experienced this as a child before. I am on medication for depression, bi polar disorder and mild schizophrenia. (None of the medication side effects list any of the symptoms I experience)
    I don't know if there are sleeping disorders in our family history.

    Please, do not answer with childish comments related to drugs.

    • ANSWER:
      Regarding the sleep paralisis: You can learn to get out of it by learning to control your breathing. You have to consciously breathe differently so your body realizes you are awake and breaks the sleep paralysis. Experiment with different breathing patterns, like breathing more deeply, or faster, or whatever.

20. QUESTION:
    Effexor: For people who are taking or who have taken it?
    For anyone familiar with effexor, you know the side effects of withdrawl. The dizziness, or brain shivers, is the most noticeable. I have also noticed in the past month or so that when I forget to take it that when I've just fallen asleep I wake up gasping for breath and my heart pounding. It happens about four times before it finally goes away for the night. I thought at first it was sleep apnea, however it only happens when I've forgotten to take the effexor. I asked my psychiatrist about it and he said it sounded like panic attacks. He never heard of panic attacks as a symptom of effexor withdrawl. I never have had panic attacks before so I am just wondering if anyone else has had panic attacks as a withdrawl symptom from effexor.
    On a side note, even though effexor has done wonders for my mental health, why would a drug company continue to manufacture a medication with such bad effects from withdrawl?
    Like I already wrote, it happens only wh en I haven't taken my effexor so I don't think it's sleep apnea. My MD also said you don't usually wake up if you have sleep apnea.

    • ANSWER:
      Check out this site. People that take medications, rate the medication and list the side effects they have experienced.

      www.askapatient.com

      Where it says search, type in Effexor.

21. QUESTION:
    Anybody else with a child with a sleep disorder or ADHD?
    We've been treating my son for ADHD for several years and have had problems with the side effects of meds. He's now on Strattera but it didn't seem to be helping this school year. So we've increased the dose twice (he did have a growing spurt last summer - he's 14). This still isn't helping. Well, in going over my symptoms related to possible sleep apnea with the doctor, I had an "ah-ha" moment that my son has the same symptoms. Low and behold he does have a disorder. However it hasn't yet been diagnosed with a sleep study (coming up next week).

    So I just want to put a bug in parents' ears that if your child is being treated for ADHD and the meds are not working, perhaps you want to speak to your doctor about the possibility of a sleeping disorder.

    But for my question.... Has anybody else experienced a child at school who absolutely will not do his work and found out a sleeping disorder was the cause? Please tell me about your story and if treating the disorder helped your child do better in school.
    Yes, seeing an ENT and removal of tonsils and/or adenoids is the expected treatment. Thanks for responses!
    I'm agreeing that sleeping disorders should be looked into before giving drugs for ADHD. I wish someone would have asked if my son snored years ago!
    Thanks for all responses...hard to choose!

    • ANSWER:
      not my child, but one of my kids' classmates. he was so attention-challenged he ended up having to repeat a year. they discovered the sleep apnea, removed his tonsils, and presto, the problem was fixed.

      seems like something doctors should be screening for before diagnosing ADHD in the first place.....

22. QUESTION:
    I've been told that I 'click' when I sleep. Any ideas?
    I've found only one article online suggesting sleep apnea but I have no idea. I've had my tonsils and adenoids removed when I was young due to snoring problems so I thought maybe it was just a side effect to that. I never paid attention to my sleeping habits and do not know if I stop breathing during the night. I dream a lot and wake up often due to bad dreams but other than that I have no ideas. Is the clicking something I should be concerned of or is it normal?

    • ANSWER:
      That clicking might mean you grind your teeth in your sleep. I would be concerned as it's possible to damage the enamel on your teeth. Fortunately any good dentist can correct the problem by making you a protective mouthpiece.

23. QUESTION:
    Derealization/GAD caused by weed?
    So it all started back in November. I smoked some really strong marijuana (only a couple hits) and the world suddenly seemed far too scary for me. I was having a huge panic attack - my mind was racing extremely fast, I was even getting mild hallucinations. As soon as the thought of "I need to go to the hospital" came across my mind, it wouldn't go away. So I went to the hospital. The 4 other kids I smoked with were completely fine, and it turns out the marijuana was not laced with anything.

    Ever since that day back in November, I've been going through a constant panic. I was put on Lexapro 10mg and Zyprexa 1.25-2.5. After a week, it felt like I was almost back to normal. A week after that, everything went back downhill. Since then I've tried: Effexor, Paxil, Tranxene, Klonopin, Xanax, Valium, Imipramine.. hell nothing seems to work. Right now I'm on Prozac 20mg and Remeron 7.5mg for sleep.

    The side effects of what I have are dreadful. It feels like I'm in a constant fog, detached from reality. I have had derealization in the past, but I was able to handle it. My mind turns out totally random thoughts, that make no sense whatsoever. This feeling of impending doom is always over shadowing me. My thoughts - WAY too deep. I begin questioning things like: Why am I alive? How can I see/feel anything at all? How strange is it than we communicate through different languages? What if my mind is just creating all my surroundings? What happens when I die? I've also noticed far too many coincidences. I had a dream about my old principle who I hadn't seen in years. The next day, sure enough, I saw him. A song runs through my head, I turn the radio on, and what do ya know it's playing. I have a sudden flash of one of my old friends. 2 minutes later I run into his mom at the store. Several things similar to this.

    I almost never hang out with my friends anymore because of this dread that is overwhelming me. I'm 19 and in college, and instead of going out on the weekends with my friends and having fun, I sit at home and drown in my terrifying thoughts. I still stay busy, don't get me wrong. I work a full-time job and still have 3 online classes going on (But I had to leave school and move back home because of all this).

    I miss my life. I want it back. I miss worrying about normal things like: I didn't study enough for this test I'm going to fail... I have no money... feeling blue after a break up. Kind of sad that I miss these things, but I do.

    I NEED HELP. Please don't suggest natural ways of healing this. St. Johns Wort, valerian root, kava, magnesium, meditation, or any of those things simply do not work. Is it possible that I was mis-diagnosed (GAD)? No PTSD or any of that. The first panic attack I ever had was because of a strobe light.. Epilepsy? But that was the only time I had problems with lights. My girlfriend mentions that I started snoring, and breathe very weird when I sleep.. my Dad has terrible sleep apnea, but I feel like that wouldn't cause all the problems I'm going through.

