does anyone else have anxiety and panic attacks?

Sara Louise · 03-20-2004, 01:46 AM

My husband and I have been "trying" for over a year now, after 6 months of trying my periods became really irregular, and I was diagnosed with PCOS. I was on the pill for 7 years before we started trying. My doctor said that I most likely would have known that I had PCOS earlier if I wasn't on the pill. I have a question about a possible symtom... about 1 1/2 years ago while I was driving, I started to black out, that led into my first panic attack. And now, over a year later, I have symtoms of anxiety, and to this day I don't drive because of my panic attacks. A while ago I read in an PCOS artical on symtoms something about having a shortage of blood to your brain that can cause you to feel "spacey". Does anyone know anything about this? I would love to hear from anyone.

bluedragonfly2000 · 03-20-2004, 02:06 AM

Hi Sara Louise, I just wanted to welcome you to the boards. There are lots of supportive people here. I suffer from anxiety. I haven't heard about the article you mentioned. It would be neat to read it. Welcome to the message board,
Mel

KitKat · 03-20-2004, 03:34 AM

I don't know much about the article you are talking about but Ihave heard some Drs think PCOS and anxiety are linked. I suffer from anxiety and really bad panic attacks, and don't drive anymore either.

Lendi · 03-20-2004, 10:55 AM

I hadn't heard of the relationship to PCOS and anxiety, but then no-one really knows that much about the causes of PCOS so it's possible. I do know that many cysters seem to have depression/anxiety as a PCOS partner. Do you have diabetes or insulin resistance? Maybe anxiety is combined with a hormonal issue. Very interesting. If you remember where/what the the article was from I would sure like to read it

Thanks for posting the info. And, lots of {{{{TTC vibes}}}} Lendi

Lendi · 03-20-2004, 11:05 AM

Here is a small article and a link if you want to read more. There is lots of PCOS info at this site.

11.2 Are depression and anxiety common in women with PCOS?

This is an area where more research is needed. It does appear that many women with PCOS suffer some physical or psychological manifestations of depression. There is some medical literature suggesting a link between diabetes and depression, and perhaps that might be extended to early stages of insulin resistance. It may be that the hormone imbalances, including hyperinsulinemia and hyperandrogenism, create a physical source for depression. Medications that help restore proper hormone ratios or antidepressants may help reduce depression and anxiety attacks.

Another possible source of depression is the effect that PCOS symptoms may have on self-esteem. Skin, hair, and weight can each cause discomfort in one's appearance that damage confidence. Infertility may also lead to frustrations with one's body and the feeling it can't do anything right, or perhaps a notion that one is being punished for some past action. Miscarriages are common in women with PCOS, and the grief associated with this type of loss can be far-reaching.

Anyone who feels she is showing signs of depression should consult her doctor as well as consider seeking emotional support. Be sure to find a doctor who is willing to listen to concerns and not dismiss this potential side effect of PCOS.

http://www.inciid.org/faq/pcos.html

patti plummer · 03-25-2004, 04:01 AM

I have heard over and over that extreme hormonal imbalances causes anxiety and depression. So cysta you are right on that the anxiety can be related. Glad you spoke up--I can totally related. sometimes I think I am losing it so you are not alone
(((HUGS)))
Patti