Posted by kirbyw on December 16, 2009, at 0:05:11
In reply to Atypical Depression versus Bipolar Depression, posted by SLS on December 14, 2009, at 7:26:02
In my most recent psychiatric consultation with Dr. Goldberg in New York, he found traits of bi-polar illness in both of my parents, based on their histories. But I have no manic states at all ever. I have had severe
"endogenous" depressive states, which have generally responded well to Parnate, but to no other AD's at all. Dr. Goldberg diagnosed me as having Atypical Depression, and recommended adding Lithium to my Parnate. When depressed I can sleep for 20 out of 24 hours, have ruminations, and a high degree of anxiety. When normal, that is not depressed, I am not manic but am "high functioning" in term of social relations, career etc. I have a Doctorate,and have had an interesting career. Generally I don't lose a job when i am severely depressed. I just go to work distracted, ruminating, and highly anxious but am able to keep it hidden from my peers. Its stressful. I get enough done, to avoid drawing attention to myself.I also am always very sensitive to rejection, but extremely sensitive when more depressed. Both Dr. goldberg and Dr. Scheftner at Rush Medical Center in Chicago feel that there is a latent and 'invisible' bi-polar component to my depression. Both have recommended the Lithium.
I am having a tough time with Lithium because I already have a bladder problem with a urinary frequency problem, and I have the impression that Lithium is making this worse. So, temporarily, since I will be traveling over the holidays, I am limiting the Lithium to 300 mg per day, only in the morning. Will try again at 600 mg when I get back home.
Rick
poster:kirbyw
thread:929182
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20091206/msgs/929506.html