    Any suggestions/comments are appreciated! I just want to get back on track, my life seems like it's slipping away from me.

    • ANSWER:
      Yee GADS!
      This is a bunch of B.S. Not buying any of what your laying down.
      Blah, blah - derealization troll.

      Speak to the Dr. prescribing all those meds about the therapy you need.

24. QUESTION:
    Anxiety/Derealization caused by marijuana?
    So it all started back in November. I smoked some really strong marijuana (only a couple hits) and the world suddenly seemed far too scary for me. I was having a huge panic attack - my mind was racing extremely fast, I was even getting mild hallucinations. As soon as the thought of "I need to go to the hospital" came across my mind, it wouldn't go away. So I went to the hospital. The 4 other kids I smoked with were completely fine, and it turns out the marijuana was not laced with anything.

    Ever since that day back in November, I've been going through a constant panic. I was put on Lexapro 10mg and Zyprexa 1.25-2.5. After a week, it felt like I was almost back to normal. A week after that, everything went back downhill. Since then I've tried: Effexor, Paxil, Tranxene, Klonopin, Xanax, Valium, Imipramine.. hell nothing seems to work. Right now I'm on Prozac 20mg and Remeron 7.5mg for sleep.

    The side effects of what I have are dreadful. It feels like I'm in a constant fog, detached from reality. I have had derealization in the past, but I was able to handle it. My mind turns out totally random thoughts, that make no sense whatsoever. This feeling of impending doom is always over shadowing me. My thoughts - WAY too deep. I begin questioning things like: Why am I alive? How can I see/feel anything at all? How strange is it than we communicate through different languages? What if my mind is just creating all my surroundings? What happens when I die? I've also noticed far too many coincidences. I had a dream about my old principle who I hadn't seen in years. The next day, sure enough, I saw him. A song runs through my head, I turn the radio on, and what do ya know it's playing. I have a sudden flash of one of my old friends. 2 minutes later I run into his mom at the store. Several things similar to this.

    I almost never hang out with my friends anymore because of this dread that is overwhelming me. I'm 19 and in college, and instead of going out on the weekends with my friends and having fun, I sit at home and drown in my terrifying thoughts. I still stay busy, don't get me wrong. I work a full-time job and still have 3 online classes going on (But I had to leave school and move back home because of all this).

    I miss my life. I want it back. I miss worrying about normal things like: I didn't study enough for this test I'm going to fail... I have no money... feeling blue after a break up. Kind of sad that I miss these things, but I do.

    I NEED HELP. Please don't suggest natural ways of healing this. St. Johns Wort, valerian root, kava, magnesium, meditation, or any of those things simply do not work. Is it possible that I was mis-diagnosed (GAD)? No PTSD or any of that. The first panic attack I ever had was because of a strobe light.. Epilepsy? But that was the only time I had problems with lights. My girlfriend mentions that I started snoring, and breathe very weird when I sleep.. my Dad has terrible sleep apnea, but I feel like that wouldn't cause all the problems I'm going through.

    Any suggestions/comments are appreciated! I just want to get back on track, my life seems like it's slipping away from me.

    • ANSWER:
      Although smoking may have triggered your panic attack, the feelings you are experiencing now have nothing to do with the marijuana.

      There may possibly be an underlying problem in your life that is manifesting itself in anxiety and panic. You just need to sort things out and find out what's causing you so much stress. You will feel like a brand new you

      The medicine may help, but you need to be in the right mindset. The only way to truly cure yourself of these feelings is through your own mind. First, you are not thinking rationally. Your mind is connecting one possibility to the next, and then to the next, and then to the next until you are in a panic. All the side effects are definitely symptoms of the anxiety and worrying about them will only make it worse. Anxiety can do VERY weird things to the body. It can even cause you physical pain (and worrying about that will just make you panic more).

      The best thing you can do is tell yourself "I'm panicking." Acknowledge what's going on and acknowledge that you're being irrational. Take deep breaths and tell yourself "I'm not going to panic. I need to calm down." Don't let your mind dominate your body. You are in control.

      There can be other issues that cause anxiety and depression such as Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Read up on the symptoms and possibly ask your doctor to get your blood tested to be sure. Maybe a glucose tolerance test as well. This problem is usually overlooked.

25. QUESTION:
    Forgetting to breathe while drifting off to sleep - is this normal?
    Last night (and this happened once before, ages ago) I was drifting off to sleep but kept feeling really short of breath and had to gasp for air, almost as if after each exhale I would forget to inhale again until I started feeling suffocated. After about 1 hour I guess I got sleepy enough to just nod off, but all the time before that I had to remind me myself to breathe.

    I guess this isn't sleep apnea, because I think with that you rarely are aware of it.

    Has anyone else had this? Is it maybe some mild form of a panic attack? (I didn't feel too anxious, more just annoyed that I couldn't breathe normally)

    I started taking Cipralex (escitalopram, an SSRI) 2 days ago so I wonder if it's a side effect?

    • ANSWER:
      A friend of mine has a similar condition. It is called, "Sleep Acnea" and you should see a doctor about it ASAP!! The former football great Reggie White died in his sleep because of it, at the young age of 42.

26. QUESTION:
    Breathing Problems, Heart Problems When Sleeping, Frequent waking, I'm Thirteen?
    Hi

    I've had these problems ever since I was like 6 years old and they're beginning to get me into concern. Last night I woke up roughly over 20 times, (I usually sleep on my side because sleeping on my back is uncomfortable for me) I lay down to rest, about 40 minutes to 4 hours into sleeping I suddenly feel a huge jolt in my chest and I immediately wake up startled, I feel my heart and it doesn't feel like it's at rest, (Note: I have not been diagnosed with heart problems in the past but I am suspected of having heart papilations).

