Home | Health | 8 Side Effects Of Antidepressants

8 side effects of antidepressants

8 side effects of antidepressants

Antidepressants are often a key part of a treatment plan for managing mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. They work by increasing the levels of certain brain chemicals and helping improve mood. However, like any treatment option, antidepressants also come with a few side effects. To help one make an informed decision when undergoing treatment involving the use of antidepressants, here are some of the common side effects one should know:

1. Serotonin syndrome
This side effect is associated with certain types of antidepressants that can affect the serotonin levels in the body and cause imbalances. So, here, one may have excessive levels of serotonin. This is called serotonin syndrome. Although rare, this is a serious side effect that can lead to nausea, diarrhea, agitation, frequent bouts of frustration, high body temperature, shivering, and sweating. One may also experience twitching, headaches, tremors, muscle spasms, hyper-responsive reflexes, confusion, dilated pupils, delirium, rapid heartbeats, hallucinations, unexplained heart issues, and high blood pressure. Among the rarer and more serious symptoms of this condition are coma, convulsions, and recurring arrhythmia. This syndrome tends to have varying effects based on factors such as the person’s age, overall health, level of physical activity, and the presence of underlying health conditions.

2. Withdrawal symptoms
Antidepressants can help in the management of mental health disorders, but if one decides to stop taking them cold turkey. Doing so can lead to strong withdrawal symptoms like nightmares, vivid dreams, abdominal pain, anxiety, dizziness, sudden electric shock-like impulses in the body, flu-like symptoms, and high temperature. So, one should work with a doctor and slowly wean off antidepressants if the doctor recommends it. This can help one prevent severe withdrawal symptoms.

3. Diabetes
Antidepressants can affect blood sugar levels. Long-term use of antidepressants has been linked to a higher risk of diabetes. Nevertheless, the direct association between antidepressants and diabetes is yet to be established. Certain types of antidepressants can lower blood glucose, while others can spike. One should consult a doctor to understand the risks of this treatment option to make an informed decision.

4. Gastrointestinal bleeding
A certain type of antidepressant can lead to bleeding and blood loss in the gastrointestinal system, including the intestines and the stomach. This is a rare side effect. Those with a history of abnormal bleeding are at a higher risk of experiencing this side effect when taking antidepressants. Further, those over 80 years old may be more likely to experience GI bleeding. So, one should discuss their complete medical history with a doctor to see if they are at risk of experiencing bleeding and blood loss.

5. Anticholinergic effects
Certain antidepressants block the effects of acetylcholine—a substance responsible for transmitting messages in the nervous system. This can lead to unintended effects called anticholinergic or antimuscarinic effects, like dry mouth, confusion and agitation, drowsiness, blurred vision, constipation, urination issues, tooth decay, hallucinations, hot and dry skin, increased blood pressure in the eye, decreased sweating, low blood pressure, nausea, and rapid heartbeat. This is not common for all types of antidepressants, so one should consult a doctor if they experience any of these unwanted effects and wish to switch to a new type of treatment.

6. Low blood sodium
Antidepressants can block a hormone that helps regulate blood sodium levels. This results in a build-up of fluid inside the cells. Abnormally low blood sodium can cause problems like headaches and confusion. The drop in sodium levels is medically known as hyponatremia. This is more common in older adults and can begin to develop 2 to 4 weeks after starting with antidepressant usage. One can keep an eye out for signs of hyponatremia like nausea, drowsiness, vomiting, fatigue, crankiness, restlessness, headaches, seizures, muscle spasms, weakness, and cramps. Here, upon noticing the signs, it is important to consult a doctor to prevent further complications.

7. Insomnia
Antidepressants can often cause insomnia—a condition that makes it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. Antidepressants can activate certain hormones and chemicals within the brain and disrupt sleep activity. One may also experience hyperarousal, hyperactivity, restlessness, and impulsivity, which make it all the more difficult to fall asleep. This side effect can be managed with lifestyle changes and other treatment options. Often, relaxation techniques like meditation and mindfulness-based exercises are recommended to help release sleep hormones and fall asleep quicker. These exercises also help in improving sleep quality over time.

8. Fatigue and drowsiness
The lack of sleep, existing symptoms of mental health conditions, and the sedative effects of certain antidepressants can contribute to a feeling of extreme exhaustion. It is not uncommon for those on antidepressants to nod off in the middle of a conversation or in the middle of watching a movie. Also, they may experience a lack of energy, which interferes with their ability to carry out daily tasks such as climbing a flight of stairs or walking a few paces. This is why one may want to ensure they have a bit of time away from work when starting with antidepressants. This can make it easier to adapt to the change in energy levels and wakefulness.

So, one should discuss all the benefits and risks of available treatment options with a doctor to make an informed decision.

