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Is Alcohol Intake Safe When Suffering From High Cholesterol Level?
Posted on
Sat, 16 Aug 2014
Medically reviewed by
Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team
Sat, 16 Aug 2014
Answered on
Mon, 3 Nov 2014
Last reviewed on
Question : From last 4 months I could sleep only 4-5 Hrs due to stress in work place. So much tension and stress in office. I had to take 2-3 pegs drinks daily for sleep. apart from that every time I felt sleepy but when I tried, I couldn't sleep and all time thinking about office work. Last week suddenly I felt some negative feelings and felt like my mind is now become numb, I was thinking that I am in some locked room. Next day I met to one Neurologist. He suggested that its a problem of psychiatrist. He referred me. That Doctor asked me about all the things. I also told that I take alcohol since 10 years, but these days continuously taking from 2 months. He has prescribed me Librium 10 mg( 2*2) then (1*2) for 5 days only. After that Fluoxetine 20mg for 30 days he advised, and ask for 4 weeks rest. Also suggested, not to take any drink. Now I am taking medicines and feeling bit better, but facing severe headache. Also I feel little bit swelling left and right part of forehead(Not sure it was earlier also :-(). I again visited to doctor but he said that this is your forehead structure, not to worry and headache is due to these medicines.
I am have high sugar and high cholesterol history also and on medication. I just wanted to take second opinion that should I again meet to neurologist for any test for headache as it may be due to some other cause? Also Can i take little bit alcohol as I stopped Librium, because it gives me relief. even I have not told to doctor to start Alcohol withdrawal treatment.
I have not thought that this problem would be severe in 1 week. I was enjoying my drinks but yes little sleep, due to that only I became stressed. Should I stop fluoxetine if its cause really headache. I am also taking B12 and D supplement. Please suggest.
I am have high sugar and high cholesterol history also and on medication. I just wanted to take second opinion that should I again meet to neurologist for any test for headache as it may be due to some other cause? Also Can i take little bit alcohol as I stopped Librium, because it gives me relief. even I have not told to doctor to start Alcohol withdrawal treatment.
I have not thought that this problem would be severe in 1 week. I was enjoying my drinks but yes little sleep, due to that only I became stressed. Should I stop fluoxetine if its cause really headache. I am also taking B12 and D supplement. Please suggest.
Brief Answer:
Abstinence from alcohol advised.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for writing to us,
I went through the detailed history you have provided here. When one takes alcohol on a daily basis, even in small amounts, our body undergoes certain changes to adapt to the alcohol and it becomes difficult for the body to adjust when alcohol is not provided. This is called as dependence or addiction. Drugs like Librium are given as a part of detoxification from alcohol which eases the problems that our body faces without alcohol. So you will have to stop taking alcohol. It is not advisable to take alcohol along with Fluoxetine. And in your case, even if there was no Fluoxetine, it is not advisable to take alcohol considering the long intake of alcohol and high cholesterol and high blood sugar levels.
The sleep disturbance could be due to two reasons, one is depressive symptoms and other is alcohol withdrawal. The fluoxetine is for the depressive symptoms. If it is due to alcohol withdrawal, it will resolve by itself. Now if the medication is causing you headache, it is advisable that you wait for a week or two, it usually subsides by itself. If it still does not subside, then the medication may be changed to another by your doctor.
In my opinion, at this point of time, it is unnecessary to visit a neurologist, since the headaches have started only after taking fluoxetine. Another possible cause of headache is alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Both most likely resolve with time. If it does not, visiting your psychiatrist is the next step.
Hope this helps,
Dr A Rao
Abstinence from alcohol advised.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for writing to us,
I went through the detailed history you have provided here. When one takes alcohol on a daily basis, even in small amounts, our body undergoes certain changes to adapt to the alcohol and it becomes difficult for the body to adjust when alcohol is not provided. This is called as dependence or addiction. Drugs like Librium are given as a part of detoxification from alcohol which eases the problems that our body faces without alcohol. So you will have to stop taking alcohol. It is not advisable to take alcohol along with Fluoxetine. And in your case, even if there was no Fluoxetine, it is not advisable to take alcohol considering the long intake of alcohol and high cholesterol and high blood sugar levels.
The sleep disturbance could be due to two reasons, one is depressive symptoms and other is alcohol withdrawal. The fluoxetine is for the depressive symptoms. If it is due to alcohol withdrawal, it will resolve by itself. Now if the medication is causing you headache, it is advisable that you wait for a week or two, it usually subsides by itself. If it still does not subside, then the medication may be changed to another by your doctor.
In my opinion, at this point of time, it is unnecessary to visit a neurologist, since the headaches have started only after taking fluoxetine. Another possible cause of headache is alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Both most likely resolve with time. If it does not, visiting your psychiatrist is the next step.
Hope this helps,
Dr A Rao
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thanks Doctor for advice. I understand that when we don't take alcohol, its hard for body to adjust but I was continuously taking alcohol so there is no case of alcohol withdrawal symptoms up to last day when I started Librium. Also I have stopped so many times alcohol for 1 month/ 2 months at my will and faced no issues.
I also asked my doctor that this is not case of alcohol withdrawal, might be its due to less sleep, but he has given me Librium. Later I found that this is for Alcohol detox.
after 8 days still I have kind of heavy headness, headache and poor concentration, Also when I start working on my XXXXXXX etc I cant concentrate and headache starts. when these are the side effects of the medicines, what is the significance of having this. Please suggest.