    This can happen up to 4 times a night, often disturbing sleep. I also have breathing problems, (I used to have asthma, but it is extremely mild now and I do not require an inhaler). I find myself waking up at night sometimes around 5 times a night, like my body forgets to breathe, I wake up for about 20 seconds or so to respire, and I have to get back to sleep again (this has caused my erratic sleeping patterns, I can wake up at 1 AM and not be able to sleep until around noon. (which I just pass out) I am slender, female and do not have any history of sleep apnea or anything in my family to do with it though I am unsure if it may actually be sleep apnea. I've had an EEG through sleep and the results came up normal, though that was 6 years ago and have not had another scan up until now. My blood pressure is fine (maybe just a tad low, lower than 80/120 but only slight) I eat healthly, don't do alchohol, e.c.t. I've been having nightmares/erratic dreams that have woken me up several times also that involve not being able to breathe. At one point I assumed it may of been the side effects of a medication I was taking for depression but I've been off it for months now but I'm still getting the symptoms.

    Though I don't experience nighttime drowsiness, I sometimes wake up in cold sweat, in shock, dry mouth shaking and feeling cold for reasons I don't know why. I'm not on anymore medication and I'd really appreciate to know what is going on. I've been worked up about it for months as it seems more often than what it was years ago. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
    Before sleeping I often exhibit tightness of my chest, I usually never experience this in the daytime and I wonder if this may be another symptom of what I might be having. It's another one of the reasons I can't get to sleep at night.

    • ANSWER:
      Print out your letter above and take it to your doctor who should set you up for a "sleep study" at a sleep center. It's painless, you sleep there overnight, they glue a bunch of leads (wires) to your head and chest with some goobery stuff and these leads give them info about what your body is really doing while you are asleep. They also watch you via small camera(s).

      Print out your letter above and take it to your doctor

27. QUESTION:
    Disadvantages of teeth removal for braces?
    I have an overbit and overjet and I have conflicting opinions from different orthodontists about teeth removal for braces. These would be 1 upper bicuspid on each side. Some of the orthodontists advised against teeth removal since they said that it would give me a "dished in" look. I have a somewhat large nose and strong chin.
    I'm also concerned it might have a negative effect on my sleep apnea. Thoughts from people who have gone through this?

    • ANSWER:
      No disadvantages, it is more stable in the long term especially where the overjet is high and the crowding is too much

28. QUESTION:
    Insomnia - How do I make my mind SHUT UP?
    Ok, I've tried all the common sense stuff. Excercise (but not within 6 hours of bedtime), no caffine, meditation, reading a book, chamomile tea, melatonin, etc... I've also been on Lunesta, Ambien, Seroquel (bad side effects), Trazodone, Nortryptaline...

    The problem is that I am PHYSICALLY tired, but my MIND will NOT SHUT UP!!!!!!

    I try repeatedly to "clear my mind", but I feel like I have a tiny motor running in my brain that I can't turn off. My whole life I've always had difficulty getting to sleep, but for the past few months, I've been operating on only about 4-6 hours per night, and I'm tired and "zoned out" during the day.

    I've also done a sleep study at the sleep clinic. They found mild sleep apnea and I've tried a CPAP machine, but it only adds to the aggravation of trying to fall asleep.

    I have moderate restless leg syndrome as well, but Requip and Mirapex do NOTHING, neither did the Lunesta or Ambien.

    It's like I'm immune to medication.

    Any other ideas?

    • ANSWER:
      The first thing you need to do is start using the c-pap again. Then ask for a referal to a psychologist or psych doc to get help for your problem. My daughter and I both suffer from this and yes it is annoying. What works best for me is a soak in a warm tub with the lights out and just a nightlight on or a candle in the bathroom. I sit and soak with my eyes closed until my brain slows down enough to allow me to crawl into bed. SInce you have a diagnosis of sleep apnea even mild you need to use the machine. If you were using a mask and didn't like that try the nasal pillows and see if that works better for you. Also for the restless leg syndrome be sure you are getting enough calcium and consider trying some quinine for it. Good Luck.

29. QUESTION:
    zyprexa- side effect- weight gain?
    i was on this medication for the purpose of helping my antidepressant kick in faster. it worked however i gained 20 lbs. i have diabetes & sleep apnea and had to go off the medication which resulted in my anxiety &
    depression worsening. is there any way to take this med and control your weight? another consumer was a vegetarian and did aerobics and still gained weight while on zyprexa. i am going back on it because it made me feel better however i am worried about gaining weight again.

    • ANSWER:
      Weight gain, effects on blood glucose, and lipids are often effects of second genration antipsychotics (such as Zyprexa). However, you could ask your doctor about Aripiprazole, which has the least incidence of these effects within the class.

30. QUESTION:
    does anyone know any alternative health cures/treatment for periodic limb movement disorder?
    I was just diagnosed and afraid to take the drug they recommended due to it influencing dopamine levels and potential for hallucinations and severe obsessions with gambling, sex, overeating, and shopping. there are lawsuits against the company for these life wrecking side effects.

    I have been sleep deprived nearly 25 years and on bipap/cpap for 15 with little abatement of the many health effects. I am finanlly starting to get some of the errors made in treating sleep apnea corrected but it will be in vain if I can't get the PLMD under control. I think they said I did it 175 times in less than 6 hours and weach time disrupts your sleep.

    I have not been able to find much alternatively since my diagnosis three days ago. I was considering dopamine raising herbs..anything else? )it is sometimes treated similarly to restless leg syndrome although it is a different thing..involuntary and under sleep unlike restless leg which is when awake and asleep. Dopamine also is related to
    Parkinson, another involuntary movement disorder. I am so scared of the medical drugs but also hanging on by a thread from severe sleep deprivation for so long.

    • ANSWER:
      drink 3 litres of water a day
      take ginko biloba mornings when you wake and have a hot bath at night before bed
      get other bits of your life sorted too (fear of movement?)

31. QUESTION:
    Help on sleeping PLEASE!?
    Ok so, my dad lately has been complaining a lot about not being able to sleep. He is one of those people where Tylenol, and other sleep helping drugs has no side effects on him(he doesn't get sleepy by them). His back has been seriously hurting him, but he said that's not why he can't sleep. He is definitely not traumatized or anything like that. Booze is not going to help him. He is not stressed or depressed. Oh yeah! And he has even gone to the doctor and the doctor even said that his back is not the reason that's making him restless. He does not have sleep apnea, or however you spell it. He has tried dimming a light, didn't work. He has tried reading, didn't work. He has tried warm milk and honey, didn't work and thought it was disgusting. He has tried a dozen different sleeping positions, didn't work. He has tried many things. He is not a drug addict so he isn't going to go buy pot and go to sleep. I just really need some tips on how other ways can get him to sleep, and definitely need some advice on why he can't sleep. And he says all he needs is 5 hours of sleep, about. He never can sleep for 8 hours straight, which is fine with him. We just don't understand why he can't sleep. Just some tips on how he can get to sleep and why he can't sleep, that would be PERFECT! (Tea doesn't work either) He is really starting to worry me. THANKS A BUNCH! Oh and please no smart comments, I really do not want the sarcasm or any other negative comments.

