![[dr. bob]](/dr-bob-sm.gif)
Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1 to 24 of 24. This is the beginning of the thread.
Posted by Drexxie on July 29, 2001, at 0:02:41
I've been on the following meds for over a year:
Wellbutrin 450 mgs.
Levoxyl.6mcgs (kept hyperthyroid forstimulant effects)
Adderall 60 mgs.
Dexedrine 30 mgs.
Celexia 60 mgs.This is the absolute first time I've ever experience such a problem. The problem? My legs (especially the left one) have become hideously swollen; both of my legs have extreme pitting in them. If one was to push down on the skin of my leg, it would feel like there was a wet sponge underneath the skin. You can actually feel the fluid push aside when pushing down on the skin.
My pdoc had labs done which tested electrolytes, kidney functioning, liver functioning, heart, thyroid level... Any and all tests that may be relevant in regards to this all over edema (yeah... even my fingers and face swell- embarrassing!)
The tests except the thyroid (which is kept hyperthyroid, as mentioned above) all came back completely within proper levels.
They reduce the thyroid, drastically (after all the other tests came back ok, they thought perhaps that may be the problem. Does the edema go away...? Lessen, even? NO! NO! NO! (feel like crying)
The edema stays, my mood continues to drop into that fathomless, dark abyss of depression. Thyroid significantly lower, edema remains the same (pants too tight, rings too tight- I feel like I'm in someone else's body!)
I apologize for babbling as such that I am, but please understand that I feel like I'm about ready to have some sort of 'breakdown' here (moving into a cave for the rest of my horrid life appeals to me right now! [sigh])
PLEASE, if anyone knows anything about these meds and if they could be to blame (delayed allergic reaction, perhaps?) for this edema... PLEASE tell me something.
At times like this it feels like I'd be better off taking no psych meds, whatsoever. That thought alone is enough to scare the beejebers out of me (perhaps some of you can understand why that's so scary a thought)I don't know. I feel so alone and ignorant in regards to these medicines and just what exactly they might be capable of yesterday, today, tomorrow... Might this puffy Drexxie be a result of one, or perhaps a combo of the above mentioned drugs?
I've put on 8 lbs. since this began approximately 6 weeks ago. I feel about like the Stay-Puff-Marshmellow-Man ! Inside I'm drowning, at this point I'm willing to go drug free immediately, in hopes that the fluid will drain... However, I think I'd better consider all alternatives prior to acting in what might be considered to be behavior that fall under the category of "impulsive."
If someone has any personal experience or has read something about meds. and edema, please relay your opinion to me. Then perhaps, I might be able to give my doctor a bit more to work with than, "My body is still swollen" (cry). It's got to be the meds, right?
The true "psycho babbler," (pathetic grin)
Drexxie
Posted by SalArmy4me on July 29, 2001, at 0:22:36
In reply to ELEPHANTINE LEGS?! (gasp!) IT'S MY MEDS, RIGHT?, posted by Drexxie on July 29, 2001, at 0:02:41
I have a very good article on this that I'd like to send to you, but I don't have your e-mail address:
{Barrett, Justine RN, DipHE. The assessment and treatment of patients with lymphoedema. Nursing Standard. 11(21):49-56, February 12, 1997.}
Posted by Zo on July 29, 2001, at 0:43:21
In reply to ELEPHANTINE LEGS?! (gasp!) IT'S MY MEDS, RIGHT?, posted by Drexxie on July 29, 2001, at 0:02:41
There's a thread on here somewhere where we talk about rashes and other allergic reactions to Wellbutrin. . .
good luck,
Zo
Posted by Drexxie on July 29, 2001, at 1:24:49
In reply to Re: ELEPHANTINE LEGS?! (gasp!) IT'S MY MEDS, RIGHT? » Drexxie, posted by SalArmy4me on July 29, 2001, at 0:22:36
> I have a very good article on this that I'd like to send to you, but I don't have your e-mail address:
>
> {Barrett, Justine RN, DipHE. The assessment and treatment of patients with lymphoedema. Nursing Standard. 11(21):49-56, February 12, 1997.}Thank you, thank you, thank you!! (huge smile)
I'll find that article if I have to go to a library (even if it's one in North Dakota! [silly grin])Seriously, I do appreciate your reference. I will find it as I'm desperate in regards to this swelling... I'm also becoming more and more terrified. I feel like I'll forever the the "elephant girl." (frown)
I'm going to seach for the article you mentioned, tonight yet. Oh, I only hope that there exists some understandable and treatable causes behind this spooky edema.