I also asked my doctor that this is not case of alcohol withdrawal, might be its due to less sleep, but he has given me Librium. Later I found that this is for Alcohol detox.
after 8 days still I have kind of heavy headness, headache and poor concentration, Also when I start working on my XXXXXXX etc I cant concentrate and headache starts. when these are the side effects of the medicines, what is the significance of having this. Please suggest.
Brief Answer:
side effects of drugs are unwanted effects.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for writing back,
Your query is understandable.
When we start taking alcohol regularly, our body also starts requiring more and more alcohol to get the same desired effect. This is known as developing tolerance. So even when we drink the same amount of alcohol daily, the body may find it insufficient and start showing withdrawal symptoms. When you are taking alcohol occasionally, you may not experience any symptoms on stoppage for 1 or 2 months.
Yes rightly pointed, headache could also be due to reduced sleep. Or due to depressive symptoms. It would be difficult to pin point and say which one is causing it. It usually so happens that a combination of the above is responsible for it. So the treatment you were given takes care of both the causes.
Fluoxetine takes about 2 weeks to start showing relief. You may have to patiently wait till then. 8 days is too early to say. If headache is a side effect of the drug, it has no significance, it is simply an unwanted effect of the drug which usually wears off with time.
Hope this helps,
Dr A Rao
side effects of drugs are unwanted effects.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for writing back,
Your query is understandable.
When we start taking alcohol regularly, our body also starts requiring more and more alcohol to get the same desired effect. This is known as developing tolerance. So even when we drink the same amount of alcohol daily, the body may find it insufficient and start showing withdrawal symptoms. When you are taking alcohol occasionally, you may not experience any symptoms on stoppage for 1 or 2 months.
Yes rightly pointed, headache could also be due to reduced sleep. Or due to depressive symptoms. It would be difficult to pin point and say which one is causing it. It usually so happens that a combination of the above is responsible for it. So the treatment you were given takes care of both the causes.
Fluoxetine takes about 2 weeks to start showing relief. You may have to patiently wait till then. 8 days is too early to say. If headache is a side effect of the drug, it has no significance, it is simply an unwanted effect of the drug which usually wears off with time.
Hope this helps,
Dr A Rao
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vaishalee Punj
Hi Doctor,
Continuing to my discussion, just wanted to update you about my health.
I started my medicines as below pattern Librium 10mg and fludac 20 mg as per prescription :
Noon Night
8th Aug: 2 Librium + 2 Librium
9th Aug: 2 Librium + 2 Librium
10th Aug: 1 Librium + 2 Librium
11th Aug: 1 Librium + 2 Librium
12th Aug: Nil + 2 Librium
13th Aug: NIL + Fludac ( From Here I skipped Librium)
14th Aug: NIL + Fludac
15th Aug: NIL + Fludac
16th Aug: NIL + Fludac
17th Aug:--------Alcohol
18th Aug:--------Alcohol
19th Aug:--------Alcohol
20th Aug: --------Fludac
21st Aug: --------Fludac
That was my mistake to consume alcohol as I was irritated with Headaches and Dizziness. But after that my symptoms got worse. I met with doctor on 22nd Aug. he advised me to start Librium 1 in night (10 Days) with 1 fludac. And also told that Fludac has not any side effects Its all due to alcohol withdrawal.
I again started the both from 2 days and facing dizziness whole day and severe Headache in evening and night which I never had from 1st day of treatment .
Just wanted to know Its due to interaction between both medicines and if yes how much time it will take. When Fludac will start giving me relief as still I am facing some restless fear and panic attacks. Can I stop Librium now and continue with Fludac.
Please suggest as I am afraid of any Brain ailment like tumor etc, can I go for Brain MRI? before 1 year it was done and it was perfect.
I am very confident person and working as Manager in an Big IT company. But now a days even I have fear to sit in flight ..I need a second opinion from You. Please help me. Will I be fine in upcoming days?
Awaiting for your response.
Continuing to my discussion, just wanted to update you about my health.
I started my medicines as below pattern Librium 10mg and fludac 20 mg as per prescription :
Noon Night
8th Aug: 2 Librium + 2 Librium
9th Aug: 2 Librium + 2 Librium
10th Aug: 1 Librium + 2 Librium
11th Aug: 1 Librium + 2 Librium
12th Aug: Nil + 2 Librium
13th Aug: NIL + Fludac ( From Here I skipped Librium)
14th Aug: NIL + Fludac
15th Aug: NIL + Fludac
16th Aug: NIL + Fludac
17th Aug:--------Alcohol
18th Aug:--------Alcohol
19th Aug:--------Alcohol
20th Aug: --------Fludac
21st Aug: --------Fludac
That was my mistake to consume alcohol as I was irritated with Headaches and Dizziness. But after that my symptoms got worse. I met with doctor on 22nd Aug. he advised me to start Librium 1 in night (10 Days) with 1 fludac. And also told that Fludac has not any side effects Its all due to alcohol withdrawal.
I again started the both from 2 days and facing dizziness whole day and severe Headache in evening and night which I never had from 1st day of treatment .
Just wanted to know Its due to interaction between both medicines and if yes how much time it will take. When Fludac will start giving me relief as still I am facing some restless fear and panic attacks. Can I stop Librium now and continue with Fludac.
Please suggest as I am afraid of any Brain ailment like tumor etc, can I go for Brain MRI? before 1 year it was done and it was perfect.
I am very confident person and working as Manager in an Big IT company. But now a days even I have fear to sit in flight ..I need a second opinion from You. Please help me. Will I be fine in upcoming days?
Awaiting for your response.