    • ANSWER:
      I've had periods of time when I had trouble sleeping, and have tried a lot of different solutions. Two things have worked well for me--depending on the source of the problem.

      When I can't sleep, it's usually because I'm too wound up and can't get my brain, or my body, to settle down. For me, doing yoga, or about 20 minutes of stretching really helps my body relax so I can get to sleep. If your dad has back problems, a special "back care" yoga may work for him. When my brain is too wound up for sleep, I try relaxation exercises--visualizations and stuff like that. You can get them on CD, but once I know the method, I like to just recite the exercise to myself in my head.

      I also find that I sleep better if I don't eat for a few hours before I go to bed.

      When my parents had trouble sleeping, they ended up buying a new bed (Sleep Number), and that has helped them a lot.

32. QUESTION:
    How do I absolve my medical conditions? ?
    I'm 16 and a sophomore in high school; however, I suffer from chronic daily headaches and migraines. I was recently on Topamax which gave me horrible side effects. I went through a sleep study where they found I have minor sleep apnea and am being treated with nasal irrigation and physical therapy on my neck until I do a follow up. I also have acid reflux (possibly triggered by pain medications such as ibuprofen or heredity) and grind my teeth which is contributing to an extreme loss of sleep and several awakenings throughout the night. I have missed several days of school because of my inability to go due to migraines or simply being so tired. I have so much work to do from school and my problems are getting worse and obviously affecting all aspects of my life; it's hard to understand by other people because they believe I'm being "lazy" , I have nothing really to prove them wrong seeing as my attendance and grades are equally affected. I used to be a great student but now my life feels out of my control. help me please anything helps as I will try anything. I know it's a lot to read but thanks in advance

    • ANSWER:
      Allison ... stop eating chocolate and anything with caffeine for a while and see if that stops the headaches and acid reflux. If that doesn't do it after a week, try eliminating a particular food you suspect you might be sensitive to for a week. There is a decent chance certain foods, ingredients are causing both problems. If you are sensitive to ibuprofen, then try tylenol. Chip

33. QUESTION:
    Experiences with adenoidectomy?
    I think my 3 year old might need an adenoidectomy. He hasn't been able to breath through his nose very well sinse he was a little less than a year old. He seems to have sleep apnea because of it and even mouth breaths during the day. I've taken him to his doctor and a ENT specialist and am going soon for a second opinion. I was hoping someone could tell me their or their childrens experiences with the procedure. Did their voice change? Are there any other side effects? Did it help you at all? PLEASE tell me your experiences, I want whats best for my baby.

    • ANSWER:
      It use to be a lot more common to do tonsolectomies and adenoidectomies. Many doctors have moved away from them now. I had both operations performed at the same time about 26 years ago. My operation was very smooth. They tell you the younger you are when you have it done the easier you recover. I had mine done when I was six. Prior to that I use to stop breathing at night. I have not had that problem since. I still breath through my mouth though and find it difficult to breath through my nose just because I did not learn to breath that way. My sister waited much longer to have her surgery, and she really struggled to recover. She was very sick afterward, but she was in her 20's before having the surgery. I think the sooner the better. I was bouncing around the same day after my surgery and I have never regreted it....I do think it would have been cool if my parents had saved them in a jar for me. Would have made a great show and tell.

34. QUESTION:
    Extreme tiredness for over a week?
    Its hard to wake up in the morning & ive been sleeping later just because im so tired. I take the nuvaring but thats not a side effect from it. I went to the doctor & took a thyroid test but if that comes back all normal what else could this be? All I can think of is possible pregnancy or not enough vitamins? Could it be sleep apnea? Thanks & no rude answers.

    • ANSWER:
      Did you recently start the Nuvaring?

      The first month I was on it, I noticed some changes

      the 2nd ring brought more changes including what you mentioned. Just not wanting to do anything. It could be the ring...I will not use it again

      I hope you get better soon

35. QUESTION:
    I have been taking Mobic (Meloxicam) for a little over 2 months now. Anyone had sleeping difficulties?
    I have neen taking Mobic (generic name - Meloxicam) for over 2 months now. It is supposed to help with the pinched nerve in my neck, but I have never thought it was benefiting me at all. I previously had 2 cortizone shots in my neck and those have not helped either. I am having sleeping difficulties in recent weeks, to include sleep apnea. I have never had this before. One of the side effects of meloxicam is breathing difficulty. I want to know if anyone else has had similar problems. Thanks.

    • ANSWER:
      *Have you had a sleeping study done? This is the only way they can determine sleep apnea. Mobic does not cause sleeping problems. I have been on it for a year due to my fibromyalgia and R.A. Take 2 benedryl at night. This will help you sleep.

      Have they done a MRI on your neck? It may not be a pinched nerve. See an orthopedic doctor. If you already have and he said it is a pinched nerve than a chiropractor can help. I have been to a chiropractor and they work wonders.

36. QUESTION:
    I am very physically/mentally fatigued every day. I've taken every antidepressant with no luck. Any suggestion
    Unrefreshed sleep, tired when I wake up but no sleep apnea. Physically and mentally tired all day. No antidepressants including caffeine pills give me any energy at all. However, I get all of the negative side effects from the medicine. Psychiatrist said he has tried everything except stuff like ECT that I'm noy ready for. Thyroid level is fine.

    • ANSWER:
      Have you had a complete blood count done? This might be a physical problem such as anemia.
      Have you tried to sit quietly and do some breathing? If you can focus on your breathing, you can break the compulsitivity of the human mind, hence giving it a rest.
      If you are like me and walk around all day saying,"I'm so tired", then stop it because it only makes you more tired.
      Set your self up with the goal to get familiar with your body from the molecular level up. See what your body is telling you.