Irregardless, I greatly appreciate your taking the time to share such valuable information with me (big smile)
Still hoping that it's all just a "new" drug side effect.... -Drexxie
Posted by Drexxie on July 29, 2001, at 1:48:26
In reply to Re: ELEPHANTINE LEGS?! (gasp!) IT'S MY MEDS, RI » Drexxie, posted by Zo on July 29, 2001, at 0:43:21
> There's a thread on here somewhere where we talk about rashes and other allergic reactions to Wellbutrin. . .
>
> good luck,
> ZoThanks, Zo. I've found a couple of thread of Wellbutrin and Celexa (bloating) which were helpful, hopefully I find the one to which you're referring before whatever drug is doing this to me, leaves my water logged fingers too large to manipulate the keys on my computer (sheesh... I adhor this, yek, yek, yek) But I appreciate your message, Zo! (big smile)
Obviously a Relative of "Puff Daddy,"
Puff Drexxie
Posted by sl on July 29, 2001, at 11:49:18
In reply to Delayed side effect of Wellbutrin? (hopeful smile » Zo, posted by Drexxie on July 29, 2001, at 1:48:26
Yeah. I'd say try putting Thyroid meds back to what they were (since that obviously wasn't the prob and, well, you were on that dosage for a reason) and try reducing the Wellbutrin. You'll have to try to find a different AD that's equally effective for you, but hopefully the loss of edema will give you the boost to get through that in-between time that can be so hard.
sl
PS: I should have mentioned, I HAVE heard from people with that prob on Wellbutrin.
> > There's a thread on here somewhere where we talk about rashes and other allergic reactions to Wellbutrin. . .
> >
> > good luck,
> > Zo
>
> Thanks, Zo. I've found a couple of thread of Wellbutrin and Celexa (bloating) which were helpful, hopefully I find the one to which you're referring before whatever drug is doing this to me, leaves my water logged fingers too large to manipulate the keys on my computer (sheesh... I adhor this, yek, yek, yek) But I appreciate your message, Zo! (big smile)
>
> Obviously a Relative of "Puff Daddy,"
> Puff Drexxie
Posted by SalArmy4me on July 29, 2001, at 18:43:08
In reply to Re: ELEPHANTINE LEGS?! (gasp!) IT'S MY MEDS, RIGHT?, posted by Drexxie on July 29, 2001, at 1:24:49
Just give me your e-mail address and I'll send it to you.
> > I have a very good article on this that I'd like to send to you, but I don't have your e-mail address:
> >
> > {Barrett, Justine RN, DipHE. The assessment and treatment of patients with lymphoedema. Nursing Standard. 11(21):49-56, February 12, 1997.}
>
> Thank you, thank you, thank you!! (huge smile)
> I'll find that article if I have to go to a library (even if it's one in North Dakota! [silly grin])
>
> Seriously, I do appreciate your reference. I will find it as I'm desperate in regards to this swelling... I'm also becoming more and more terrified. I feel like I'll forever the the "elephant girl." (frown)
>
> I'm going to seach for the article you mentioned, tonight yet. Oh, I only hope that there exists some understandable and treatable causes behind this spooky edema.
>
> Irregardless, I greatly appreciate your taking the time to share such valuable information with me (big smile)
>
> Still hoping that it's all just a "new" drug side effect.... -Drexxie
Posted by DREXXIE on July 29, 2001, at 22:58:45
In reply to Re: ELEPHANTINE LEGS?! (gasp!) IT'S MY MEDS, RIGHT? » Drexxie, posted by SalArmy4me on July 29, 2001, at 18:43:08
> Just give me your e-mail address and I'll send it to you.
How nice of you (smile).
