Understanding Sexual Side Effects of Antidepressants and Antipsychotics
Regarding the impact of antidepressant dosage and antipsychotic medications on decreased libido? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask if the side effects of low libido and difficulty achieving orgasm caused by taking antidepressants and antipsychotic medications will resolve if I st...
Dr. Cai Yunlin reply Psychiatry
Hello, in general, sexual dysfunction related to antidepressants and antipsychotic medications is usually reversible. However, there are several factors (such as physiological diseases, mental disorders, substance abuse, and other prescribed medications) that may be associated wi...[Read More] Understanding Sexual Side Effects of Antidepressants and Antipsychotics
Understanding Sleep Disorders: From Sleepwalking to Aggressive Behavior
Sleepwalking, sleep inertia, or narcolepsy? My husband works long hours, so he only gets 4 to 6 hours of sleep. However, he never hears the alarm even when it's set to the maximum volume. When I try to wake him, he often reacts aggressively or exhibits violent behavior, such...
Dr. Cai Yunlin reply Psychiatry
Hello, you mentioned that there are aspects of your family member's condition that require further clarification regarding medical history, symptom presentation, and lifestyle. It's difficult to assess the actual behavior based solely on the description provided. Since ...[Read More] Understanding Sleep Disorders: From Sleepwalking to Aggressive Behavior
Why Does My Husband Scratch His Head While Sleeping?
Sleeping and scratching the head? Hello doctor, my husband tends to scratch his head vigorously while sleeping at night. He scratches his head two to three times throughout the night, every few hours. When he wakes up in the morning, I ask him if his scalp itches, if he was dream...
Dr. Cai Yunlin reply Psychiatry
Hello, it is not easy to assess the actual behavior based solely on the description. Clinically, some sleep disorders may be associated with paroxysmal limb movements, but it is essential to first rule out any possible physical conditions. If your family member's situation i...[Read More] Why Does My Husband Scratch His Head While Sleeping?
Struggling with Insomnia After Stopping Lorazepam: Seeking Guidance
I don't know how to use the medication? I previously took Lorazepam for over three months, and stopping the medication has caused me to experience insomnia for over a year now (I stopped after three weeks, and I'm not sure if that was too fast). My symptoms of autonomic...
Dr. Cai Yunlin reply Psychiatry
Hello, if sleep aids are suddenly discontinued after being taken for a period of time, it may lead to a worsening of insomnia symptoms, a phenomenon known as rebound insomnia. Therefore, tapering off sleep medications is usually done gradually. It is advisable for you to return t...[Read More] Struggling with Insomnia After Stopping Lorazepam: Seeking Guidance
Understanding Rapid Weight Loss and Anxiety: A Mental Health Perspective
Rapid weight loss within a month? Hello Doctor, I am a person who tends to overthink and easily feels anxious and tense. In May, I visited a hospital due to gastrointestinal issues and was diagnosed with gastritis. After that, I experienced tinnitus and went to an ENT clinic for ...
Dr. Cai Yunlin reply Psychiatry
Hello, high anxiety regarding health or bodily symptoms can easily cause significant disruption in daily life. It is recommended that you visit a psychosomatic medicine clinic for evaluation to further clarify the diagnosis and discuss treatment options (both pharmacological and ...[Read More] Understanding Rapid Weight Loss and Anxiety: A Mental Health Perspective
Understanding OCD: Managing Intrusive Thoughts and Anxiety
Suspected Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Can obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) lead to intrusive thoughts and irrational thinking? I am very afraid that the irrational thoughts associated with OCD will come true. What should I do when I start to have these thoughts? It bec...
Dr. Cai Yunlin reply Psychiatry
Hello, obsessive thinking is one of the main symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Treatment for OCD includes both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy). It is recommended that you seek an evaluation at a psychosomati...[Read More] Understanding OCD: Managing Intrusive Thoughts and Anxiety
Managing Medication Side Effects: Sleep Issues and Alternatives in Psychiatry
Adverse drug effects Hello Doctor, Last week I visited a doctor due to some sleep disturbances (difficulty falling asleep, frequent dreaming, and waking up still feeling tired). I also suspected that I might have some depression issues. The doctor prescribed Bupropion to be tak...