Brief Answer:
No reason to worry
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for writing,
Yes, as advised earlier, alcohol should not be taken with the medications. Alcohol interacts with the medications. The headache is most likely due to withdrawal from alcohol. For this, what you now need to do is, take Librium as advised. Continue it for a total of ten days, night dose, from the day you start taking it regularly. Fludac is preferably taken in the morning since it may interfere with sleep in individuals. Abstain from alcohol altogether. It may be difficult at first but it would make you feel much better in the longer run.
Drug interaction between Fludac and Librium is not severe and is not frequently encountered.
It is quite unlikely that a tumor is causing this headache since you are experiencing no other symptom and there are many other more common causes at the time being that may be responsible for this headache. You will have to give time for the withdrawal symptoms to subside (may take few weeks to even months), and Fludac to start acting. Like i said earlier, Fludac takes at least two weeks to start acting. The benefits increase with time.
The anxiety you are experiencing could be a part of an depressive illness for which you are receiving treatment currently. Again, You will need to give it 2-4 weeks for the problems to subside.
The problems you are facing usually subside in most individuals with the right treatment. Yes, hopefully, you will be fine. There are many treatments available so there is no reason to worry.
Hope this helps,
Dr A Rao
No reason to worry
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for writing,
Yes, as advised earlier, alcohol should not be taken with the medications. Alcohol interacts with the medications. The headache is most likely due to withdrawal from alcohol. For this, what you now need to do is, take Librium as advised. Continue it for a total of ten days, night dose, from the day you start taking it regularly. Fludac is preferably taken in the morning since it may interfere with sleep in individuals. Abstain from alcohol altogether. It may be difficult at first but it would make you feel much better in the longer run.
Drug interaction between Fludac and Librium is not severe and is not frequently encountered.
It is quite unlikely that a tumor is causing this headache since you are experiencing no other symptom and there are many other more common causes at the time being that may be responsible for this headache. You will have to give time for the withdrawal symptoms to subside (may take few weeks to even months), and Fludac to start acting. Like i said earlier, Fludac takes at least two weeks to start acting. The benefits increase with time.
The anxiety you are experiencing could be a part of an depressive illness for which you are receiving treatment currently. Again, You will need to give it 2-4 weeks for the problems to subside.
The problems you are facing usually subside in most individuals with the right treatment. Yes, hopefully, you will be fine. There are many treatments available so there is no reason to worry.
Hope this helps,
Dr A Rao
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thanks Doctor. Its a great help. Yesterday I again Skipped Librium and in morning faced a panic attack. Now from today I will follow the advised dose. If I have taken Fludac in night and want to start in morning from second day onwards, can I take within 12-14 Hrs again?.
I am very surprised that these anxiety is related to Alcohol withdrawal as I never faced these symptoms earlier when I quit this that's why I was wondering that might be these symptoms could be related to brain ailment like tumor. Also my one more worry is: actually I have a lump near right breast from last year ( No discharge No redishhness in breast) and I have not done any test for that as I thought in men its very uncommon, so might me enlargement of tissues. but somewhere I read that Breast cancer can spread in brain also so these kind of things when I think, I get a huge anxiety and then I find myself in a panic and fearful situation and my brain starts like burning and looks like in a glass box in locked position.
Also I am on medical leave and staying alone so 24 hrs think all these things.
during sleeping I hear some sound and unknown scenes so these are also related to depression? I also have loss of appetite now-a-days.
I am feeling very relax after getting your responses. If you can response the above questions (might be these are stupid) it would be a great help.
Thanks a lot doctor once again.
I am very surprised that these anxiety is related to Alcohol withdrawal as I never faced these symptoms earlier when I quit this that's why I was wondering that might be these symptoms could be related to brain ailment like tumor. Also my one more worry is: actually I have a lump near right breast from last year ( No discharge No redishhness in breast) and I have not done any test for that as I thought in men its very uncommon, so might me enlargement of tissues. but somewhere I read that Breast cancer can spread in brain also so these kind of things when I think, I get a huge anxiety and then I find myself in a panic and fearful situation and my brain starts like burning and looks like in a glass box in locked position.
Also I am on medical leave and staying alone so 24 hrs think all these things.
during sleeping I hear some sound and unknown scenes so these are also related to depression? I also have loss of appetite now-a-days.
I am feeling very relax after getting your responses. If you can response the above questions (might be these are stupid) it would be a great help.
Thanks a lot doctor once again.
Brief Answer:
No reason to worry. Visit a surgeon once.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
It is understandable to get these queries.
Yes you may take Fludac the next morning to change the schedule of the dosage and continue it in the mornings thereafter.
Yes alcohol can cause a lot of problems when taken for long duration. But this time you had mentioned that you had taken it regularly for two months. That much time is sufficient for dependence and subsequent withdrawal on stoppage. The fact that after our last conversation on 17th, you still took alcohol shows that you have an intense craving for it. It is good that you have now made up your mind to abstain from it.
Brain tumor presenting with anxiety is very uncommon. Usual symptoms are sudden vomiting, blurring of vision, headache.
Depressive episode presenting with anxiety symptoms is very commonly seen. All the symptoms that you describe are experienced in a depressive episode.
Breast tumor in male is quite a rare occurrence. Secondaries are mostly seen in the late stages where the tumor is usually accompanied by skin changes like ulceration, dimpling, redness or scaling of the nipple, or turning inward of the nipple etc. It would be advisable if you get a consultation by a surgeon to investigate it. A biopsy may be required to know the nature of the lump. Do not worry about it till it is diagnosed or ruled out and it would be better if you visit a surgeon soon to avoid any further anxiety regarding this.
