1.Is it BP 1 or BP 2?\n2.Is it hard for you to hold a job?\n3. What are your symptoms?\n4. How often do you have an episode?\n5. Do you have a child that has BP also?\n6.What medications are you currently taking and are they helpful?\n\nThanks!
201827
I'm bipolar. The predominant symptom with me is the depression. It is dark, empty and so incredibly lonely. I tried to commit suicide 4 years ago and that wasn't even my low point. There are other symptoms too like anxiety, paranoia, social anxiety, ocd....I've been married twice (one time for only 3 months) I've claimed personal bankruptcy twice and have moved 10 times over the past 8 years. I maintained a great career for 12 years as an illustrator but lost my job 14 months ago when I went manic and got into drugs like pot, cocaine and ecstasy. Last year I was in a mental hospital 3 times for 1-2 weeks each time. It seems like I've been on every mood stabilizer under the sun like risperdal, lithium, epival, olanzapine and anti-depressants like paxil, effexor and wellbutrin.\nI've been on an anti-seizure med called lamotrigine/lamactil and wellbutrin since January and I'm doing great (knock on wood). Currently I'm back in school ironically to become a pharmacy technician.\nAs rotten as all that stuff sounds I think there is hope for people with bipolar. The most important thing is to not make the same mistake when I stopped taking my meds. The meds are for a reason and when we feel better it's because of the meds and a good reason to keep taking them.\nI've got a daughter and not a day goes by without me praying that she never has to go through the same pain that I've gone through.
395529
It is a very good tonic and other than hypertension, can cure other diseases like chronic skin problems, rids you of worms also. However,like all other medicine, you need to take a break. Since you have been taking it for 2 months continuously, break off for about 15days, check your BP and start only if your BP has increased drastically. If not, let the break continue for another 10 days and then restart the tonic. Good luck!
242680
i was just looking at this today....my blood pressure is borderline, adn need to lay off some sodium or take meds....\n\ni found that the daily allowance is 2400mg, and anything under 5% daily allowance looks good...increase fruits and veggies, and be careful with processed and canned foods...\n\nhere is a really helpful PDF i found that has lots of info....and step by step instructions...\n\nhope it helps...\n\nhttp://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/public/heart/hbp/dash/new_dash.pdf
448286
No issues, as long as you find the right meds and keep taking them. I am bipolar and have been for 25+ years. I have been married 20 years and hold down a very high pressure job.
86391
Most of us in the medical profession give an answer based on knowledge and/or experience....and we always make a point of saying....talk to your physician or get to the ER pronto.  The question about the BP of 200/100 bothered me also...Using "herbs" was not a good answer either (it wasn't chosen)....that BP needed quick intervention...\n\nI think the questions are sincere...at least most of them.  I also know answers can be found in a search engine.  I think some people ask questions on this type forum to get their answers in layman's term, not medical mumbo jumbo.  I also think many are afraid to ask questions of those who care for them and/or their loved ones.  Lets face it, some doctors do not visit a patient long enough to allow pts time to ask questions...and if the questions are asked, they (the doctors and other medical personel) throw out terms the average person never heard of.....\n\nI think there is a need for this type forum....I also think the persons asking questions should do more research via their physician and on the internet.  The answers here should not be a quick fix, nor should the askers limit their knowledge to what they read in these answers.\n  \nPersonally I have learned a lot about different areas of medicine because of some answers. I've gone into specific areas I found in search engines...because I knew what to look for from the info given.  Sometimes the info is a link...sometimes it is a term used....it differs, but the door IS open to do the research.\n\nI would suggest that every person asking a question get better use from the answers by doing more research if there is time...or get to your physician or ER if the problem needs immediate intervention....Got chest pain?  Don't stop here...bypass Yahoo and get to the ER!!  DAH!
