Expert: Joyce A. Anthony - 1/1/2010

Question
Several years ago, my wife was involved in an accident that has her taking pain medication. She is taking methadone, vicadin and sometimes valium. She also takes zanax for anxiety. She has terrible mood swings. She goes from sleeping alot to anger. Recently, she had a hysterectomy due to cancer. All has increased. She sleeps a little less, but she is crying almost instantly at things such as our children "giving her a had time", my coming in about 30 minutes to an hour late from work, even just doing laundry. She starts crying and then mumbling to herself. Home life has turned terrible. What can she/we do??

Answer
Larry:

It seems as though the hysterectomy has started messing with your wife's hormones.  Having this operation sends a woman into menopause, regardless of her age.  Because hormones are related to moods and your wife already has mood issues, everything has been intensified.

I believe the best thing right now is to consult with the doctor that prescribes her medication and see how the dosages can be adjusted, at least until the hormonal changes have run their course.  

Hang in there, Larry.  I believe a simple medication adjustment can make things a lot easier at home!
                  Joyce A. Anthony