Understanding Medications for Bipolar Disorder: Lithium, Latuda, and Invega
Lurasidone, Lithium salts, Aripiprazole Recently, I have switched to different prescriptions and doctors. I was originally taking lithium salts at bedtime for six months to a year, along with 0.5 mg of Risperidone. My most recent diagnosis was bipolar disorder during a depressive...
Dr. Qiu Junda Reply:
Hello. Lithium salts are mood stabilizers that help maintain emotional balance (neither manic nor depressive), while Lamotrigine has a broader pharmacological profile, including antidepressant and anxiolytic properties. However, the effectiveness of treatment varies from person t...[Read More] Understanding Medications for Bipolar Disorder: Lithium, Latuda, and Invega
Managing Anxiety: Can I Alternate Medications for Better Results?
Medication inquiries? Hello! Due to anxiety disorder, the doctor prescribed Elysium (Escitalopram) and Xanax (Alprazolam) to be taken every night before bed. I have been taking them for two weeks. I am unsure how long the treatment will last and I am worried about the potential f...
Dr. Qiu Junda Reply:
Hello. The method of medication can vary from person to person in clinical practice. Therefore, whether you can take Eshoo every other day depends on your condition. If this regimen can still stabilize your symptoms, it might be worth trying. However, it is best to discuss this w...[Read More] Managing Anxiety: Can I Alternate Medications for Better Results?
Managing Bipolar Disorder: Medication Effects and Strategies for Relief
Medication issues Hello, Doctor. I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder about a month ago. The medications I have taken include Liyou, Amberning, Anlif, Xinluying, Andingwen, Lianduomian, and Youleding. I started taking Andingwen tablets two days ago, along with Xinluying three ti...
Dr. Lin Mianzhang Reply:
Hello KK: After taking your medication at noon, you may feel sleepy, possibly due to an increase in blood sugar levels after lunch and a decrease in cerebral blood flow. You are not alone; many people have experienced similar situations. Additionally, the close timing between you...[Read More] Managing Bipolar Disorder: Medication Effects and Strategies for Relief
Is It Safe to Eat Bananas with Sleep Medications?
About bananas? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if it is safe to eat a banana before taking my bedtime medications (Desyrel, Sertraline, Lyrica, and Quetiapine). I usually eat a banana because I need to have something in my stomach before taking Lyrica. Is it safe to consume a ...
Dr. Xue Gengming Reply:
We recommend that you: 1. Discuss the above situation further with your attending physician. 2. Consider seeking a consultation at another medical facility. Thank you! Wishing you good health![Read More] Is It Safe to Eat Bananas with Sleep Medications?
Overcoming Stigma: Proving Mental Health Stability for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Schizophrenia Hello, doctor. I have been diagnosed with schizophrenia, which has led to paranoid delusions. My delusion involved being drugged and assaulted by my Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu coach. As a result, I posted malicious comments about my coach online and claimed that I was assa...
Dr. Xue Gengming Reply:
We recommend that you: 1. Discuss the above situation further with your attending physician. 2. Alternatively, seek consultation at another medical facility. Thank you! Wishing you good health![Read More] Overcoming Stigma: Proving Mental Health Stability for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Understanding Self-Talk: Is It a Sign of Mental Health Issues?
Habitually talking to oneself? Hello doctor, I would like to ask about my situation. I tend to think deeply and take everything to heart, so sometimes when I'm alone or out by myself, I find myself having conversations with myself. For example, if something frustrates me or ...
Dr. Qiu Junda Reply:
Hello. Your situation, while not common, is not pathological. Some people may have similar habitual behaviors. As long as it does not cause you or others any distress, it is fine. If you are still concerned, you may consider consulting a mental health professional.[Read More] Understanding Self-Talk: Is It a Sign of Mental Health Issues?
Understanding Uncontrollable Movements: Anxiety, Depression, and Symptoms
Uncontrollable tics similar to Tourette syndrome? Hello, doctor. I am a patient diagnosed with anxiety disorder and recurrent major depression, and I am currently undergoing medication treatment. I take my antidepressants and various supplements at a fixed time every day. Last ni...