29110
Funny that you should mention losing your mother, because in an article I recently read about causes of bipolar, one that was expressedly listed was "a death in the family". I'm not sure of your age, as that may have something to do with it, but in these situations, see a psychologist, and if you are diagnosed with it (or not), I would get a few other opinions, because it is a major disorder. \n\nNot to call you crazy or any of that, but it's something to be taken very seriously, because it can really effect your life in a strongly negative way if you don't take care of it.\n\nAll people vary, and I don't know your age. For all I know this could be a part of puberty that just had coincidental timing or something of that nature. Surely see someone and do some research, I've included a great site to read up on it.\n\nhttp://bipolar.about.com/cs/bpbasics/a/what_causes_bp.htm
259016
Do you possibly have ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder?)\nI do have ADD and social and work environments are tough and yes I have lost jobs but I learn from \n\nhttp://www.addmtc.com/shortcut.html\n\n\n\nIn my experience, each of the following is a valuable clinical clue to the diagnosis of ADD/ADHD.\n\n\nVirtually ABSOLUTE indicators of ADD/ADHD brain chemistry\n\n   1. Hyperactivity/Fidgetiness\n   2. Impulsivity (hyperactivity of the mind)\n   3. Unexplained inattention for "boring" mental activities\n   4. Primary nocturnal enuresis or bedwetting while sleeping at night\n   5. Episodic Explosiveness, also called Tantrums or Emotional Outbursts\n\nStrongly SUGGESTIVE indicators of ADD/ADHD brain chemistry\n\n   6. Waking slowly, not snapping awake, and/or being excessively grouchy without reason in the morning (91%)\n   7. Difficulty falling asleep at night (73%)\n   8. Unexplained irritability and easy frustration (very common)\n   9. Unexplained negativity with or without depression (common)\n  10. Verbal and/or spatial dyslexia (55%)\n\n\n\nWhatever you believe will happen!\nso  find that job you will love!\n\n\nTips for a job hunt. There is more hiring happening!\n\n� "Forget what's available out there" and go for the job you want the most.\n\n� Change the message on your answering machine: Put the kind of work you're looking for in your greeting. "Hi this is Heather. I'm busy right now looking for a job in the finance department at a startup company. I recently saw a candidate wearing a t-shirt with a brief summary of their skills. Now that is marketing yourself!\n\n� Write the phrase "Pay no attention to whether there is an opening (vacancy)" on a piece of paper, paste it on your bathroom mirror and memorize it and repeat it to yourself every morning. It will speed up your job search and you'll keep a positive outlook. Use the web and library (ask the reference librarian) to get ideas on companies you should target.\n\n� Concentrate the majority of your search on companies with fewer than 100 employees. Just because the larger firms are having layoffs doesn't mean the smaller companies aren't hiring. The recovery is already underway at smaller companies.\n\n� Get out of the house. Knock on doors. Do research online or at the library about the places you'd like to work. Then stop in and ask if they are hiring anyone with your skills. Your physical presence will make an impression on the hiring authority. Or tell them "I already e-mailed my resume and\nI would like to put a face with the resume I sent (have a hard copy in your hand). Tell the receptionist that you need her help. At one company where I worked an applicant showed up in a bunny suit, skip that bunny suit idea.\n\n� Be willing to look at different kinds of jobs: full-time, part-time, short term contracts, temporary jobs etc. Consider these jobs as a bridge.\n\n� Join a job seeking support group to get you going and to sustain your momentum. This is so crucial. You are not alone out there. Don't miss an opportunity to network. My hairstylist and Doctor have referred many great candidates to me. I heard about someone who told their Doctor they needed work, they had a job the next day. Join your alumni! Network at your church. Keep seeking new ways to market yourself.\n\n� Make a simple business card with the job you are looking for along with your contact info and e-mail address. The office supply stores sell the business cards stock so you can print them at home and save a bundle. I added a postage stamp sized photo to my business card. I saw a minature resume on one side of biz card.\n\n� Don't be wearied by rejection. The more noes you get out of the way, the closer you are to a yes.\n\n� Dont' just e-mail your resume. Try Faxing and snail ( U.S.) mailing your resume & cover letter. Companies are overwhelmed by e-mailed resumes. I know someone who got an inter
259355
Those are good questions but you need good sleep, diet, exercise and really follow through with a doctor's recomendations.  Trying to line up your questions before you see your doctor sound like anxiety and you should jot down some questions and submit them to your doctor.  Just make an honest try at your doctor's suggestions and that will be your best bet.  Get some rest and try to avoid the anxiety of these conditions.  Things will unfold at their proper time but listen to your doctor not some internet crap.  Follow your doctor's advice to a tee.
163016
I haven't had any kids yet, but I still have spells of low blood pressure. Eating salt does help, mild excercise can help a little (it averages it out, not necessarily raises it). Also, you might consider beef jerkey. It's salty and has a lot of iron and protien, unless you're a vegetarian of course.
379328
i have it.it feels like someone is pouring boiling hot water down my back.then some takes me by the head and keeps beating me into a brick wall..this illness really sucks.go to fibrohugs.com.and look for letter to normals.that about sums it up!
