Coping with SSRI Withdrawal Symptoms: Seeking Temporary Solutions
Hello, everyone. I'm a 25-year-old female reaching out for guidance on dealing with withdrawal symptoms from SSRIs. Due to unforeseen circumstances, I missed a week of my regular dosage of Celexa (30mg daily) and have started to experience withdrawal effects. I was completely unaware that these symptoms could occur, so I hope for your understanding. I’ve consulted with my general practitioner who reassured me that I'm doing fine, and we’ve developed a safe and gradual plan to resume my medication, which should alleviate the withdrawal effects. In the meantime, I'm seeking strategies to help manage these symptoms until I start feeling better. Currently, I'm experiencing intense dizziness (at times, it feels as though I might faint), nausea, fatigue, and heightened sensitivity to various stimuli like light, sounds, and smells. Additionally, I have this bizarre sensation that makes it seem like gravity is affecting me in ways I can’t quite explain. I truly appreciate any advice or tips you can offer. This situation is quite challenging, and I'm open to any assistance you can provide.
Answers (1)
7/2/2025, 3:30:51 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re going through a challenging time with SSRI withdrawal symptoms, and it's great that you've consulted with your doctor about a plan. Given your current symptoms of dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and sensory sensitivities, there are a few strategies you may find helpful to ease your discomfort while awaiting the resumption of your medication.
Main Points:
- Self-Care Strategies: Focus on hydration, balanced nutrition, and gradual sensory exposure.
- Rest and Activity Balance: Ensure you are resting adequately while also engaging in light activities.
- Environment Adjustments: Create a calming space to reduce sensory overload.
Explanation:
Withdrawal from SSRIs like Celexa can lead to feelings of dizziness and nausea, among other symptoms. During this period, your body is readjusting, and it’s important to care for yourself gently.
Specific Next Steps:
-
Stay Hydrated:
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Dehydration can worsen dizziness and fatigue.
- Consider ginger or peppermint tea for nausea relief, as both can be soothing.
-
Nutrition:
- Eat small, balanced meals during the day to maintain blood sugar levels. Focus on whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
-
Gradual Movement:
- If you feel lightheaded, take it slow when standing or moving. Try standing up gradually and letting your body adjust before moving.
- Gentle stretching or short, leisurely walks can help with fatigue and improve mood without overexertion.
-
Create a Soothing Environment:
- Dim the lights and minimize loud noises to combat sensory sensitivity. Consider using earplugs or a sleep mask if necessary.
- Engage in calming activities, such as reading, meditation, or listening to soft music, to help ground your senses.
-
Sleep Hygiene:
- Establish a consistent sleep schedule to help your body recover and manage fatigue more effectively.
-
Track Your Symptoms:
- Keep a journal of your symptoms to identify any patterns or triggers. This can help both you and your doctor in the future.
If your symptoms worsen or new ones develop, it’s important to reach out to your healthcare provider for further guidance. Take care of yourself, and be patient as you navigate this process. You're not alone; support is available, and it’s okay to seek help when you need it.
Related Questions
Three Weeks Post Gallbladder Surgery - Is It Infected?
Patient Profile: - Age: 35 - Gender: Female - Height: 5 feet 4 inches - Weight: 160 pounds - Ethnicity: Asian Issue Duration: 3 weeks Location: United States Relevant Medical History: Approximately three weeks ago, I underwent gallbladder removal surgery. Recently, I have observed a slight amount of cloudy fluid emerging from the surgical site over the past few days. Just moments ago, I noticed a possible pus discharge from the incision. While there is no significant pain, I do feel mild soreness when shifting my position. I have not experienced any fever or chills, and there is no unpleasant odor coming from the wound. Should I continue to clean the area with soap and water, or would it be prudent to seek immediate medical attention at the ER for a professional evaluation?
Should I Seek Medical Attention?
At 22 years old, I am a female who has been on medications like duloxetine, lamotrigine, and hydroxyzine for several years. I have managed to keep my Graves' disease under control, but I have reasons to believe I may also be experiencing symptoms of POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome). Last year, I was scheduled to consult a neurologist regarding hand tremors and the possibility of fibromyalgia. Unfortunately, I could not continue my treatment after relocating and losing my health insurance. Just 15 minutes ago, I fainted. Prior to that incident, I was feeling unwell—dizzy, my vision was blurry, and I experienced a whooshing sensation along with heat in my ears. My face and arms also felt tingly. After fainting, I experienced a heavy, aching sensation in my head, and I still have a headache now. Additionally, I’ve been waking up with headaches for a couple of days. I want to know if it's advisable to go to the emergency room. It's important to note that this isn’t my first fainting spell; I had one incident years back, which helped me recognize the signs when it started happening. At that time, I was lifting a heavy bed frame, and when I began to feel faint, I tried to sit down but stood back up to assist, and that’s when I lost consciousness. I’m unsure how long I was out, but I initially thought I was just sleeping before realizing what had happened when I regained awareness.