My email: Drexxie_Adams@yahoo.com
It'd be absolutely wonderful were my current medications not to be the culprits behind this troubling edema.
Thanks you! (big smile)
-Drexxie
Posted by terra miller on July 29, 2001, at 23:24:45
In reply to ELEPHANTINE LEGS?! (gasp!) IT'S MY MEDS, RIGHT?, posted by Drexxie on July 29, 2001, at 0:02:41
hi,
i have had swelling on two meds: serzone and wellbutrin. with both, lowering the doses caused the swelling to be less. i did not, however, have the edema to the extreme that you mentioned (but you have my sincerest sympathies.) btw, i continue to take wellbutrin just fine but at a lower level than earlier on, and a different "variety" (switching from sustained release to immediate release). alcohol can aggravate the situation. i hope your symptoms improve very soon. -terra
Posted by Drexxie on July 30, 2001, at 0:20:59
In reply to wellbutrin, etc. » Drexxie, posted by terra miller on July 29, 2001, at 23:24:45
> hi,
>
> i have had swelling on two meds: serzone and wellbutrin. with both, lowering the doses caused the swelling to be less. i did not, however, have the edema to the extreme that you mentioned (but you have my sincerest sympathies.) btw, i continue to take wellbutrin just fine but at a lower level than earlier on, and a different "variety" (switching from sustained release to immediate release). alcohol can aggravate the situation. i hope your symptoms improve very soon. -terra
Hello, Terra...Your message was most appreciated! Thank you! (smile)
After perusing some of the posts regarding Wellbutrin and other meds, I became suspicious of both, Celexa and Wellbutrin. I am now relatively certain that Wellbutrin is to 'blame' (whew!)
Had it not been for letters such as yours, I honestly don't know what I would have done in regards to this pitting edema. Seriously, I was clueless and seemingly, those around me were, as well.
With side effects on some of these meds running the gamet, when atypical reactions occur on a 'personal' level, identifying the 'problem drug,' appears to be much like, "finding a needle in the haystack!"
Fortunately, we've opportunity (via sites such as this) to share the insight and knowledge that only personal experience provides. IMHO, finding things out, the "hard way," is highly overrated! (grin)
My pdoc will definitely not be able to 'pass off' this edema any longer (exhale!). What a relief! He's refused to entertain the idea that any of my psych meds could have been at fault! Now, however, I do believe he'll be more apt to listen (big smile).
Again, thank you, Terra!
-Drexxie
Posted by Drexxie on July 30, 2001, at 1:33:57
In reply to Re: Delayed side effect of Wellbutrin? (hopeful smile, posted by sl on July 29, 2001, at 11:49:18
> Yeah. I'd say try putting Thyroid meds back to what they were (since that obviously wasn't the prob and, well, you were on that dosage for a reason) and try reducing the Wellbutrin. You'll have to try to find a different AD that's equally effective for you, but hopefully the loss of edema will give you the boost to get through that in-between time that can be so hard.
>
> sl
>
> PS: I should have mentioned, I HAVE heard from people with that prob on Wellbutrin.
>Thank you, SL! (big smile)
I can't wait to mention information such as what you've relayed to me to my pdoc! I do believe that he'll have to admit that there might just possibly be a correlation b/t my psych meds (ie Wellbutrin) and the pitting edema in my legs!
Additionally, I agree with you in regards to the thyroid hormones. I'm going to seriously discuss with my dear pdoc, stopping this Wellbutrin and finding another AD. It is indeed a challenging thing having to return to the abyss and search for that elusive AD which just might be the one!
It's definitely not s/th of which I look forward (sigh).Nevertheless, I do plan on making use of your suggestion that I concentrate on how wonderful it'll be having legs that aren't painfully pitting and swollen! That's a fantastic idea! (smile)
One thing that I know is going to make a positive impact throughout this ordeal, is my being able to communicate with others, just like yourself and so many on this site, who have the experience and insight in which allows one to understand and relate to these type of experiences.
