Posted by Shortelise on January 19, 2005, at 12:01:05
In reply to Anxiety or menopause, posted by pkatt on January 18, 2005, at 14:25:13
Pkatt, I also ask myself about this.
I have always had emotional problems, and with good reason, but it wasn't until about six years ago - when I was 43 - that I got to a point where I could no longer bear them. Anxiety was my main symptom.
WHen I was in my late 30's, my periods began to change. I started skipping periods. By the time I was 43, I was getting one period every two or three months. I had been very very regular up until this began.
It was at that point that the anxiety began to be very difficult, and I started getting severe migraine headaches.
Two or three years ago, I started taking 20 mg's of Celexa every day. It made a HUGE difference. I felt better than I had in years. Even the migraines were reduced.
About 8 months ago, with periods only once every six months, I began to get hot flashes, and some mood swings. I started on HRT patches about 4-5 months ago, and that took care of those symptoms.
So, here's the thing - there is a connection between estrogen and serotonin - one that you can learn all about with a little bit of patience and a search engine.
I don't think anyone knows exactly, but I beleive that the Celexa helped with the perimenopausal mood stuff that was going on with me before the hot flashes hit.
I believe that the changes in hormones made my anxiety more acute.
There is absolutely an emotional reason for the anxiety and depression I have experienced, and therapy has been so helpful, but I think there is also a very strong organic component.
I hope this is helpful, and that someone else will give more info.
ShortE
poster:Shortelise
thread:443761
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20050119/msgs/444212.html