Seeking Guidance for My Mother's Sudden Hearing Loss Case
I am looking for advice regarding my mother's situation with sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL). **Patient Overview:** - **Age:** 48 years - **Gender:** Female - **Medical Issues:** Hypothyroidism and overweight (approximately 95 kg at the onset) - **Treatment:** Thyroid medication (25 mcg taken daily) **Medical Background:** In November 2025, my mother experienced an abrupt hearing loss in her right ear accompanied by dizziness and nausea. We consulted several ENT specialists within approximately 36 hours following the onset of her symptoms. She received a diagnosis of SSNHL but unfortunately, she did not undergo intratympanic steroid injections during the critical first 24 hours that could have aided her recovery. Despite receiving subsequent treatment, she has not regained hearing in her affected ear. **Examination Results:** - **Audiogram:** Loss of approximately 100 dB in the right ear; left ear shows normal hearing. - **Brain MRI:** A normal scan was conducted previously, ruling out tumors. - **Laboratory Tests:** Recent blood tests (including thyroid function, HbA1c, renal and liver function tests, CBC, etc.) show elevated TSH (6.73) and a HbA1c of 8.5%. We are currently preparing for a contrast MRI to eliminate the possibility of a vestibular schwannoma or nerve issues. **Current Condition:** The hearing loss persists in her right ear. She is feeling anxious about the upcoming contrast MRI, which involves gadolinium injection. However, she has started making positive lifestyle changes and has lost about 4.5 kg over the past two months, adhering to a protein-rich diet and a walking regimen. **My Inquiries:** 1. Is it still beneficial to perform a contrast MRI several months after the initial SSNHL diagnosis, considering that a normal MRI has already been completed? 2. For cases such as this—severe SSNHL with delayed steroid intervention—are there realistic prospects for hearing recovery at a later date? 3. Are there any additional tests or treatments that should be taken into account at this stage? 4. For family gatherings where loud music will be present, would high-quality earplugs or noise-canceling earbuds be a good option to safeguard her healthier ear? 5. Is it advisable for her to continue with whey protein supplementation and the weight-loss plan? 6. What should we prioritize for long-term management: hearing aids, rehabilitation, regular monitoring, etc.? I recognize that the chances of recovery may be slim, but I want to ensure we are covering all bases and that her care plan is appropriate. I appreciate any insights or suggestions you can offer. Thank you for your assistance!
Evaluating the Reliability of Blood Tests for Liver Disease
As a 30-year-old man who has indulged in heavy drinking during weekends for the past decade, I recently sought to understand the health of my liver through a blood test conducted at a laboratory. Initially, I felt a wave of relief when I received my results indicating that all my liver enzyme levels were within normal limits. However, my sense of security was short-lived as I stumbled upon information suggesting that some forms of liver disease might not be detectable through standard blood testing. This has prompted me to question the extent to which I can rely on my test results. Is it possible that underlying issues might still exist despite what the blood work revealed?
ENT Inquiry: Can Nasal or Sinus Cancer Develop in 3 Months Post-Normal Endoscopy?
Subject: 62 Years Old Gender: Female Background: Long-standing nasal and sinus issues My mother has grappled with persistent nasal blockages, sinus discomfort, and ear pressure for a considerable period. Approximately three months prior, she underwent a flexible fiberoptic nasal endoscopy, which revealed signs indicative of chronic rhinitis and sinusitis. The examination showcased features such as inflamed and discolored mucosa, enlarged nasal turbinates, and the presence of clear mucus. Importantly, no masses or concerning lesions were identified during this evaluation. Additionally, her oropharyngeal examination yielded normal results. However, during a recent ENT consultation, a “suspicious lesion above the middle turbinate” was identified via endoscopy, which prompted a referral for an “urgent” CT scan (scheduled for three weeks from now, as we reside in Croatia). Currently, she does not exhibit any worsening symptoms such as facial swelling, altered vision, or recurring nosebleeds (two notable nosebleeds occurred around a year ago, but she has not experienced any since then). I have a few inquiries: 1. Is it feasible for a malignant tumor in the nasal or sinus region to arise or become significant within a mere three months, given that a fiberoptic endoscopy conducted three months earlier revealed no alarming findings? 2. Considering this clinical scenario, how much more likely could this be a nasal polyp or chronic inflammatory reaction as opposed to a cancerous growth? 3. Is there a possibility that such a lesion existed three months prior but eluded detection during the fiberoptic endoscopy? I greatly appreciate any guidance you can provide regarding these concerns.