Dr. Cai Yunlin reply Psychiatry
Hello, your condition allows for the consideration of reducing the medication dosage by half. If this is not suitable, please return for a follow-up appointment to discuss with your physician whether to switch medications or explore other options. Wishing you all the best.[Read More] Managing Medication Side Effects: Sleep Issues and Alternatives in Psychiatry
Understanding Serotonin Withdrawal: Muscle Tension and Sensitivity Issues
Withdrawal from antidepressants can lead to involuntary muscle tension? Hello, I stopped taking Sertraline around June 30, and since then, my muscles have been constantly tense, almost all day long. My toes feel strained to the point of injury, and I experience palpitations nearl...
Dr. Cai Yunlin reply Psychiatry
Hello, the withdrawal symptoms from antidepressants are related to factors such as the drug's half-life, dosage, duration of treatment, and the method of discontinuation. Most symptoms are not severe, but the duration of symptoms can vary significantly due to individual diff...[Read More] Understanding Serotonin Withdrawal: Muscle Tension and Sensitivity Issues
Understanding Sleep Disruptions: Causes and Solutions for Better Rest
Sleep disruption Hello, doctor. For the past 4 to 6 months, I have been waking up in the middle of the night almost every day (going to bed at 11 PM and waking up at 2 or 3 AM). Sometimes I can fall back asleep, but other times I become too concerned and find it difficult to do s...
Dr. Cai Yunlin reply Psychiatry
Hello, I suggest that you keep a simple record of your sleep patterns and daytime activities for two weeks. This will help you identify any daily habits and behaviors that may be affecting your sleep. Common recommendations include the following: 1. Regardless of how well you sl...[Read More] Understanding Sleep Disruptions: Causes and Solutions for Better Rest
Understanding Insomnia and Medication Withdrawal in Mental Health
Insomnia and issues related to withdrawal from medication? Hello, Dr. Tsai! This February, I suddenly realized that I am already 45 years old. Although I am married, I have not had children, which makes me anxious and unable to sleep. Additionally, I am worried about my future be...
Dr. Cai Yunlin reply Psychiatry
Hello, Anxinping and Xinghuantuo belong to the benzodiazepine class and sedative-type antidepressants, respectively. They are commonly used in clinical practice to address insomnia issues. Anxinping generally has good safety profiles. When tapering off sleep medications, it is ad...[Read More] Understanding Insomnia and Medication Withdrawal in Mental Health
Is Sleeping Four Hours Enough? Understanding Your Sleep Patterns
Waking up after only four hours of sleep, or occasionally needing two separate four-hour sleep periods? Hello, I am currently studying at a graduate school abroad, and my schedule is relatively flexible. I do not have a habit of taking naps, and I usually go to sleep whenever I f...
Dr. Cai Yunlin reply Psychiatry
Establishing a regular sleep-wake schedule is a good habit for individuals with sleep disturbances. The sleep interruptions you mentioned, if they do not affect daytime alertness, are likely not a major concern. It would be advisable to continue monitoring changes in your sleep p...[Read More] Is Sleeping Four Hours Enough? Understanding Your Sleep Patterns
Understanding Anxiety and Depression: When Worry Turns Into Panic
I'm not sure what's wrong? Hello, doctor. I originally had anxiety disorder, constantly worrying about various things and unable to let go of my emotions. Recently, due to excessive anxiety over certain matters, I have developed symptoms of depression. For the past week...
Dr. Cai Yunlin reply Psychiatry
Panic is a more sudden and severe form of anxiety attack. Anxiety disorders can last for more than a week or even longer, but if it is very distressing, it is advisable to seek medical attention.[Read More] Understanding Anxiety and Depression: When Worry Turns Into Panic
Do You Struggle with Attention Issues? Understanding ADHD Symptoms and Solutions
It seems like there may be an attention deficit issue? Hello, doctor. I am currently 23 years old and feel that I have been experiencing attention deficit issues. Although I can concentrate during class and listen to the teacher (when the class is boring, I might stretch or shake...
Dr. Cai Yunlin reply Psychiatry
Procrastination and lack of concentration can be symptoms of a disorder, but a proper diagnosis can only be made by a healthcare professional. It is advisable to seek medical attention for an accurate assessment.[Read More] Do You Struggle with Attention Issues? Understanding ADHD Symptoms and Solutions
Is Struggling to Get Up in the Morning a Sleep Disorder or Just Laziness?