Recent Topics

9 Simple Steps to Create a Lush Green Lawn

9 Simple Steps to Create a Lush Green Lawn

The grass can be greener where you want it to be! Learning to take care of your lawn appropriately and maintaining it can help you create a lusher, greener yard for hosting cookouts, picnics, barbecues, or a relaxing yard for you and your loved ones. You can take some quick, easy steps to avoid faded or dead patches and create the lawn of your dreams. Check out nine ways to maintain a green lawn. Test the soil To create a vibrant green yard, you must start by caring for the most critical factor – the soil. Since grass needs nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus to thrive, it is important to ensure your soil is enriched with them. To ensure the best grass growth, it is also important to have a soil pH level of 5.5 to 6.5. Using a home soil test kit or hiring an agency can help you take the guesswork out of soil profiling. These tests usually cost around $20 and are the foundation of a beautiful, well-nourished lawn. Aerate the lawn If your lawn is used to a lot of walking and trundling by your children or pets, it may be wise to aerate it before planting any grass.
12 Smoothies to Manage Arthritis and Relieve Joint Pain

12 Smoothies to Manage Arthritis and Relieve Joint Pain

Arthritis is characterized by swelling or tenderness of the joints. It affects over 50 million people in the country. The main symptoms of arthritis are joint pain and stiffness, which tend to worsen with age. It may be inherited or caused by immune problems or metabolic conditions like gout. Making changes in daily meal plans can help manage arthritis symptoms. One of the easiest ways to introduce inflammation-relieving foods into one’s life is with delicious smoothies. Try these twelve arthritis-friendly smoothies at home to alleviate joint pain. Pineapple and turmeric smoothie Blend a quarter of a pineapple with water, orange, turmeric, lemon zest, mango, ginger, carrot, and salt. This delicious yellow smoothie is rich in antioxidants from pineapple, orange, and turmeric, which can reduce oxidative stress in the body. The main active component of turmeric, curcumin, inhibits COX-2, the enzyme that causes joint pain and inflammation, helping reduce symptoms of arthritis. The pineapple, orange, and mango add vitamin C to the smoothie, which also helps fight inflammation. Pineapple also contains the enzyme bromelain, which can help reduce arthritic pain. Kiwi and kale green smoothie Blend two kiwis with a bunch of kale, one mango, one orange, and some water to create a quick and easy green smoothie.
10 types of foods to avoid to manage multiple sclerosis

10 types of foods to avoid to manage multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the central nervous system. It causes damage to the myelin sheath, which is a covering that protects the nerve fibers, and leads to several debilitating symptoms. It is a complex health disorder without any cure and its exact cause is unknown. However, lifestyle changes such as eating mindfully may help manage the condition. Certain types of foods worsen the symptoms and should be avoided. Saturated fats Saturated fats are mostly found in animal-based products and by-products. Additionally, they are present in certain types of oils. Saturated fats increase inflammation levels in the body as these raise the level of LDL or bad cholesterol. This increases the risk of heart disorders, which most people with multiple sclerosis are highly prone to have. So, it is best to avoid foods with saturated fats, such as: Red meat Full-fat dairy Butter Processed snacks, such as cakes, cookies, and chips Palm oil Coconut oil Trans fats Another group of foods to avoid to manage multiple sclerosis is those containing trans fats. Just like saturated fats, trans fats also increase the level of inflammation in the body. Trans fats are known to increase inflammation levels within blood vessels.
7 early and noticeable signs of Parkinsons disease

7 early and noticeable signs of Parkinsons disease

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder primarily affecting the nerves communicating signals from the brain. An intricate network of nerves runs throughout the body carrying electrical impulses and signals to control a specific part or function. Parkinson’s disrupts these communication channels, making it difficult to control automatic reflexes and movements. It is only possible to manage Parkinson’s with early diagnosis as the disease has no cure. Tremors One of the first signs of developing Parkinson’s is tremors. People might experience different intensities of this motor function, but often, resting tremors are the first indicators of the neurological disorder. Resting tremors develop when the body is active and subside when the body is at rest. For example, one might not notice the tremors while using the hand actively. But when the hand is in a rested position, these tremors develop abruptly and are more noticeable while walking or sitting. Tremors that get worse with time start to interfere with regular activities like writing or shaving, among other actions that require fine gross motor skills. The uncontrolled shaking starts with just the thumb or one of the fingers, usually affecting one hand. However, the intensity of these tremors varies depending on how quickly the condition progresses.

Most Popular

Overactive Bladder – Management Options, Prevention, and Causes
01

Overactive Bladder – Management Options, Prevention, and Causes

An overactive bladder (OAB) results in frequent, unexpected urges to urinate. When one is dealing with an overactive bladder, they can experience frequent urges during the day and at night, along with incontinence. However, simple changes, such as better food choices, timed voiding, and bladder-holding techniques utilizing the pelvic floor muscles, can help one manage the symptoms of an overactive bladder. Here are a few things one should know when affected by OAB: Signs One may experience the following symptoms: Sudden and frequent urge to urinate Accidental urination right after experiencing an urge to urinate (urgency incontinence) Frequent urination, typically two or more times every few hours Need to go to the washroom more than two times every night (nocturia) Even if one can urinate normally when dealing with an overactive bladder, symptoms like unexpected frequent urination and nighttime urination can disrupt daily routine and cause discomfort. Doctors may refer the patient to a urologist, who focuses on illnesses and conditions of the reproductive system and urinary tract. One should consult a doctor as soon as they notice any of the signs. Overactive bladder is common in older adults, but some women can develop the issue at about 45. Ways to manage an overactive bladder People with overactive bladder may respond to a variety of therapies.
Read More

© 2024 EntryNotes.com. All Rights Reserved.