fizzio
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I've had problems following ECT and wouldn't have it again. It is not usually done for people with bipolar, but at the time I had it I was diagnosed with major depression, suicidal and totally unable to function. I never thought it helped me, just passed the time while waiting for the meds to work. I had 13 ECTs when I was pregnant with my first child, then 8, and 13 later on. I had only short term memory problems after the first 2 courses, but after the 3rd I had loss of long term memory of many past memories that have never come back, including the early years of my children and other precious memories. It also affected my working memory, affecting the type of work I can do now. I get overloaded with information very easily, and now can't read scientific journal articles which has prevented me from returning to research studies (I have heard this from other people doing higher degrees). I have to relearn the same information over and over unless I am using it everyday. My doctor is currently trying me on a med to help memory. I can no longer enjoy doing the complicated knitting and sewing patterns I did as I can't hold enough information and lose my place. My previous dr assured me it wouldn't cause permanent memory loss or I would have refused and he accused me of 'tying his hands' when I refused to continue. People at work know I have a poor memory but they don't know why. Not everyone has this degree of memory loss, and some drs still argue that there is no permanent damage. The thing I looked forward to when I had it was the blessed injection of what ever they give you that puts you out immediately into complete oblivion where no bad thoughts could follow. It was almost worth it for that. All we have to do is decide what to do with the time that is given to us. Gandalf, LOTR |
"MD junction is a place for us to share our experiences both good and bad it is a safe haven from the ignorant and the doubters a place to vent ask advice or just get away from it all.
