Posted by Cam W. on March 5, 2000, at 21:31:41
In reply to Re: Atypical depression and ECT to CamW, posted by JanetR on March 5, 2000, at 16:39:43
Jan - Atypical depression is a depression where you see symptoms that are the opposite of what we expect in depression. In atypical depressions a person may eat a lot, sleep less, etc. I am not that familiar with the clinical aspects of atypical depression, as I do not see it that often. Maybe put out a feeler for others in this room, on a new thread and you will get a more in depth view of atypical depression.
Another caveat for the following. I am the drug guy and have never personally seen an ECT being performed (I work in the community). I have talked to many people who have undergone this procedure and hear more good than bad.
I am assuming you have failed on adequate trials of at least three antidepressants, so you do qualify for ECT. If I had to choose I would opt for the ECT for myself. Side-effects are minimal and transient and usually disappear within a week. The most mentioned side effect is amnesia, which is not a problem in most people. I have heard about a few cases where the amnesia has lingered for about a month, but I think this is the exception to the rule. The people I have talked to after having their first treatment generally say that they haven't felt that good in a long time. I do believe this effect fades, though. A full course of ECT is 6 treatments, but 10 to 15 treatments are not uncommon in refractory cases. You may also get periodic follow-up treatments. Talk it over with your doc. I think it might be worth a shot. Good Luck - Cam W.
poster:Cam W.
thread:25780
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000302/msgs/26071.html