Posted by Larry Hoover on September 5, 2004, at 14:04:14
In reply to Re: seasonal variability » Larry Hoover, posted by Simus on September 5, 2004, at 12:14:40
> > > I have noticed that I seem to have a yearly "symptom" cycle. Right around August I have had anxiety and just feel generally dizzy/nausious and yucky. Then around January I have had to deal with depression and low energy. I am wondering if the thyroid can fluctuate between a little too high and a little too low throughout the year.
> >
> > Have you considered Seasonal Affective Disorder (the acronym SAD is very appropriate)?
> >
> > It may be related to: light exposure, and thus melatonin synthesis in the pineal gland; vitamin D status (sunlight on skin is the major source of this vitamin); diet changes due to seasonal availability of foods.
> >
> > Lar
>
> I am very sensitive to sunlight or lack thereof. If I am outside a LOT on a midsummer day in direct sunlight, I feel sick for a couple of days after (anxiety, nausea, shaky).There is a syndrome which, for want of a better term, is called photo-allergy. An allergy to sunlight sounds absurd, but some people are so inclined.
> My psych doctor must have concluded that I have SAD, because he pushes me every winter to use the "lamp". It is only marginally effective though.
It is better used prophylactically, than as a treatment. Some people benefit most when they start using it now, around the autumnal equinox.
> It is a good lamp and it helps, but it does not take the place of sunshine. By the way, I LOVE spring and autumn.
I love spring and autumn, too, and I also have a seasonal variation in my well-being. I am ambivalent about the lamp, too, but I'm going to use it. Last year, I didn't, and I had a very rough winter.
> How are YOU doing, Lar??? You are so busy answering questions that you don't give us many updates. I can't help you much, but I can pray. =)
>
> SimusAwwww. Caring for me is all I really need. Thanks for asking.
My MRI was inconclusive, and my elbow has not gotten any better. It's still as bad, or worse, than it was in March. I've been referred to one of Canada's top elbow guys, but that's going to take some time to get to diagnosis and treatment. It's still not clear what's wrong, although something certainly is.
Otherwise, I'm doing all right, I guess. I filled out an application for a full-time government job, so I must be feeling both well-enough and hopeful.
How are you doing?
Lar
poster:Larry Hoover
thread:384584
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/alter/20040901/msgs/386736.html