Expert: Meg - 7/27/2005

Question
Hi Meg

I've been really depressed recently and I have been having dizzy spells.  I'm sure it's to do with the anti-depressants I'm taking but my psychiatrist seems to think it is my physical state.
I'm not emaciated, so I should be pretty fit hey?  My hair is falling out alot at the moment aswell.  I don't know what to think these days.  One minute I think it's my poor appetite and then I blame it on the pills and then I don't know.

I'm so confused and fed up


Answer
Hi Peggy,

I was wondering how you were doing so I am glad that you wrote.  Although, I'm sorry it is because you are having dizzy spells and not feeling well.  

While I suppose dizziness is a side effect of some anti-depressants (and sadly, I am somewhat lacking in pharmacutical knowledge and specifics about each of them), I would guess that it is probable that your spells are more likely from malnutrition.

If your hair is falling out (another sign of malnutrition) and you are restricting, then this can easily lead to dizzy spells.

As for not being emaciated, honestly I don't think anyone ever feels emaciated-AND, oftentimes it is easy to compare yourself to the ridiculous media standard.  I know most people's visual image of an anorexic is a undeveloped 13 year old who is at death's doorstep.  However, especially as we are older (and have lifes, women's bodies, etc) even when you are severely malnourished and sick-you probably won't look like that.  Plus, you (like I did-and sadly many women do) probably have a very distorted image of your body.  So, that could play into thinking this as well.

I'm sorry that you're so fed and really hope that you can get into the specialist soon.

Oh, and also if you are taking your meds but not getting the proper nutrition with them- I *think* (again-totally not my area of knowlege but I'm fairly sure that I've heard this) they don't react properly with your body anyway.

So, all the more reason to keep fighting.

I know you can do it :)

Feel free to write again and I wish you happiness and improved health.

Best,
Meg