474782
Are you underweight? I would encourage you to see your doctor. You could be dehydrated for some reason. Also your medications may need adjusting if you are feeling too weak or tired. Are some of your BP medications diuretics? If so, you could be dehydrated from these. Please talk to your doctor and see what needs to be done. Your electrolytes could also be out of order.
621155
I'm 41 and was diagnosed with Bipolar last year as well.  I can tell you that I experienced the same issues that you are experiencing.  I had the same issues about getting dressed but I had bigger issues with keeping my house clean.  It got so bad that we had to use paper plates.  I spoke to my Psychiatrist about it and he increased the dose of one of my meds. which at least gave me the motivation to get things done.  The other thing that helps me a lot is a list.  Every day I make a list of the things I want to get done that day.  I know it sounds simple but it really does help.  Good Luck.
507241
Therapy and medication if your therapist and you decide that is the route to go.  You are not alone in your diagnosis.  At least you know what the issue is, continue with therapy as long as you need to and don't feel bad for having BPD - it's nothing  you asked for, and nothing YOU can control.  God bless!!!!
346385
First let me say that I'm sorry that you're suffering.  I would advise that you ignore all of these people who are telling you whether or not you are bipolar.  None of us are Dr's and you haven't given us the full story.\n\nBiopolar Disorder is very complex and comes in many different classifications or "flavors".  The diagnostic criteria is constantly being revised due to the fact that new research is being done and there are many misdiagnosed cases.\n\nYou may or may not have it;  You may have a different type of mood disorder, but these diagnosis don't come within days or weeks.  It takes close observation for several months or years to come to a firm diagnosis for one of these complex mood disorders. \n\nNow; analyzing what you said I can understand why your Dr thinks you're BP.  Prozac is in the antidepressant group of SSRI's (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)  while these work great for cases of major depression; they are absoultely terrible for bipolar patients.  The SSRI's will trigger mania and increase bipolar depression.  For cases of BP (and other mood disorders) the front line medication is usually an anticonvulsant (mood stabilizer).  Some of the popular mood stabilizers are; Lithium, Depakote, Topamax and Lamictal.\n\nAs per the Effexor, it's part of a different group of antidipressants called MRI's (multiple reuptake inhibitor).  This is also a no no for bipolar patients, not only triggering mania, but rapid cycling (vast mood swings).  It's known that Effexor is the hardest antidpressant to stop taking and comes with the harshest withdrawal symptoms.  If you're misdiagnosed with major depression instead of bipolar disorder and your hooked on Effexor, life is going to suck.\n\nThe safest antidepressant available for bipolar patients is said to be Wellbutrin, which is also an MRI.  This should be prescribed as an adjunct medication to an anticonvulsant in treating bipolar depression.  This is a cocktail that my doc has had a tremendous amount of success with.\n\nI've been diagnosed with a few mood disorders and have gone through different Dr's and different meds for a while, before I was able to get stabilized.  The meds will only take you so far, so in addition to med management therapy, I participate in cognitive behavioral therapy and group therapy to learn how to manage myself beyond the medication.\n\nThink of your support tools as if they were things that you needed in the field of battle.  Depression is your enemy, the medication is your armour and weaponry and your Dr's are your field comanders.  You'll need all three to make it out of the trenches alive.\n\nI hope this helps and that you get well soon.
625381
There are many factors that can cause hypertension (high blood Pressure.) Some of the factors that you can control to lower the BP are, Caffeine, smoking, Sodium, and stress. A regular sleep schedule, and exercise have also been shown to help in most cases.\n\nHe should also start taking his BP on a regular basis, and documenting it so if it can not be brought under control you have a base line to provide you doctor with.
488693
Sure. Try this one on for size. I was born back in 1957, with a tiny\nwhole in my heart. In the summer of '58, when I was just 16 mos.\nyoung, I had to go under the knife for open-heart surgery. \nThen, when I was closed up, a blod-clot formed, went all the way \nup to my brain, and formed a lesion: the final result was Epilepsy,\nwhich I continue to live with today--and which quite recently was\nthe result of depression, which epileptics are more prone to than\nanyone else. \nI am not yet absolutely sure that the symptoms of my depression are over with per se. (Only time shall tell.) All I can say for sure right now is that the anxiety attacks I've had up til now were 100 times than any seizures I've ever experienced over a time span\nspan of nearly 37 years.
79293
How's your blood pressure? Have you been able to keep fluids down? This is too complicated without running some tests. You may want to go see your doctor or go to the ER.