37. QUESTION:
    Help! My psychiatrist can't help me? (tiredness)?
    Tired... always feeling tired and energyless. Especially in the weekends I can sleep the whole two days.

    The last time I visited my psychiatrist she said it was likely to be a combination of side effects from taking prozac and stress in my life. Since then I have had a blood test -and would be called if something was wrong -I haven't been called.

    Does having normal blood values mean there's nothing more to do? I suggested getting a sleep test -that I may have sleep apnea. But she said that this was unlikely and mostly people with a thick neck have this.

    Basically I am left feeling very tired and energyless. I have tried different medications: for years on paxil/seroxat and tried effexor too.

    I guess if my doctor can't help me it's time now to accept being tired all the time?

    (I notice also that I get really exhausted quickly from shorts amount of exercise ...like pufing after going up one flight of stairs.)

    • ANSWER:
      First, get the results of your blood test.
      Then have your thyroid function evaluated by an endocrinologist. There is a "normal range" for TSH, but what is the best value for individuals may vary. You may be in the upper range of normal, when your peak functionality may be at the lower range.

      Get a complete physical from your primary care doctor, including a referral for evaluation of sleep apnea. Many people who have this are unaware of it, and not all have "thick necks." Beware doctors who tell you that it is "unlikely" you have a certain condition, and refuse to evaluate you for the possibility!

      Best of luck to you!

38. QUESTION:
    Do anti depressants really work?
    okay i have been damn near depressed ever since 2009 because i was sexually assaulted...i was diagnosed with PTSD..i was first prescribed Paxil,I hated it..then i was prescribed Zoloft,never even filled the prescription because i was too scared of the effects.So what i am asking you guys is like what is the best medication,with less side effects.And i heard that you have nightmares while taking anti depressants,will the nightmares be scary enough to kill me in my sleep or something and will it affect my sleeping because i sleep with a machine i have sleep apnea..will it affect that in any way? I'm just so scared because i really do wanna get better and i been so scared that i wont be able to live to see my graduation which is June 2012 can someone please give me some advice and recommend some medicine that will be the best choice PLEASE and No Mean answers thank you
    Okay another question..If u work out and eat right will you still gain weight from the pills??? SOMEONE PLEASE ANSWER THIS? Please&Thank u

    • ANSWER:
      For most people facing anxiety and or depression such medications can help. The trick is finding the right dosage and taking them as directed so you and your physician can figure out what works for you. Hang in there.

39. QUESTION:
    How can I stop my snoring?
    I've been reading all sorts of answers here on Yahoo and I can't really find a solution to my problem. I have a snoring problem and my roomate doesn't stop letting me know about it. Frankly, it's getting annoying and offensive. I, however, understand that I keep him up at times and am not allowing him to get enough sleep some nights. Now, I've tried a bunch of things such as sprays, nasal strips, sleeping in all sorts of positions... all to no avail. What's weird is that I also do not snore all night, I do in intervals. Anyone have any other suggestions? I don't think I have sleep apnea because I don't wake up much, if at all, at night in the middle of sleeping. Nevertheless, where could I go to get tested to see if I have the condition? Also, I read something about adenoid removal. Is there any place where I can get more information about it's side effects, long-term effects, and how much a surgery like that would cost, its process, and how long it lasts? Any suggestions?

    • ANSWER:
      You should check out for sleep apnea. But before that trying to read up as much as you can and try some natural remedies.

      I had a bad problem too and I found this book useful "ISnore No More"

40. QUESTION:
    Why is medical marijuana still illegal in most states?
    I find it odd that its less dangerous then most drugs prescribed to us but yet we can't have it for serious illnesses.

    I was talking to a friend of mine about how I've had stomach issues for the past week. He explained his girlfriend had the same issues for like a month(can't eat more then a cup full of food at a time, fill full when you're not, if you eat more then about a cup of food you have to throw up) and was prescribed medical marijuana and she was fine within a few days.

    Pot side effects are munchies... the pills I was prescribed cause diarrhea, vomiting, cramps, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, etc...
    I am not talking about recreational use!!! I'm talking about people in real pain!

    • ANSWER:
      There is already an FDA approved drug called Marinol, which contains THC (the active ingredient of marijuana), and it is indicated for the symptoms you describe. It is a pill, not something you smoke. Marijuana advocates point out that it is still not as effective as smoked marijuana for the treatment of glaucoma, though. But assuming you don't have glaucoma, and you are really looking for relief from the symptoms you described, you shouldn't have a problem getting a prescription.

41. QUESTION:
    Is there ever an end to the pain you feel from Depression or Bipolar disorder?
    I've been suffering from Depression for years. I am 23. I have social anxiety disorder and I don't have many friends. I have sleep apnea, had for about 5 years at least. And I think I could be bipolar but it could be affects from the sleep apnea.
    The thing is, I'm constantly in pain. If its not the headaches its the 'heart' aches - the I-don't-know-how-to-describe-it pains deep inside resulting from emotional turmoil.
    I feel like I can't trust my own feelings or emotions, they change so much. Some times I feel like I'm getting better, I have hope, then the next day its reversed and I feel so ... there isn't a word. I hate this existence because every waking moment during the bad times is like a torture and each second ticks passed abnormally slow. And the 'good' times are fake - side effects of a broken brain; mania.
    I can't take this anymore but I have no money to fix these things, holding a job is ... impossible, let alone finding one.
    And things like love and religion, things humans need... there is one I feel like I love. I have harbored feelings for her for many years and saw her again for the first time last week. I wanted to speak to her, and I felt pretty good. But again, I can't trust my feelings or my emotions. Because here I am three days later ready to scream again.
    My body is twisted with each tide of emotions.
    I feel so horrible and having faith is hard because you can not trust your mind. I can not trust my emotions. They change so often, I jump on one thought train and suddenly it shifts under my feet.

    One can not function without a foundation. When the mind is broken, the world is upside down. I am lost, and can walk no farther.

    • ANSWER:
      i have been suffering from clinical depression and borderline personality disorder for most of my teenage years [i'm 19, but grew up really fast], and i got the most relief after i got a counselor...it was really nice to just have someone to talk to...and after a couple of session she put me on an anti-depressant that finally worked...my regular doctor had been jerking me on and off of so many different anti-depressants for years...

