Besides tiredness, depression and anxiety are common symptoms of adrenal fatigue. In fact, the list of symptoms for depression and adrenal fatigue are very similar.
If you go to a standard practitioner and recite your list of symptoms, you might receive a depression diagnosis and a prescription for antidepressants without the concept of adrenal fatigue ever coming up. Some patients may obtain minor relief when taking antidepressants, but if there are no major changes in your condition, it is possible that you may actually suffer from adrenal fatigue.
A doctor specializing in adrenal fatigue treatment with bioidentical hormone therapy could conduct specific testing for adrenal fatigue and proceed with proper treatment if that is the correct diagnosis for your symptoms. Schedule a consultation to learn more about antidepressants helping with adrenal fatigue.
There is some evidence that long-term antidepressant use can contribute to the development of adrenal fatigue. Antidepressants are known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which include well-known brands such as Paxil and Prozac, work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. This neurotransmitter blocks serotonin reabsorption, allowing more serotonin to remain.
However, higher serotonin levels cause the adrenal glands to produce more cortisol — the stress hormone — and adrenaline. The constant state of high serotonin forces the adrenal glands to work overtime, which results in the body’s cortisol levels remaining elevated while adrenaline levels decline. Eventually, adrenal fatigue may occur.
As with all medications, antidepressants helping with adrenal fatigue may cause side effects in some patients. Common antidepressant side effects include:
Antidepressant use can also result in fatigue. Patients using blood thinners, including aspirin, may find the combination of blood thinners and antidepressants can cause excessive bleeding after experiencing any type of wound.
Patients in Connecticut should not just stop taking antidepressants, even if they suspect the drugs are leading to adrenal fatigue. Instead, they should consult with their doctor about gradually lowering their dosage or tapering off the medication. Completely quitting antidepressants helping with adrenal fatigue may not lead only to depression recurrence, but to other serious physical symptoms. This includes a flu-like state and unusual sensations.
For those diagnosed with adrenal fatigue who are currently on antidepressants, a doctor could help begin the new therapy while overseeing the weaning off of the antidepressants. It may take a couple of months before a patient is able to completely stop using antidepressant medications.
If you suspect your depressive symptoms may actually indicate adrenal failure, Dr. Edward Jacobson may be able to help you address it. He is available for consultations at his home office in Connecticut. Call today to schedule an appointment about antidepressants helping with adrenal fatigue.