It's a relief for me to know that there are those who understood; and by their doing so... I'm thus, not alone! (small smile)
The ever hopeful! (huge grin)
-Drexxie
Posted by kazoo on July 30, 2001, at 1:43:07
In reply to ELEPHANTINE LEGS?! (gasp!) IT'S MY MEDS, RIGHT?, posted by Drexxie on July 29, 2001, at 0:02:41
Have you tried cutting out all salt from your diet (or reducing the amount)?
It sounds like you're retaining water.
If LASIX doesn't contraindicate with any of the other stuff you're taking, ask your doctor for some to rid your body of excess water.My mother had the same problem, and the LASIX was a tremendous help.
It's worth a try, if safe for you.
(a salt-free) KaZoO
Posted by terra miller on July 31, 2001, at 0:03:03
In reply to Re: wellbutrin, etc. --- Ahhh ! » terra miller, posted by Drexxie on July 30, 2001, at 0:20:59
i'm thankful that my pdoc always believes me. i seem to be the one who causes those "< 1% statistics" to be graphed. i always get those "rare" side-effects. but my pdoc must have been around for long enough to know that even "rare" side-effects are possibilities. i am living proof. :-) take care- terra
Posted by Gracie2 on August 1, 2001, at 3:48:52
In reply to ELEPHANTINE LEGS?! (gasp!) IT'S MY MEDS, RIGHT?, posted by Drexxie on July 29, 2001, at 0:02:41
My heart goes out to you dear. I had the same problem last year and it scared the bejesus out of me. My feet were so swollen, I couldn't wear shoes.
I was taking a lot of antidepressants, but I also have high blood pressure. The doctor changed my BP medicine to Prinzide, and the swelling disappeared in two days. Even if you don't have hypertension, please get a complete physical checkup.
Luck-
Gracie
Posted by Drexxie on August 4, 2001, at 14:44:19
In reply to Re: ELEPHANTINE LEGS?! (gasp!) IT'S MY MEDS, RIGHT?, posted by Gracie2 on August 1, 2001, at 3:48:52
Thank you Gracie2.
I am taking your advice! It's good to know that I won't always have these water-logged legs.
Always nice to know that others have "been there" and survived! (big smile)
I appreciate your message and words of hope!
-Drexxie>
> My heart goes out to you dear. I had the same problem last year and it scared the bejesus out of me. My feet were so swollen, I couldn't wear shoes.
> I was taking a lot of antidepressants, but I also have high blood pressure. The doctor changed my BP medicine to Prinzide, and the swelling disappeared in two days. Even if you don't have hypertension, please get a complete physical checkup.
> Luck-
> Gracie
Posted by Drexxie on August 4, 2001, at 15:08:47
In reply to Re: IT'S MY MEDS, RIGHT? No, it's SALT. » Drexxie, posted by kazoo on July 30, 2001, at 1:43:07
Ahh... Yes, the sodium factor. I suppose I, too, need to become more like the "salt-free Kazoo" (grin)
Thank you for that very important and helpful bit of advice, Kazoo!
Additionally, in regards to Lasix, I'm goint to bring that bit of information to the attention of my doctor. He had mentioned that I might need to get on something of the sort, and thank to you, I'll walk into his office, knowing one that will work.
Best of luck to you, dear Kazoo (and to your moms, as well [smile])
> Have you tried cutting out all salt from your diet (or reducing the amount)?
> It sounds like you're retaining water.
> If LASIX doesn't contraindicate with any of the other stuff you're taking, ask your doctor for some to rid your body of excess water.
>
> My mother had the same problem, and the LASIX was a tremendous help.
>
> It's worth a try, if safe for you.
>
> (a salt-free) KaZoO
Posted by kazoo on August 4, 2001, at 18:01:34
In reply to Re: IT'S MY MEDS, RIGHT? No, it's SALT. » kazoo, posted by Drexxie on August 4, 2001, at 15:08:47
> Ahh... Yes, the sodium factor. I suppose I, too, need to become more like the "salt-free Kazoo" (grin)
>
> Thank you for that very important and helpful bit of advice, Kazoo!
>
> Additionally, in regards to Lasix, I'm goint to bring that bit of information to the attention of my doctor. He had mentioned that I might need to get on something of the sort, and thank to you, I'll walk into his office, knowing one that will work.