Also, try to keep yourself busy during the day. It would be beneficial for your condition
Hope this helps you,
Dr A Rao
No reason to worry. Visit a surgeon once.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
It is understandable to get these queries.
Yes you may take Fludac the next morning to change the schedule of the dosage and continue it in the mornings thereafter.
Yes alcohol can cause a lot of problems when taken for long duration. But this time you had mentioned that you had taken it regularly for two months. That much time is sufficient for dependence and subsequent withdrawal on stoppage. The fact that after our last conversation on 17th, you still took alcohol shows that you have an intense craving for it. It is good that you have now made up your mind to abstain from it.
Brain tumor presenting with anxiety is very uncommon. Usual symptoms are sudden vomiting, blurring of vision, headache.
Depressive episode presenting with anxiety symptoms is very commonly seen. All the symptoms that you describe are experienced in a depressive episode.
Breast tumor in male is quite a rare occurrence. Secondaries are mostly seen in the late stages where the tumor is usually accompanied by skin changes like ulceration, dimpling, redness or scaling of the nipple, or turning inward of the nipple etc. It would be advisable if you get a consultation by a surgeon to investigate it. A biopsy may be required to know the nature of the lump. Do not worry about it till it is diagnosed or ruled out and it would be better if you visit a surgeon soon to avoid any further anxiety regarding this.
Also, try to keep yourself busy during the day. It would be beneficial for your condition
Hope this helps you,
Dr A Rao
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thanks doctor. It was really helpful. I will get back to you soon with my XXXXXXX updates.
Brief Answer:
welcome
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for writing back.
You are welcome. Yes sure u can follow up with me anytime.
Dr A Rao
welcome
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for writing back.
You are welcome. Yes sure u can follow up with me anytime.
Dr A Rao
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Hi Doctor,
As continuing with the discussion, I started Librium 10mg for 10 days as advised but when I stopped, I had 4 sleepless night and again had to start on 8th Sep for sleep as I started my job from 8th and not got time to visit doctor. from 8th Sep, I am taking Librium daily again. Now I have sleep but still having some time Anxiety and panic attacks especially in evening when I returned home.
Also 3 days ago I just suddenly have a thought of a movie scene and was trying to remember actor name with that scene. I started remembering that, tried my best even searched in Google but since I watch lots of movies, and due to not remembering actor I failed to find this. Now this thought is irritating and suffocating me, when I free from work, I start thinking that why I am not able to remember this and start feeling panic. I dont know why this kind of things are coming in my mind. Now its more than 3 weeks for taking Fludac but I dont see any improvement in my depression. Still I feel lots of unknown scene and sounds when close my eyes. Now situation is I am scared to go to bed.
Having couple of queries:
1. How can I remove that movie scene thought from mind. I daily search for that and find nothing. I took it as challenge to remember but its very difficult to find. I know its my stupidity but my mind is not in my control.
2. I started my current job and getting the same environment. Is it also a cause for not recovering?
3. Unknown scenes and unknown voices are still symptoms of Alcohol withdrawal? as My Doctor always relate all this panic attacks and anxiety with Alcohol withdrawal.
4. Should I change my medications after discussion with Doctor?
5. How many days I will be dependent on Librium. When I will get normal sleep?
6. Whole day my brain looks like tired. It was very fresh when I was taking alcohol.
7. Now Its more than 3 weeks for withdrawing alcohol. Now I cant take leaves so its very difficult to cope with situation.
8. I also met with neurologist for my forehead swelling. He told its nothing serious and i had brain MRI last year that was perfect. He just gave me one tablet Petril 0.5 for SOS, when I get Panic. That also not helping me.
9. When I will see the effect of Fludac?
10. Doctor told me, dont get addicted for Librium but I dont have any option for sleep until I meet with him.
Doctor, Its now more than 1 month I am in this panic situation, and also I am not happy with my current job but can't resign as if dont get new job, again situation would be very difficult.
Please advice me on this. I felt very relax an started feeling confident with your previous suggestions, but due to this movie scene though again and again I feel panic :-(.
Awaiting for your response.
As continuing with the discussion, I started Librium 10mg for 10 days as advised but when I stopped, I had 4 sleepless night and again had to start on 8th Sep for sleep as I started my job from 8th and not got time to visit doctor. from 8th Sep, I am taking Librium daily again. Now I have sleep but still having some time Anxiety and panic attacks especially in evening when I returned home.
Also 3 days ago I just suddenly have a thought of a movie scene and was trying to remember actor name with that scene. I started remembering that, tried my best even searched in Google but since I watch lots of movies, and due to not remembering actor I failed to find this. Now this thought is irritating and suffocating me, when I free from work, I start thinking that why I am not able to remember this and start feeling panic. I dont know why this kind of things are coming in my mind. Now its more than 3 weeks for taking Fludac but I dont see any improvement in my depression. Still I feel lots of unknown scene and sounds when close my eyes. Now situation is I am scared to go to bed.
Having couple of queries:
1. How can I remove that movie scene thought from mind. I daily search for that and find nothing. I took it as challenge to remember but its very difficult to find. I know its my stupidity but my mind is not in my control.
2. I started my current job and getting the same environment. Is it also a cause for not recovering?
3. Unknown scenes and unknown voices are still symptoms of Alcohol withdrawal? as My Doctor always relate all this panic attacks and anxiety with Alcohol withdrawal.