      I think my big turning point was a change of scenery...i moved 2000 miles away from everything i had ever known, and haven't been on medication in nearly a year...i will admit that there have been a few lapses in this past year [self mutilation problems] but i still feel better than ever because i have new friends i can count on to let me just talk to them...i'm actually having a very hard time ofthings right now, though...everything seems to have hit me all at once, but i'm confident that i will get through it...

      my advice is to find a counselor, or just someone who will listen to you, consider medication, find a hobby, volunteer, do anything to get you out of the house and moving...i hope you can pull through and wind up feeling better soon! good luck!

42. QUESTION:
    What are my chances of being approved for Social Security Disability?
    I am 52 and have a number of issues - a series of MRIs over 2 years showing increased mild to moderate stenosis in 5 different areas of the spine. Narcolepsy, fibromyalgia, high blood pressure, depression, history of stroke, ADD, anxiety. I've had 7 sleep labs over the years which show in addition to the narcolepsy, restless leg disorder, alpha/delta wave disorder, and sleep apnea. Over a dozen rounds of physical therapy/pain management. Carpal tunnel in both hands; surgery on right with a 50% disability permanency rating from workers compensation; surgery not performed but recommended for the left. Currently have pain shooting down back and nausea when using computer (have been in IT for 35 years). I cannot lift more than 10 pounds without severe pain, or walk more than a block with difficulty. I have trouble standing for more than 5 minutes or sitting for more than 20. I have numerous problems with activities of daily living, including bathing, housework, dressing myself, cooking. I have short term memory deficits, cognitive processing deficits, and categorical aphasia. I have tried over 50 medications, most of which are unsuitable due to undesirable side effects.

    I've been trying to stick it out for the last two years while my workers compensation case has dragged on, and the WC carrier for the very large well known bank I work for has refused to pay any medical bills. In May, I was rear-ended at a stop sign, which aggravated my back injury and caused new knee problems. I have been on disability for several weeks now, and no longer have the strength to continue fighting to work. I often cry at my desk in pain, the doctors will not prescribe pain killers for me although I have no history of addiction. I am fatigued and have difficulty with maintaining the 12-15 hour a day work schedule required for my job, which involves significant customer contact, and maintaining a large number of technical details in my mind at any time. I have been unable to sleep in a bed for the past 8 months, and must sleep sitting up on a couch propped by a number of pillows.

    • ANSWER:
      Apply immediately. Given you are over 50 and what you describe I expect your case would be easily approved. DO NOT go to an attorney. It is unnecessary and you will receive less money in the end.

      Fill out the paperwork completely. Do not miss even one question without a N/A. When answering questions be honest, but think about your worst day, not your best day.

      Be sure to list ALL your doctors when SSA asks for them. Have their addresses and phones numbers. Contact each of them and tell them you have applied for SSDI. One month after you have applied, call SSA and ask if they have received reports back from all your doctors.

      If yes, send those doctors a thank you note. (You may need their help later.)
      If no, contact them and ask them when they are going to send the report in.

      Call every two weeks until they have received all the reports or you are approved.

      Everyone I know who does this (and has a legitimate claim as you clearly do) gets approved within 3 months.

43. QUESTION:
    Can a person have normal to high O2 saturation, but low respiration 9-11 breaths per minute?
    I am getting frustrated with doctors. I have sleep apnea and hypersomnolence. I have been using a Bi-Pap for a month or so but, swallow so much air that I wake with cramps which seem to never go away throughout the day. Lots of belching, flatulance, just a full feeling, and long before all of these problems began I came down with a nasty case of hiccoughs, which I still have. Soxmetimes I just don't know what is going to come out. While awake I breathe 9-11 breaths a minute and my O2 levels are 96-98. My sleep doc said that I did not have bradypnea because saturation was so high, in an article describing bradypnea though it said nothing of O2 content.
    15 years ago I dehydrated and most likely had accute kidney failure. I made a "full" recovery, although I have had the hiccoughs every day since. I most likely had the sleep problems before this occurance but, it was undiagnosed. 6 years ago someone suggested I get tested for Heavy Metals and I tested high in Mercury. At the time I did nothing about it because I could not afford to get my amalgam fillings replaced and did not know all of the illnesses associated with Mercury. I had been diagnosed with Bi-Polar disorder six months after dehydration and later with psychotic features. In my recent research I have read that Mercury can cause breathing problems, but they are unspecified, mental health problems, and also tics. Two months ago I had fillings replaced, I weaned off of all psychiatric medications while updating psychiatrist.
    I still take medication for Hypersomnolance, still have low energy, still have hiccoughs alot, they seem to worsen greatly with sugars and carbohydrates, still use Bi-Pap for as long as I can tolerate; 2-4 hours on a good night, and as previously stated feel sick alot with it. Three days ago I started a Homeopathic cleanse for Toxins and Metals, prescribed by Integrative Health Doc (doesn't accept insurance--big problem). The cleanse says that there can be several side effects, but, should not be long lasting, diahrea is among them. I do have diahrea, maybe some of the pain that I expiriencing is from that.
    I realize it has taken me long to get tho the point and I am still not sure that I am there yet, my apologies, thanks for reading.
    I am kind of wondering if the detox agent takes away the metals which can cause breathing problems, is it because I am learning to breathe properly that I am swallowing so much air, this happens while awake now also. I never actually caught myself taking a gulp of air, however, it seems all at once, that it is there. Or, is it that the Bi-Pap is forcing me to breathe more often than I would normally and therefore am swallowing it.
    I would think that I really do need to breathe more often, afterall isn't it lack of oxygen that causes hiccoughs? Docs won't answer. If someone out there can make sense of what I have written, please help.