Waking up in the morning but being unable to get out of bed could indicate a sleep issue? Hello, doctor. I have been going to bed around 2-3 AM for a long time. Before sleeping, I usually watch videos on my phone for about 20-30 minutes. The biggest problem is that when I don...
Dr. Cai Yunlin reply Psychiatry
It is still advisable to adjust your schedule and try to go to bed before 11 PM to see if there is a significant difference in your wake-up time, which can help determine if there is a sleep issue. Additionally, sleeping at the right time will yield better results.[Read More] Is Struggling to Get Up in the Morning a Sleep Disorder or Just Laziness?
Managing Sleep Issues: Understanding Anxiety and Medication Effects
Sleep issues Last week, I couldn't sleep and started using sleeping pills (a medication that starts with 'Z'). Later, I began to feel anxious about going to bed, and my heart would race, so I took an anti-anxiety medication. After taking one, my mood improved signi...
Dr. Cai Yunlin reply Psychiatry
Hello, due to the varying effects of different medications (such as half-life, onset of action, etc.), it is advisable to discuss your condition and possible solutions further with your physician. Wishing you all the best.[Read More] Managing Sleep Issues: Understanding Anxiety and Medication Effects
Understanding Speech Disorders and Emotional Issues in Aging Mothers
Maternal speech disorders and emotional issues? Two years ago, my mother was perfectly fine in terms of verbal expression and emotional responses. She was a strong woman in her workplace, articulate and confident. However, after a major client of her company went bankrupt, she se...
Dr. Cai Yunlin reply Psychiatry
Hello, it seems that your mother has experienced significant stress, and there have been noticeable changes in her personality and verbal expression. It may be helpful to discuss this with her neurologist to see if a referral to a psychosomatic specialist or other assistance is a...[Read More] Understanding Speech Disorders and Emotional Issues in Aging Mothers
Understanding Sleep Issues: Anxiety, Medication, and Self-Management
Sleep issues A few days ago, I consulted a doctor about my sleep issues. I feel anxious before and during sleep, so the doctor prescribed me an anti-anxiety medication called aparline and a sleeping pill. He advised me to take them before bed, but I wanted to try to sleep on my o...
Dr. Cai Yunlin reply Psychiatry
Hello, anxiety related to insomnia can indeed extend to bedtime. It is advisable to discuss your situation and potential solutions with your healthcare provider. Wishing you all the best.[Read More] Understanding Sleep Issues: Anxiety, Medication, and Self-Management
Understanding OCD: Coping with Anxiety and Intrusive Thoughts
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)? Hello, Doctor. I have anxiety disorder and panic disorder, and I often worry about various things without any specific reason. Once I finish worrying about one thing, I move on to the next. Recently, I don't know if it's because my m...
Dr. Cai Yunlin reply Psychiatry
Hello, the repetitive thoughts you mentioned may be related to obsessive thinking and might require further evaluation. However, these psychosomatic symptoms seem to be significantly affecting your well-being. I recommend that you seek prompt consultation with a psychosomatic med...[Read More] Understanding OCD: Coping with Anxiety and Intrusive Thoughts
Finding rTMS Treatment Clinics in Tainan: A Guide for Patients
Are there any medical clinics or facilities in Tainan that offer rTMS treatment? I have searched online multiple times for information related to rTMS treatment, but I cannot find any clinics in Tainan that offer this service. I learned that the Caotun Rehabilitation Hospital, wh...
Dr. Cai Yunlin reply Psychiatry
Hello, it is recommended to consult with Cheng Kung University Hospital. Wishing you success.[Read More] Finding rTMS Treatment Clinics in Tainan: A Guide for Patients
Understanding Compulsive Lying: When to Seek Psychiatric Help
Habitual fabrication Hello, doctor. I recently discovered that my boyfriend has a tendency to lie. The lies include claims that he used to be a public speaker, that he was wealthy in the past, and that he is a chef, among other things, which he tells to his friends in online game...
Dr. Cai Yunlin reply Psychiatry
Hello, regarding your boyfriend's condition, it may be necessary to evaluate and further understand whether it is a medical issue. You might consider discussing your concerns with him and collaboratively exploring ways to seek assistance. Wishing you all the best.[Read More] Understanding Compulsive Lying: When to Seek Psychiatric Help