4. Should I change my medications after discussion with Doctor?
5. How many days I will be dependent on Librium. When I will get normal sleep?
6. Whole day my brain looks like tired. It was very fresh when I was taking alcohol.
7. Now Its more than 3 weeks for withdrawing alcohol. Now I cant take leaves so its very difficult to cope with situation.
8. I also met with neurologist for my forehead swelling. He told its nothing serious and i had brain MRI last year that was perfect. He just gave me one tablet Petril 0.5 for SOS, when I get Panic. That also not helping me.
9. When I will see the effect of Fludac?
10. Doctor told me, dont get addicted for Librium but I dont have any option for sleep until I meet with him.
Doctor, Its now more than 1 month I am in this panic situation, and also I am not happy with my current job but can't resign as if dont get new job, again situation would be very difficult.
Please advice me on this. I felt very relax an started feeling confident with your previous suggestions, but due to this movie scene though again and again I feel panic :-(.
Awaiting for your response.
Brief Answer:
Dose of Fludac needs to be increased.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
There is no reason to worry at this time.
1. Forgetting movie scenes, names and actors is a very common problem that many people experience. It does not indicate a serious problem at all. So you can let it go. If you are anxious about this, since it is such a trivial issue, it seems more like a part of your depressive illness (or alcohol withdrawal) for which your antidepressant should help you out.
2. If your job environment is affecting you negatively and severely, then yes it may be a contributing factor.
3. Yes anxiety and panic attacks is seen in alcohol withdrawal. What kind of voices do you experience? Can you elaborate? Does it happen during the daytime while you are fully awake? Is it clear or vague? Does it happen at work?
4. Your antidepressant, Fludac needs to be given in a higher dose since you have taken it for 3 weeks now with not much response. It is too early to change it.
5. Your librium needs to be tapered off slowly. It should not be stopped abruptly. A visit to your psychiatrist will solve most of your problems.
6. Looking tired is mostly due to alcohol withdrawal. Taking alcohol is not the answer to this problem because alcohol may make you feel fresh initially but in the long run its effects are detrimental. It will stop making you fresh eventually and making you tired even when you take it.
7. Alcohol withdrawal can extend for few weeks to months. I understand it may be difficult to take leaves but doing your job is also a part of your treatment that keeps you active and occupied throughout the day.
8. Petril is a temporary solution. It is better avoided. Your panic attacks will get controlled by Fludac when it is given in optimum doses.
9. Once your doctor increases dose of Fludac, you will see improvement in a week or two.
10. You can try reducing the dose of Librium in small amounts to see if it still helps you sleep. If you stop it abruptly it may cause sleep difficulty.
Try and focus on the positive aspects of your job till you get a new one. It may help in coping with the job better. Try and list it.
Many people experience forgetfulness of movie scenes or names. Most people forget about it immediately because it is not anything serious to worry about.
Hope this helps,
Dr A Rao
Dose of Fludac needs to be increased.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
There is no reason to worry at this time.
1. Forgetting movie scenes, names and actors is a very common problem that many people experience. It does not indicate a serious problem at all. So you can let it go. If you are anxious about this, since it is such a trivial issue, it seems more like a part of your depressive illness (or alcohol withdrawal) for which your antidepressant should help you out.
2. If your job environment is affecting you negatively and severely, then yes it may be a contributing factor.
3. Yes anxiety and panic attacks is seen in alcohol withdrawal. What kind of voices do you experience? Can you elaborate? Does it happen during the daytime while you are fully awake? Is it clear or vague? Does it happen at work?
4. Your antidepressant, Fludac needs to be given in a higher dose since you have taken it for 3 weeks now with not much response. It is too early to change it.
5. Your librium needs to be tapered off slowly. It should not be stopped abruptly. A visit to your psychiatrist will solve most of your problems.
6. Looking tired is mostly due to alcohol withdrawal. Taking alcohol is not the answer to this problem because alcohol may make you feel fresh initially but in the long run its effects are detrimental. It will stop making you fresh eventually and making you tired even when you take it.
7. Alcohol withdrawal can extend for few weeks to months. I understand it may be difficult to take leaves but doing your job is also a part of your treatment that keeps you active and occupied throughout the day.
8. Petril is a temporary solution. It is better avoided. Your panic attacks will get controlled by Fludac when it is given in optimum doses.
9. Once your doctor increases dose of Fludac, you will see improvement in a week or two.
10. You can try reducing the dose of Librium in small amounts to see if it still helps you sleep. If you stop it abruptly it may cause sleep difficulty.
Try and focus on the positive aspects of your job till you get a new one. It may help in coping with the job better. Try and list it.
Many people experience forgetfulness of movie scenes or names. Most people forget about it immediately because it is not anything serious to worry about.
Hope this helps,
Dr A Rao
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Hi Doctor. ..Thanks for reply. I visited to my doctor yesterday morning and even he did the same thing. He has doubled my Fludac dose and in place of Librium he advised for Lorazepam 1 mg daily in night. Yesterday I took both and felt good. But today afternoon I felt heavyheadness and irritation ...bit craving for alcohol.some time I feel very normal but with something missing with kind of brain fog ....May be I was a party animal and now I stopped those things totally due to drinks avoidance.
You asked me about voices. These voices are only happen when I am in bed and try to sleep or in half sleep. No existence during fully awake and work time. These are something like Aaahhhh( some lady voice ) some time like ghoon. ....For just 1 or 2 sec. Sometime feel somebody is also in room...While I am alone.
I am trying to keep myself busy all time and following your all advices. Those have given me confidence. But full day I feel drowsiness.
I don't want to depend on these medications in long term .so will I be able to stop these medicines after cure or these are life long medicines like BP ?
