Experiencing Persistent Headaches After Quitting Sertraline
Greetings! For the past couple of weeks, I've been suffering from some troubling headaches. It all started last Tuesday when I woke up feeling dizzy and extremely anxious, and I ended up vomiting twice. This same pattern occurred on Wednesday, prompting me to contact my doctor. He suggested that I might be dealing with late withdrawal symptoms from sertraline, as I have a heightened sensitivity to SSRIs. I had been on a dosage of 25-50mg of Zoloft for approximately a month, and it's now been four weeks since I stopped abruptly. Since that initial episode, I've faced ongoing issues including anxiety, nausea, and light-headedness. Additionally, from Wednesday onward, I’ve started to experience a mild headache and some blurred vision. Thankfully, the pain in my head seems to be gradually improving each day, though the nausea lingers. I tried taking migraine medication, but it didn’t provide relief; the only thing that seems to help is hydroxyzine, which I use occasionally. Concerned about my symptoms, I decided to have an MRI of my head done about two days ago to rule out any serious issues. The results are expected to come back in about three to five weeks. Should I be concerned about my symptoms? Is there anything I can do while I wait for the MRI results? Thank you for your advice!
Answers (1)
7/27/2025, 12:20:42 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear about your ongoing headaches and other symptoms after stopping sertraline. It's understandable to feel concerned, especially with the additional symptoms you're experiencing. Here's a summary and actionable steps you can take while you wait for your MRI results.
Main Points:
- Your symptoms, including headaches, nausea, and anxiety, could be related to withdrawal from sertraline, especially since you stopped it abruptly after a short duration of use.
- It's important to monitor your symptoms and take steps to manage them.
Explanation:
Withdrawal symptoms can vary greatly and may include headaches, anxiety, nausea, and dizziness. In your case, the timing suggests that these symptoms are likely related to stopping sertraline, particularly since you've mentioned a heightened sensitivity to SSRIs. The blurred vision can be concerning, but it could also be a side effect of anxiety or other factors at play.
Next Steps:
-
Stay Hydrated: Make sure you drink plenty of water throughout the day, as dehydration can exacerbate headaches and nausea.
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Manage Headaches: In addition to hydroxyzine, consider non-pharmacological strategies to alleviate headaches, such as:
- Applying a cold compress to your forehead.
- Practicing relaxation techniques, like deep breathing or gentle yoga.
- Ensuring you're getting enough rest and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule.
-
Anxiety Management: Since anxiety is contributing to your symptoms, try engaging in calming activities such as meditation, light exercise, or hobbies that you enjoy. You may also find it helpful to connect with supportive friends or family.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a symptom diary to track your headaches, nausea, and any changes in your condition. Note when symptoms occur, their severity, and any potential triggers. This can help you identify patterns and prepare to discuss them with your doctor later.
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Avoid Known Triggers: Pay attention to any foods, drinks, or activities that seem to worsen your symptoms. Caffeine and heavy meals can sometimes contribute to headaches or nausea.
If your symptoms worsen significantly, such as severe headaches, changes in vision, or new neurological symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention sooner.
Please remember that while it can be concerning to wait for test results, many individuals experience withdrawal symptoms that improve gradually over time. Take care of yourself during this period, and feel free to reach out if you have further questions or need support.
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