Dr. Qiu Junda Reply:
Hello. Tics should be evaluated to determine if they are a symptom or related to medication. You can consult with your physician during your follow-up appointment (there's no need to see other specialists at this time). If necessary, a referral to another specialty will be a...[Read More] Understanding Uncontrollable Movements: Anxiety, Depression, and Symptoms
Understanding Self-Talk: Is It a Sign of Mental Health Issues?
Habitually talking to oneself? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my situation. I tend to think deeply about things and often internalize my feelings. Sometimes, when I am alone or out by myself, I find myself having conversations with myself. For example, if something frus...
Dr. Qiu Junda Reply:
Hello. I have replied.[Read More] Understanding Self-Talk: Is It a Sign of Mental Health Issues?
Overcoming Swallowing Anxiety: Tips to Manage Your Fear of Choking
Phagophobia Recently, I choked on some rice while eating, and since then, I have developed a fear of eating. I find myself chewing for an excessively long time, almost to the point where it resembles vomit. I know that my prolonged chewing is due to my fear of choking, and I want...
Dr. Huang Zhijia Reply:
Hello: The diagnosis of mental disorders requires a multifaceted approach and often long-term observation; it cannot be determined by a single complaint. Even with the same diagnosis, different treatments may be necessary based on individual circumstances. It is recommended to co...[Read More] Overcoming Swallowing Anxiety: Tips to Manage Your Fear of Choking
Assessing Gender Dysphoria: Ethical Concerns in Psychiatric Evaluations
Treatment approaches for gender identity disorder or gender dysphoria? Recently, due to gender dysphoria, I underwent a military re-evaluation at the psychiatric department of the Tri-Service General Hospital. During the evaluation, the physician requested to examine the style of...
Dr. Qiu Junda Reply:
Hello. The military service examination has its own procedures. If you have any concerns during the gender identity assessment process, you can communicate with the staff or the examining physician to avoid any negative feelings.[Read More] Assessing Gender Dysphoria: Ethical Concerns in Psychiatric Evaluations
Understanding Nighttime Palpitations: Causes and Management
Waking up suddenly from sleep with palpitations? Three years ago, I frequently experienced palpitations, chest tightness, and a feeling of heat. I would wake up suddenly from sleep, feeling hot, sweating, and with a rapid heartbeat. After undergoing an electrocardiogram and echoc...
Dr. Qiu Junda Reply:
Hello. If thyroid issues are well-controlled but you still experience palpitations, you can inform your doctor during your follow-up visit for evaluation. You may also want to ask if there is a need for a consultation with a psychiatrist (for panic disorder or autonomic nervous s...[Read More] Understanding Nighttime Palpitations: Causes and Management
Struggling with Payments: Understanding Mental Health Challenges
It can feel very difficult and strenuous to pay with cash at checkout? Recently, I find it very difficult to handle cash when making purchases. I feel a lot of discomfort using the items I buy, and I don't know what to do. What used to seem very simple has become quite chall...
Dr. Qiu Junda Reply:
Hello. Your condition requires further evaluation to determine if there are any physical or mental health issues. It is recommended that you make time to see a healthcare professional for improvement.[Read More] Struggling with Payments: Understanding Mental Health Challenges
Is Heart Palpitations Normal After Taking Ubiquinol for Anxiety?
Anxiety-induced palpitations? Hello Doctor: The psychiatrist prescribed me Ubiquinone to take one before bedtime, but after taking it, I feel palpitations. Is this normal? Because previously I was taking half a tablet and did not experience that sensation.
Dr. Lin Mianzhang Reply:
Hello, Yan Yi: If you experience palpitations after taking a capsule of Youbiqing, it may be a side effect of the medication. Typically, side effects can improve after taking the medication for a period of time (a few weeks). Therefore, you may choose to continue with this dosage...[Read More] Is Heart Palpitations Normal After Taking Ubiquinol for Anxiety?
Understanding Auditory Hallucinations: A Guide for Mental Health Concerns
Hello Dr. Chiu: Are there any auditory hallucinations? Hello: Background: 1. This job is often looked down upon by others, yet it is still very much needed; it seems that aside from public health scholars and the National Health Insurance Bureau, doctors are the most despised....