>
> Best of luck to you, dear Kazoo (and to your moms, as well [smile])
>> > Have you tried cutting out all salt from your diet (or reducing the amount)?
> > It sounds like you're retaining water.
> > If LASIX doesn't contraindicate with any of the other stuff you're taking, ask your doctor for some to rid your body of excess water.
> >
> > My mother had the same problem, and the LASIX was a tremendous help.
> >
> > It's worth a try, if safe for you.
> >
> > (a salt-free) KaZoOYou're welcome, my dear.
Let me further say that there's SALT in EVERYTHING these days, especially those things which we don't suspect; i.e., soda pop, ice cream, breakfast cereal, etc.
Going on a salt-free diet is torture because it's not so much the salt you put on your food, but the salt ALREADY in the product. It's ridiculous. And I will tell you that food will taste just awful without the stuff, but you'll get used to it ... takes about seven days.
I have no idea what the minimum or maximum amount of salt one should have per day, and I was wondering if some kind poster could answer this question?
What I do is check the sodium content of every supermarket item. If it's too high (anything over 150mg), I don't get it. And forget about fast food places: they thrive on the stuff. Chinese food is high in salt, too.
A TIP: get rid of ALL the salt shakers in the house because the temptation is always present.
Good luck to you, also, my dear.
kazoo
Posted by Willow on August 4, 2001, at 19:12:45
In reply to Re: IT'S MY MEDS, RIGHT? No, it's SALT. » Drexxie, posted by kazoo on August 4, 2001, at 18:01:34
> I have no idea what the minimum or maximum amount of salt one should have per day,
Ever hear the saying, "Worth his weight in salt!" Each person's requirement is different. The more physically active will require more.
Whispering Willow
Posted by Drexxie on August 4, 2001, at 19:47:48
In reply to Re: IT'S MY MEDS, RIGHT? No, it's SALT. » Drexxie, posted by kazoo on August 4, 2001, at 18:01:34
Ugh! I hate to admit it, but I am a salt junkie pertaining to prepared foods. I know that my sodium intake has to be part of the problem at least, if not all.
My pdoc stated that he is going to phone Glaxo-Welcome (makers of Wellbutrin, or whoever makes the stuff) and ask if my edema might be resulting from that whopping 450 mgs. each day.Oh yes, BTW, I did discuss lowering my Wellburtrin SR 150 mgs., take 3 in the morning (although I would at times, take them at night to help me fall asleep faster than with the Dexedrin alone....) and
I have his support to SLOWLY wean off of it altogether and find antoher AD (although I additionaly take 60 mg of Celexa daily.... which later I'll try to wean off of SLOWLY, if he so allows it. - I have a terrible tendency to simply just stop taking medicines that I've been on for a rather significant time. Luckily I've not yet had some serious problems. It's a habit I'm trying to break. I'm way to impulsive and hate waiting on anything. Want it all yesterday, as how I once heard it adroitly stated. (giggle)Sorry for my rambling and jumping around in regards to topic, my AD(H)D is still giving me a terrible time. Luckily however, I will soon be switching from Dexedrine to Desoxyn (my pdoc thinks this really may make a differnce. Jeez... I do hope so b/c running at this pace and feeling like I can't hold a thought is a uncomfortable and ebmarrassing way to exist.
As Always... Thanks, dear Kazoo,
-Drex
Posted by Drexxie on August 4, 2001, at 20:20:18
In reply to SALT., posted by Willow on August 4, 2001, at 19:12:45
> > I have no idea what the minimum or maximum amount of salt one should have per day,
>
> Ever hear the saying, "Worth his weight in salt!" Each person's requirement is different. The more physically active will require more.
>
> Whispering Willow
Good point, Willow. Thank you.
Which would explain why some coaches give their athletes salt pills during periods in which they perspire profusely.
(smile)Hmm... I doubt I'll be needing much salt (grin).