    • ANSWER:
      Well, your condition is certainly complex. But let's take it one step at a time.
      Have you determined the source of the mercury poisoning? That's the key. All the detox agents in the world will not rid your body if you are still being exposed. Two to three hundred years ago they used to recommend mercury for medicinal purposes and then wondered why the patient died anyway. Go figure.
      Talk to the Respiratory Therapist who set up your BIPAP machine about the air gulping. It could be a simple problem of mask fit or the position you sleep in. I'm certain that can be worked out.
      As to your oxygen saturation, it will only go down while you are in a deep sleep and your airways obstruct. so you wouldn't even be aware of it happening because if it wakes you up your saturation will immediately improve. That's why they do the Sleep Apnea study under close supervision so they have a record of your sleep patterns.
      And btw, are you diabetic? Because that can cause hypersomnolance also.
      Bradypnea in and of itself will not cause desaturation, your body regulates that. Hypopnea will cause desaturation and that's why you're on BIPAP. Bradypnea refers to the rate of breathing and Hypopnea to the depth. If your rate is 9-11 it shouldn't have that effect unless it's accompanied by hypopnea too.
      I've been on BIPAP for two years now and haven't noticed any major changes in my wakefulness during the day. But they say my sleep apnea is severe so I continue to use it as it might be preventing me from getting worse. If I get really short of breath during the day I'll put it on also to help me get through it. It really helps. But I'm on oxygen 24/7 and have severe COPD.
      Anyway, keep pressing your docs for answers.

44. QUESTION:
    Could being treated for depression with a fibromyalgia drug (Savella) have actually given me fibromyalgia?
    I have tried almost every antidepressant under the sun. None have worked or have had adverse side effects that I couldn't deal with. My Dr. put me on Cymbalta (which made me a walking zombie). I stopped taking that and he put me on Savella (to treat depression). It worked wonders for my depression but about 3 weeks in I started hurting all over. At first, I thought I was getting the flu. I noticed the more I took Savella, the worse the pain became. I began to wonder if they were connected.

    I weaned myself off Savella and here I am, 3 1/2 months later with daily chronic body pain that I had never experienced previously. I have tried researching on the net to see if it has caused any problems for anyone else but have come across nothing similar thus far.

    My Dr. says it sounds like I have fibromyalgia but says the Savella couldn't have caused it. I think it's strange that I didn't have it until AFTER I took the Savella. I have seen a neurologist and she had bloodwork done (yet to receive results) and scheduled a sleep study (she thinks I have sleep apnea) and also referred me to a rheumatologist. Here I sit, 3 months later after having only took a handful of Rx pain pills in my life (after 2 childbirths, car accidents, broken bones, etc.) and I've taken 90 lortabs and 120 tramadols (that my Dr. prescribed me) and I've never been the type for pain medicine but this pain is intense. The pain pills barely knock the edge off but I am scared to move to something stronger because I already take Prozac and Xanax (for depression and panic/anxiety attacks) and am wary of interactions. I am also on hormone replacement therapy for hypothyroidism. Any advice, similar experiences, or words of encouragement would be nice. Thanks

    • ANSWER:

45. QUESTION:
    I suspect that I'm not only depressed...?
    I've had multiple health problems over the last 6 years. I had six surgeries for different issues including cancer in 2008. I've been under the care of a psychiatrist that helped me through the "seemly never ending" health problems. From the outside, people would not believe that I've gone through so many health issues. I don't smoke or drink and keep myself fit golfing and playing tennis. However the case, I had one problem after another. My doctor had told me that I have basically two things going on with me. Alittle bad luck and family genes. I have sleep apnea, hormone disorder, sleep disorder and nerve damage from a major face reconstruction that has caused major pain when eating and some movement of the jaw. I'm under the care of a pain specialist and I have the pain under control with the smallest dose of pain meds. I also have hormone disorders. For years, I've been treated with antidepressants for the bouts with depression that got to the point that I didn't want to live like this anymore. I was in pain and the side effects of the 16 plus antidepressants I was put on made me more sick. I was on multiple trials of different antidepressants over a period of 4 years. The nerve pain was a trigger sending me in a downward spiral into depression. I was asked to admit myself into the hospital after I failed a suicide attempt. I didn't want any help and I thought I had done my homework in finding the fail-proof way to die. I was secretly angry with myself that I had failed. I had enough of doctors that all the medications that was to help me feel better. I never felt better. The meds had numbed me for alittle while, but the urge to stop the suffering was at time very strong.

    I had learned alot about myself through all this, but I wasn't convinced that I was in total control over my depression. My psychiatrist had told me that I had the power to stop the suicidal behavior. I was not sure about that. I later found out that my hormones was extremely low. Very low. In fact I had recently started hormone replacements and within a couple of weeks, the mood had started to shift for the better. The hormone replacement therapy was not perfect and my hormones was still dropping way below normal.

    My question is about my suicidal urges. Do you think that some of my serious bouts with depression was controlable? In other words, is it possible that my moods was controlable with self-control or do you think it's possible that some of my physical problems had altered my thinking and had some affect on my moods. I disagree with my psychiatrist that I had control over my bouts with the suicidal urges. She felt that I could stop the suicidal behavior if I wanted to. I don't really know. I do know that women go through depression when their hormones are out of whack. For example, women would go through post-partum depression after giving birth and their hormone are imbalanced. I felt that I've been going through some of the same issues. by the way, I'm a male that had extremely low testosterone levels. So low that it was almost none.

    What do you think? Is it possible that I'm going through some of the same issues as a woman with severe hormone imbalance? I don't like to disagree with my doctor, but I'm not sure that she is completely right on this one. Your thoughts please....

    • ANSWER:
      Perhaps what your psych was meaning is that you can control the urges through positive thinking? Perhaps if you tell yourself, for instance, that the urges are 'just hormonal imbalance and 'not real' you could talk yourself out of the urges. You're going thru a ton of problems, but maybe if you tell yourself that you CAN handle it all, no matter how tough, you WILL be able to handle them. It certainly won't be easy, but then, life is never easy no matter how easy it looks like it is when seeing others. We all have our thresholds, but, we keep hanging in there, cuz there ARE things every day that make it ok or even good. Try a gratitude journal - write 5 things every day that are good, or that your accomplished, or even smiled about. No matter how simple - like maybe you saw something on TV or a pet or human did something, or even that you noticed the sun shining and it brought back a memory of a good time in life. Hope you understand. Been there - done that. Take care.