Please advice.
Thanks
You asked me about voices. These voices are only happen when I am in bed and try to sleep or in half sleep. No existence during fully awake and work time. These are something like Aaahhhh( some lady voice ) some time like ghoon. ....For just 1 or 2 sec. Sometime feel somebody is also in room...While I am alone.
I am trying to keep myself busy all time and following your all advices. Those have given me confidence. But full day I feel drowsiness.
I don't want to depend on these medications in long term .so will I be able to stop these medicines after cure or these are life long medicines like BP ?
Please advice.
Thanks
Brief Answer:
medicines need not be continued indefinitely
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
I'm glad my answers were useful,
That's good progress, fludac has been increased and librium has been changed to lorazepam. Hopefully the doctor will be able to wean you off of lorazepam soon.
Symptoms of unable to feel fresh and a sense of fogginess and the craving is most likely due to alcohol withdrawal. You will have to be a bit patient till all the symptoms subside. Give it some time to subside and till then keep yourself occupied so that it doesn't bother you much.
The voices you complain of is not abnormal. There is no need to worry about it. It requires no medication or treatment. It is experienced by many people. It will subside by itself.
You need not be dependent on medication for life. The lorazepam can be tapered off once your sleep improves. Fludac may have to be continued for a few months depending on how long you take to respond. It would be hard to predict right away. For now let's focus on your recovery first.
Hope this helps you,
Dr A Rao
medicines need not be continued indefinitely
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
I'm glad my answers were useful,
That's good progress, fludac has been increased and librium has been changed to lorazepam. Hopefully the doctor will be able to wean you off of lorazepam soon.
Symptoms of unable to feel fresh and a sense of fogginess and the craving is most likely due to alcohol withdrawal. You will have to be a bit patient till all the symptoms subside. Give it some time to subside and till then keep yourself occupied so that it doesn't bother you much.
The voices you complain of is not abnormal. There is no need to worry about it. It requires no medication or treatment. It is experienced by many people. It will subside by itself.
You need not be dependent on medication for life. The lorazepam can be tapered off once your sleep improves. Fludac may have to be continued for a few months depending on how long you take to respond. It would be hard to predict right away. For now let's focus on your recovery first.
Hope this helps you,
Dr A Rao
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vaishalee Punj
Thanks Doctor.
Since I started Lorazepam, I am feeling little bit light during day time :-). But I think Anxiety and alcohol craving is increased in 2 days. Might be Librium is now not in body system.
Some days ago Doctor has also advised me to take acamprosate calcium 333 ( 3 times 2 tab daily) with Librium and Fludac. but that time I was facing so many side effects and also that time Alcohol craving was under control.so i told him that no need for this.
Can I take this medicine with Lorazepam and Fludac now? Does it has any side effects?
Just a curiosity, that after a successful treatment of depression with these above medicines, Will I be able to have some drinks socially in future?
Thanks a Lot doctor.
Since I started Lorazepam, I am feeling little bit light during day time :-). But I think Anxiety and alcohol craving is increased in 2 days. Might be Librium is now not in body system.
Some days ago Doctor has also advised me to take acamprosate calcium 333 ( 3 times 2 tab daily) with Librium and Fludac. but that time I was facing so many side effects and also that time Alcohol craving was under control.so i told him that no need for this.
Can I take this medicine with Lorazepam and Fludac now? Does it has any side effects?
Just a curiosity, that after a successful treatment of depression with these above medicines, Will I be able to have some drinks socially in future?
Thanks a Lot doctor.
Brief Answer:
Yes it may be taken.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Yes if it was prescribed with librium and Fludac earlier, it may be taken with lorazepam and Fludac. Some of the common side effects could be sedation, diarrhea and occasional headaches which usually resolve in a month or so. Abstinence from alcohol is required when you are on this medication.
Social drinking has its disadvantages after detoxification from alcohol because it acts as a cue to cause more craving in later life making it very difficult to abstain which is why doctors advise against it. And it is advisable to not take any alcohol with any of the psychiatric medications you are on now, which may have to be continued for a few months.
Hope this helps you,
Dr A Rao
Yes it may be taken.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Yes if it was prescribed with librium and Fludac earlier, it may be taken with lorazepam and Fludac. Some of the common side effects could be sedation, diarrhea and occasional headaches which usually resolve in a month or so. Abstinence from alcohol is required when you are on this medication.
Social drinking has its disadvantages after detoxification from alcohol because it acts as a cue to cause more craving in later life making it very difficult to abstain which is why doctors advise against it. And it is advisable to not take any alcohol with any of the psychiatric medications you are on now, which may have to be continued for a few months.
Hope this helps you,
Dr A Rao
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Hi Doctor,
As per our last discussion, I thought to start acamprosate calcium 333 but since I managed my craving and scared with the side effects of medicine, I have not started. I am taking only Fludac 40 mg and lorazepam 1 mg these days. The new problem I noticed 3 days ago was, I felt Ear ringing whole the time, I dont know when it started and how I felt to feel this suddenly, even when I clenched my jaws, its sound increases.
I met with an ENT. She has examined me and removed wax from right ear. Also told that ears are normal.you need to distract from this and try for some soothing music during sleeping.
I heard that there is no cure of Tinnitus and even not sure the cause. From that day I am again in Anxiety. Also full day I have heavyheadness, headache and dizziness. Now its more than 1.5 month but I am not seeing any improvement in my depression using Fludac.
Please advise on:
1. Should I go for some Tests regarding Ear ringing? If its not curable, do I need to live with this? has this happened due to depression?