Jeez... If only I would be worth, "my weight in gold!" (laughing)My pdoc is wanting me to go to an endocrinologist, so perhaps I'll know more answers soon. No doubt, the posts that I've received on this site will allow me to
better know what kind of things I might need to relay to him.I'll be soooo happy/relieved when my body returns to what I once considered 'normal'.
I appreciate your reply, Willow, and of course, wish you all the best! (smile)
-Drexxie
Posted by Willow on August 4, 2001, at 20:30:25
In reply to Salt... » Willow, posted by Drexxie on August 4, 2001, at 20:20:18
> Jeez... If only I would be worth, "my weight in gold!" (laughing)
I'm sure you are!
Best Wishes
Willow
Posted by Drexxie on August 4, 2001, at 22:15:48
In reply to Gold ..., posted by Willow on August 4, 2001, at 20:30:25
Awh, Willow, thank you! (big smile)
As one currently struggling with the AD(H)D 'monster' (who's quite out-of-control)
and my being notified approximately one hour ago that my aunt just died (just typing that makes me want to scream, cry, run naked down the street pulling out my hair, so to speak... The empty void hurts.)I must let you know, your extemely kind and generous words, seem to have helped me more at this exact moment than
any and all the pills, I've had to cling to thus far today.Succinctly, your words illustrate to me the fact that when it comes to mending and helping, there are moments when, words filled with kindness and compassion are more effective than even the most acclaimed pharmaceuticals available.
Okay, here's my poor analogy... Our words to one another are much more... For in them we can send powerful doses of either poisons, or a curatives. And... Either unfortunately, or fortunately, in each of our hearts, these doses have a "half-life" of quite possibly, forever...
Thank you...(and please, forgive this emotional mush-mush, of mine. yek [small smile])
I assure you, this sort of gunk isn't common for,
- Drex> Jeez... If only I would be worth, "my weight in gold!" (laughing)
>
> I'm sure you are!
>
> Best Wishes
> Willow
Posted by Willow on August 4, 2001, at 22:30:43
In reply to A Heart of Gold ... » Willow, posted by Drexxie on August 4, 2001, at 22:15:48
> Okay, here's my poor analogy... Our words to one another are much more... For in them we can send powerful doses of either poisons, or a curatives. And... Either unfortunately, or fortunately, in each of our hearts, these doses have a "half-life" of quite possibly, forever...
Words such as you have spoken I wish could be published, so many could hear them. They are so true and could do so much good.
> Thank you...(and please, forgive this emotional mush-mush, of mine. yek [small smile])
As one cyber-friend commonly points out to me, "no need to be sorry!"
Having said that I'm wondering if you are alone right now. When my father had his heart attack the worst was not being able to share my grief with someone. (It wasn't fatal but just showed me how fragile our loved ones lives can be.) I understand your grief and wish I could lessen it, but perhaps it is there to help heal the void caused by your loss.Willow
Posted by Drexxie on August 5, 2001, at 1:46:55
In reply to An analogy all should read ..., posted by Willow on August 4, 2001, at 22:30:43
Willow.... I posted you a message (I warn you a REALY, REALLY long one on the Psycho-Social-Babble (smile) -Drex
> > Okay, here's my poor analogy... Our words to one another are much more... For in them we can send powerful doses of either poisons, or a curatives. And... Either unfortunately, or fortunately, in each of our hearts, these doses have a "half-life" of quite possibly, forever...
>
> Words such as you have spoken I wish could be published, so many could hear them. They are so true and could do so much good.
>
> > Thank you...(and please, forgive this emotional mush-mush, of mine. yek [small smile])
>
> As one cyber-friend commonly points out to me, "no need to be sorry!"
> Having said that I'm wondering if you are alone right now. When my father had his heart attack the worst was not being able to share my grief with someone. (It wasn't fatal but just showed me how fragile our loved ones lives can be.) I understand your grief and wish I could lessen it, but perhaps it is there to help heal the void caused by your loss.
>
> Willow
This is the end of the thread.
Psycho-Babble Medication | Extras | FAQ
Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.org
Script revised: February 4, 2008
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/cgi-bin/pb/mget.pl
Copyright 2006-17 Robert Hsiung.
Owned and operated by Dr. Bob LLC and not the University of Chicago.