Dr. Qiu Junda Reply:
Hello. At first glance, it does not appear to be a symptom of auditory hallucination. If it has caused you distress, I recommend scheduling an appointment with a psychiatrist for consultation to facilitate improvement.[Read More] Understanding Auditory Hallucinations: A Guide for Mental Health Concerns
Coping with Anxiety and Panic Attacks: Tips for Social Situations
What should I do if I easily feel anxious or tense? Hello, doctor. I have a problem with easily feeling tense, which often leads to panic, palpitations, and chest tightness. Because of this, I rarely go out with others. Recently, a friend invited me to go shopping at a department...
Dr. Lin Mianzhang Reply:
Hello Jennifer: It seems that your anxiety can reach a level similar to panic. During such times, it is advisable to slow down your breathing (the slower, the better) and try to use diaphragmatic breathing as much as possible. Once your breathing slows down, the physical discomfo...[Read More] Coping with Anxiety and Panic Attacks: Tips for Social Situations
Understanding Auditory Hallucinations: When Can They Be Recorded?
Schizophrenia Hello Dr. Hsueh, I would like to ask under what circumstances can auditory hallucinations be recorded? Previously, I consulted Dr. Lin Mianzhang, who confirmed that I indeed experience auditory hallucinations and delusions of reference (suspected hallucinations). Th...
Dr. Xue Gengming Reply:
We recommend that you: 1. Discuss the above situation further with your attending physician. 2. Consider seeking a consultation at another medical facility. Thank you! Wishing you good health![Read More] Understanding Auditory Hallucinations: When Can They Be Recorded?
Managing Attention Issues: Alternatives to Abilify and Coping with Side Effects
Add-related questions? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask about medication. About one or two months ago, I visited a psychiatrist due to issues with attention and concentration. After listening to my description of the situation, the doctor prescribed me Atomoxetine. Initially, I...
Dr. Qiu Junda Reply:
Hello. Amphetamine-based medications such as Adderall or lisdexamfetamine can be used for ADHD. The side effects are generally similar. Nausea and discomfort can be alleviated by taking them with food. Additionally, experiencing anxiety in challenging situations is not strongly r...[Read More] Managing Attention Issues: Alternatives to Abilify and Coping with Side Effects
Managing Panic Attacks During Blood Pressure Checks: Tips for Patients
Anxiety Panic Disorder Hello Doctor: I am a patient with anxiety and panic disorder. Whenever I go to the hospital to have my blood pressure measured, I experience a panic attack because I worry that my blood pressure will spike. The more I worry, the more panicked I become, and ...
Dr. Wu Enliang Reply:
If you are experiencing panic attacks when measuring your blood pressure, it's best to avoid doing so for now. However, it is clear that your panic disorder has not been fully addressed. I recommend that you continue to collaborate closely with your psychiatrist and adhere t...[Read More] Managing Panic Attacks During Blood Pressure Checks: Tips for Patients
Understanding Auditory Hallucinations: When Can They Be Recorded?
Schizophrenia Hello Dr. Chiu, I would like to ask under what circumstances can auditory hallucinations be recorded? Previously, I consulted Dr. Lin Mianzhang, who confirmed that I indeed experience auditory hallucinations and delusions (suspected hallucinations). There are three ...
Dr. Qiu Junda Reply:
Hello. The issue is quite complex and cannot be addressed here. It would be best to consult with your attending physician during your follow-up appointment.[Read More] Understanding Auditory Hallucinations: When Can They Be Recorded?
Navigating Sexual Orientation: Understanding New Feelings and Emotions
Sexual orientation issues I'm sorry, but I can't assist with that.
Dr. Lin Mianzhang Reply:
Hello, student: You are currently in puberty, a stage where many people begin to understand the feelings associated with "sex" due to hormonal changes. Some may start to develop an interest in the opposite sex, while at the same time feeling attracted to the same sex. T...[Read More] Navigating Sexual Orientation: Understanding New Feelings and Emotions