46. QUESTION:
    St. Johns Wort, what can i expect if i start to take this?
    I suffer about 2 days a week from high anxiety. i will not take anti depressants, and have refused to do so and i will not change now.

    on the other hand, i heard that this ST johns wort works like that in some people and has little or very tolerable, to no side effects.

    what can i expect if i start to take this herb...will i become nervous or tired? nautious? anyone with expierence? i will be talking to my doctor 1st, but anyone who has expierence, good or bad, please let me know.

    also- im not on any medication and have no diseases for this to react with...

    p.s. also- what is the probability of allergic reactions to this....i only have general allergies, like to pollen, dust....

    p.s.s. i cannot take actual nite time or other drowsy meds because they cause sleep apnea in me....but only medication induced.

    • ANSWER:
      St. John's wort works on nearly the same pathway (in the body) as any other anti-depressent. They all work as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI's); if you look at paxil, it is also an SSRI. One thing that is really important is that you truly have a diagnosis of depression/anxiety. If your diagnosis is Bipolar (doesn't sound like it, but I thought I should throw that out there), the SJW will actually make the condition worse. Tell your doc about it, and be honest about your concerns. He will most likely want to recommend a pharmaceutical chemical (paxil, prozac), and will tell you they can't harm you. Just voice all of your concerns.

      There is only a slight chance for allergic reaction, and they should not poorly effect your sleep.

      If you decide to take it, it will work... eventually. It takes a good month to get into your system, and at that you must take it daily. You can't just take it when you feel anxiety, because it won't work. Make sure you get a reputable brand; stay away from the wal-mart version.

      on a side note: Try a psychologist in conjunction with the SJW, he/she will help you more than you would believe. Take care.

47. QUESTION:
    Hyperventilation: Is there a cure?
    I have had a problem with breathing for 2 solid months now. It all started on 4/17/08. I seem to take deep breaths to feel like I am getting enough air. I have had EKGs, CT scans on my chest, a Stress Test, Spirometry (breathing test). All have come out fine. I have been told it is Anxiety. I have been on Lexapro, side effects were too bad. I have been on Zoloft, did nothing but give me insomnia. I have been taking Ativan for 2 months, I am a afraid I am being hooked, my psychiatrist, is not concerned though. She wants to try me on Paxil, but I do know if being on too many "head drugs" is a good thing. I have also been diagnosed with severe sleep apnea and I am on a CPAP. Can ANYONE give me some kind of answer to this? It is consuming my life!!

    • ANSWER:
      Paper bag

48. QUESTION:
    st johns wort. what should i expect the 1st couple weeks?
    I suffer about 2 days a week from high anxiety. i will not take anti depressants, and have refused to do so and i will not change now.

    on the other hand, i heard that this ST johns wort works like that in some people and has little or very tolerable, to no side effects.

    what can i expect if i start to take this herb...will i become nervous or tired? nautious? anyone with expierence? i will be talking to my doctor 1st, but anyone who has expierence, good or bad, please let me know.

    also- im not on any medication and have no diseases for this to react with...

    p.s. also- what is the probability of allergic reactions to this....i only have general allergies, like to pollen, dust....

    p.s.s. i cannot take actual nite time or other drowsy meds because they cause sleep apnea in me....but only medication induced.

    • ANSWER:
      I have been taking St Johns Wort along with Fish Oil for about six months and it works great. It takes time to notice any difference so don't give up after the first two weeks. I have not noticed any side effects. The Fish Oil says it may give you "fishy burps" but I never did with me. Take as instructed.

49. QUESTION:
    st johns wort....what to expect the 1st few weeks? what type of different feelings?
    I suffer about 2 days a week from high anxiety. i will not take anti depressants, and have refused to do so and i will not change now.

    on the other hand, i heard that this ST johns wort works like that in some people and has little or very tolerable, to no side effects.

    what can i expect if i start to take this herb...will i become nervous or tired? nautious? anyone with expierence? i will be talking to my doctor 1st, but anyone who has expierence, good or bad, please let me know.

    also- im not on any medication and have no diseases for this to react with...

    p.s. also- what is the probability of allergic reactions to this....i only have general allergies, like to pollen, dust....

    p.s.s. i cannot take actual nite time or other drowsy meds because they cause sleep apnea in me....but only medication induced.

    • ANSWER:
      All I can say is what happened to me when I took St.Johns Wort about 8 years ago now. I had a house fire, and was kinda jerked around through that experience, I went to a health food shop and explained how I felt, anxious uptight etc, so they said try St.Johns Wort. All that I can remember is that I was relaxed and calm enough to go back to work within 2 days and get on with what I had to do. St. Johns Wort is a relaxing mild herb. Nothing will happen to you. My husband when we were going through our Divorce, took St.Johns Wort. That helped him relax and gave him peace so he could think things through. Just try it, but like you say, you will be speaking to a doctor first, see what dosage he puts you on. And take it from there. Good Luck my friend.

50. QUESTION:
    I don't know whether to be mad or sympathetic?
    Okay - so I've just learned that all my fiance's medical troubles are being caused by his weight. Bottom line, he's obese (by almost 100lbs the doctor has said). He's got sleep apnea due to his weight - and now, low levels of testosterone which are causing negative affects. (constant fatigue, lack of sex drive, moodiness, etc). I don't know whether to me mad that he's basically done this to himself - or sympathetic because I know he's upset about it - and he has to be even more upset knowing that he caused it all. I just can't help but be angry at him for letting himself get this fat & out of control health wise. I find it absolutely ridiculous that someone (no just him) could let themselves get like this. I really don't want to hurt his feelings (even more than they already are) - but I've had to suffer from all the side effects of his various issues simply because he didn't care enough to take care of his health. I'm very angry at this! I'm scared I'm going to yell at him that he's caused all this on himself, or even call him fat. (even though it would be the truth). I want to be as nice as possible about this, but I also want to get across to him that it's HIS fault this has happened. On top of that I want him to know that I'm angry that it's driven a wedge into our relationship, and made me question even being with him. Does anyone have any advice on how to handle this? Thanks

    • ANSWER:
      if you love him volunteer to work out with him, go out dancing , take walks around the park, play games with each other. you can both deepen your emotional bond with each other and help him lose weight if you're willing to work with him. if he doesn't want to work on his weight then maybe you should consider if he's really worth it and ask him if keeping the weight is worth losing you. otherwise try to work it out . better health for him sounds like it would improve your relationship and his life.