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What Causes Severe Hot Flashes And Depression During Menopause?
I have gone through menopause and still have hot flashes very badly and depression. I had postpartum depression with both of my children. I am struggling with depression and feelings of hopelessness and fear. I am afraid to take anything because of side effects. I already take Effexor. I think I need to talk to someone. Do you agree?
Mon, 31 Dec 2018
Hello,
I am sorry you are still having hot flashes, and depression. I do agree it would be good to talk with someone, but also, you may need your antidepressant tweaked a bit.
SSRI antidepressants can be helpful for hot flashes - are prescribed as a first line treatment for these, and of course, beneficial for treating anxiety and depression.
Some people get benefit with acupuncture for hot flashes too. You also may be a candidate for low dose hormone replacement therapy for a given duration of time -I do understand the concerns these pose though.
Given the significant depression and anxiety you are experiencing, I recommend consulting with both a psychiatrist, to work with you on an antidepressant as it doesn't seem like the Effexor is cutting it for either the depression/anxiety or hot flashes, and a gynecologist.
There is hope, and you are not alone or unusual in having this combination of symptoms.
Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Take care
Regards,
Dr Bonnie Berger-Durnbaugh, General & Family Physician
I am sorry you are still having hot flashes, and depression. I do agree it would be good to talk with someone, but also, you may need your antidepressant tweaked a bit.
SSRI antidepressants can be helpful for hot flashes - are prescribed as a first line treatment for these, and of course, beneficial for treating anxiety and depression.
Some people get benefit with acupuncture for hot flashes too. You also may be a candidate for low dose hormone replacement therapy for a given duration of time -I do understand the concerns these pose though.
Given the significant depression and anxiety you are experiencing, I recommend consulting with both a psychiatrist, to work with you on an antidepressant as it doesn't seem like the Effexor is cutting it for either the depression/anxiety or hot flashes, and a gynecologist.
There is hope, and you are not alone or unusual in having this combination of symptoms.
Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Take care
Regards,
Dr Bonnie Berger-Durnbaugh, General & Family Physician
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