2. Still I have dizziness, headache, should I consult with any Neurologist?
3. Should I wait for some days more for getting improvement using Fludac and Lorazepam?
4. Are my current symptoms due to my medicines side effects?
5. Cant concentrate on job due to dizziness. Still not having interest in daily job work even like newspaper reading watching TV etc.
please Advise me and suggest an action plan so that I can go and meet the concerned doctors as I think I am simply wasting my time and loosing my job too.
Thanks for great help.
As per our last discussion, I thought to start acamprosate calcium 333 but since I managed my craving and scared with the side effects of medicine, I have not started. I am taking only Fludac 40 mg and lorazepam 1 mg these days. The new problem I noticed 3 days ago was, I felt Ear ringing whole the time, I dont know when it started and how I felt to feel this suddenly, even when I clenched my jaws, its sound increases.
I met with an ENT. She has examined me and removed wax from right ear. Also told that ears are normal.you need to distract from this and try for some soothing music during sleeping.
I heard that there is no cure of Tinnitus and even not sure the cause. From that day I am again in Anxiety. Also full day I have heavyheadness, headache and dizziness. Now its more than 1.5 month but I am not seeing any improvement in my depression using Fludac.
Please advise on:
1. Should I go for some Tests regarding Ear ringing? If its not curable, do I need to live with this? has this happened due to depression?
2. Still I have dizziness, headache, should I consult with any Neurologist?
3. Should I wait for some days more for getting improvement using Fludac and Lorazepam?
4. Are my current symptoms due to my medicines side effects?
5. Cant concentrate on job due to dizziness. Still not having interest in daily job work even like newspaper reading watching TV etc.
please Advise me and suggest an action plan so that I can go and meet the concerned doctors as I think I am simply wasting my time and loosing my job too.
Thanks for great help.
Brief Answer:
problems take time to resolve.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
1. The ENT specialist has examined your ears and found a cause for the ringing in your ears and treated the cause. What is the reason for worry? Has it stopped after removal of wax or is it still persisting? You have been advised to keep yourself distracted probably because the doctor thought you were excessively worried about the problem that did not require that much anxiety. In very rare cases ringing of ear is not treatable after all treatment options have been tried. In your case they haven't even begun treatment because they already found a cause n solved the problem.
Ringing of ears can be a late complication of depression which is unlikely in your case. It could be psychological which means you may experience it even when its not there due to anxiety. In that case distraction would help.
2. Dizziness and headache could be side effects of fludac after the dose was increased to 40mg. You have to wait and watch for problems to resolve.it may take a week or two since dose was recently increased.
3. Fludac was recently increased to 40 so yes you need to wait for the medication to act. Has your sleep become normal now?
4.Dizziness and headache could be side effects of fludac. It usually resolves in a week or two.
You are not wasting your time. You need some rest to let yourself heal from the problems you are facing. Distraction, yoga, meditation and exercise may be included in your daily regime to fasten your progress.
The loss of interest in daily activities is due to the depressive episode. It takes some time to resolve since medicines usually take time. So Be patient and don't lose hope.
Why do you feel you are losing your job?
Dr A Rao
problems take time to resolve.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
1. The ENT specialist has examined your ears and found a cause for the ringing in your ears and treated the cause. What is the reason for worry? Has it stopped after removal of wax or is it still persisting? You have been advised to keep yourself distracted probably because the doctor thought you were excessively worried about the problem that did not require that much anxiety. In very rare cases ringing of ear is not treatable after all treatment options have been tried. In your case they haven't even begun treatment because they already found a cause n solved the problem.
Ringing of ears can be a late complication of depression which is unlikely in your case. It could be psychological which means you may experience it even when its not there due to anxiety. In that case distraction would help.
2. Dizziness and headache could be side effects of fludac after the dose was increased to 40mg. You have to wait and watch for problems to resolve.it may take a week or two since dose was recently increased.
3. Fludac was recently increased to 40 so yes you need to wait for the medication to act. Has your sleep become normal now?
4.Dizziness and headache could be side effects of fludac. It usually resolves in a week or two.
You are not wasting your time. You need some rest to let yourself heal from the problems you are facing. Distraction, yoga, meditation and exercise may be included in your daily regime to fasten your progress.
The loss of interest in daily activities is due to the depressive episode. It takes some time to resolve since medicines usually take time. So Be patient and don't lose hope.
Why do you feel you are losing your job?
Dr A Rao
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Bhagyalaxmi Nalaparaju
Thanks doctor. Since I am having headache, dizziness and ear ringing so just worried about any brain ailment.
Yes ear ringing is still persisting after wax removal. She has advised me to take gincoba tab that might help me in ringing. I have well sleep in night but even having sleepy in noon If I try for sleep it doesn't happen.
Since I am not able to perform well in my job which is very hectic and challenging and also that environment irritates me, I again took leave, due to this management is little bit upset. Anyway I will start to follow your advices like yoga exercise and try to keep busy and happy...and yes will wait for improvement too.
Thanks for great help.
Yes ear ringing is still persisting after wax removal. She has advised me to take gincoba tab that might help me in ringing. I have well sleep in night but even having sleepy in noon If I try for sleep it doesn't happen.
Since I am not able to perform well in my job which is very hectic and challenging and also that environment irritates me, I again took leave, due to this management is little bit upset. Anyway I will start to follow your advices like yoga exercise and try to keep busy and happy...and yes will wait for improvement too.
Thanks for great help.
