Anyone with depression before pm?
I've suffered from depression most of my life, and have been on antidepressants for many years, but have never had a complete remission. I guess I was hoping that getting a pm would help, since my physical health would improve, and maybe alleviate some of the depression. (I've been sick for nearly 3 years, dx with fibromyalgia, and fatigue that had been increasing in intensity over the past year. So my depression had really been getting worse.)
It's been 3 weeks since getting my pm, Medtronic Adapta rate responsive. I've noticed a huge improvement in my blood circulation, and now have color in my face and no longer have the foggy thinking, although I'm still having memory issues.
Unfortunately, the depression has not diminished. I actually feel worse, and wonder if I would have even done this if I'd been able to think clearly about it. I feel like my hopes were too great - or is it too early to tell? Has anyone been through this, or something similar? I will be seeing both my cardiologist and psychologist within the next couple weeks, but am hoping to find someone who has dealt with both issues.
thanks,
M_Fox
4 Comments
Depressed with fibromyalgia
by joyunderhiswings - 2007-03-28 08:03:28
I totally understand where you are at. My pacemaker was implanted December 2006. I have fibromyalgia, ten years now, and have seen some improvement in energy since having the implant for AV Node Block. However, I did feel much more depressed, at first, which I think is because feeling so lousy with the fibromyalgia, I was so disappointed the PM caused so much pain..and my chest area continues to be very sensitive. It was overwhelming to have to quit a job I loved, be unable to support my daughter and myself financially all at once, and to have daily pain, weakness and stiffness to deal with. Give yourself more time. You know with the fibromyalgia we want our body to do what our energy level should be and not what it is. That is so frustrating. Listen to your body...and GIVE in to it. Allow yourself to slow down. Don't punish yourself for the "fibro-fog". I hope I have helped in some way. Just know that somebody really does understand what you are going through. Take care.
Barb
re: depression
by bambi - 2007-03-28 11:03:20
My Dad had fibromyalgia, and it was before it was recognized as a very real and devastating disease. How he suffered! My heart goes out to you! I have suffered bouts of depression though, so here are a few thoughts I have on that. First, and foremost, when you feel physically lousy, depression goes hand in hand with it. You feel alone and isolated because many people go merrily through their days feeling pretty good! But- everybody eventually has their time sooner or later, and that is why we must be there to support each other! When I was suddenly widowed at 38, with 3 children to raise, I sank into a deep depression. My "friends" scattered like rats from a sinking ship! I have to say everyone abandoned me except God. I know that sounds simplistic, but it is the utter truth. That alone was amazing enough to see me through. What it did teach me was, compassion, and I sincerely mean it when I say I will pray for you and will be a listening ear. I hope TODAY will be a good one for you! Bambi
I'm not the only one - thanks!
by M_Fox - 2007-03-29 03:03:31
I'm glad I'm not the only one who's been through this, so that I can benefit from your experiences, but I'm truly sorry that anyone else has gone through this. Thank you so much for replying.
Bambi - I can't imagine being widowed at such a young age! (I'm 37) I've got a wonderful hubby...I think it's easy to take everything for granted when all is well and 'normal'.
I've been taking it easy, physically, not doing more than I think is prudent. I won't be pulling weeds in the rose garden like I did after one of my other (female problems) surgery! Alleviating physical pain/discomfort has helped (Vicodin and ice packs - think the ice packs have actually been of the most help).
Yesterday and today I did notice that I'm having tingling in my feet when I get up in the am, just like I did when I first was dx with the fibromyalgia, so I wonder if maybe the proper bloodflow is working to revers some of the fibro? Maybe at least this will help me to deal with the fibro more easily...
I see my EP tomorrow, and my cardiologist on Tuesday, then I'll schedule an appointment with my psychiatrist. I think that will be enough time since the surgery that we can consider changing the meds. I have been wondering if the meds haven't been working right since my heart rate had been so slow (in low 30's as they wheeled me into surgery).
Whew - I've really rambled. Thanks for being here.
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depression
by patriciapeter - 2007-03-28 07:03:59
hi, I am so sorry you are feeling so badly but it will get better. I have suffered from depression for more than 25 yrs and I found after the PM surgery I went into a greater depression too. It is not uncommon to get depressed after a surgery of any sort and with your history it seems that you were set up to become so, esp. with fibromyalgia. I think you have to give yourself permission to feel badly and I think you need to call your physcologist and see them sooner rather thatn later, maybe your meds need to be adjusted? I'm glad the PM has helped clear your head some that is a good sign. I hope you start to feel better soon, let us know. I hope this helps. take care.
Pat