Brief Answer:
ringing could be psychological as discussed before
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
I am glad you found my answer useful,
Symptoms of ear ringing or tinnitus and dizziness are more commonly related with local ear pathology like ear wax etc than more rare ones like brain pathology. Symptoms of headache and dizziness can be seen as side efects of antidepressant medication rather than more rare and complex causes of a brain pathology, which usually subside in few weeks. Since your neurologist has also assured you that there is nothing to worry since your brain imaging an year ago was normal, there is no necessity to repeat it. But if this is bothering you so much and causing anxiety you may talk to your neurologist and discuss regarding a repeat scan, just to allay your anxiety.
Ginkoba is a herbal treatment with no side effects so you may have to wait a while for it to act. If the cause of your ear ringing is anxiety then it will resolve along with other symptoms of depression.
It is advisable you sleep only at night and avoid noon naps. Keep yourself busy at this hour if you feel sleepy.
Keeping happy and seeing improvement will be one and the same thing. Relaxation is an important part of your treatment so the more seriously you follow it the faster your recovery will be.
Hope this helps,
Dr A Rao
ringing could be psychological as discussed before
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
I am glad you found my answer useful,
Symptoms of ear ringing or tinnitus and dizziness are more commonly related with local ear pathology like ear wax etc than more rare ones like brain pathology. Symptoms of headache and dizziness can be seen as side efects of antidepressant medication rather than more rare and complex causes of a brain pathology, which usually subside in few weeks. Since your neurologist has also assured you that there is nothing to worry since your brain imaging an year ago was normal, there is no necessity to repeat it. But if this is bothering you so much and causing anxiety you may talk to your neurologist and discuss regarding a repeat scan, just to allay your anxiety.
Ginkoba is a herbal treatment with no side effects so you may have to wait a while for it to act. If the cause of your ear ringing is anxiety then it will resolve along with other symptoms of depression.
It is advisable you sleep only at night and avoid noon naps. Keep yourself busy at this hour if you feel sleepy.
Keeping happy and seeing improvement will be one and the same thing. Relaxation is an important part of your treatment so the more seriously you follow it the faster your recovery will be.
Hope this helps,
Dr A Rao
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thanks a lot Doctor. Your suggestions were really helpful and have given me confidence. I will keep you posted about my health recovery.
Thanks again.
Thanks again.
Brief Answer:
welcome
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
I am glad you found it helpful,
Yes. You are welcome.
Dr A Rao
welcome
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
I am glad you found it helpful,
Yes. You are welcome.
Dr A Rao
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Hi Doctor,
Just wanted to update you about my health, since I was on Fludac 40 mg and still it was not effective so my Doctor has changed this by Venlafaxine 75 mg (2 in morning) on 29th Sep with Lorazepam 1 mg in Night.
Still I have the below problems:
1. Continuous Ear Ringing (Mostly in right ear)
2. Headache (Some time)
3. Pain in Temporal Area.
4. Dizziness
5. Irritation and suffocation in evening
6. No interest in daily activities like working on laptops, TV, Newspapers etc.
I discussed with my doctor yesterday again about this, he added 1 more Venlafaxine 75 mg in evening and changed lorazepam with Qutipin 25 mg in Night. He said that you are now recovered and just need 10-15% recovery and these problems will go away within 2-3 weeks. Here I have some queries:
1. Will this really go away within 2-3 weeks?
2. My current problems are side effects of medicines? My temporal area both side is little bit swelled (In my view) and I feel pain there but even Physician denied that it’s swelling.
3. I tried my best to work on system but within half an hour I feel irritation and headache starts.
4. Can I discontinue Anti-depressant as I heard that taking this for a long time and after that its withdrawal could be more severe?
5. Ear ringing is very irritating. Should I go for brain and Audio checkup?
6. Can this headache related to Migraine?
7. It’s now around 2 Months but still I feel the same situation. Only improvement I can feel is – No Panic attacks, No fear, No unknown voices, well sleep.
Please let me know that should I still wait or I should go for some other consultation as I am totally down with this and not able to do work in office properly.
Regards XXXXXXX
Just wanted to update you about my health, since I was on Fludac 40 mg and still it was not effective so my Doctor has changed this by Venlafaxine 75 mg (2 in morning) on 29th Sep with Lorazepam 1 mg in Night.
Still I have the below problems:
1. Continuous Ear Ringing (Mostly in right ear)
2. Headache (Some time)
3. Pain in Temporal Area.
4. Dizziness
5. Irritation and suffocation in evening
6. No interest in daily activities like working on laptops, TV, Newspapers etc.
I discussed with my doctor yesterday again about this, he added 1 more Venlafaxine 75 mg in evening and changed lorazepam with Qutipin 25 mg in Night. He said that you are now recovered and just need 10-15% recovery and these problems will go away within 2-3 weeks. Here I have some queries:
1. Will this really go away within 2-3 weeks?
2. My current problems are side effects of medicines? My temporal area both side is little bit swelled (In my view) and I feel pain there but even Physician denied that it’s swelling.
3. I tried my best to work on system but within half an hour I feel irritation and headache starts.
4. Can I discontinue Anti-depressant as I heard that taking this for a long time and after that its withdrawal could be more severe?
5. Ear ringing is very irritating. Should I go for brain and Audio checkup?
6. Can this headache related to Migraine?
7. It’s now around 2 Months but still I feel the same situation. Only improvement I can feel is – No Panic attacks, No fear, No unknown voices, well sleep.
Please let me know that should I still wait or I should go for some other consultation as I am totally down with this and not able to do work in office properly.
Regards XXXXXXX
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