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Dr. Andrew Rynne

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What Causes Headaches And Bloating After Lithim Intake?

I Just started 9 days ago on 2 pills a night of lithium (320 mg) I'm quite Nervous and Scared about how I'm feeling.... Bad Bad Headaches, bloading( I am drinking tons of water) and Still suffering, Feeling no different than I started. Two days ago on Friday I took a blood test to see level. Waiting for results. What should is Doctor looking for and what should I expect? I have suffered for many years and always tried anti`depressants.....which Obviously haven't worked.I was involved in an accident (a drunk driver rear ended myself and three friends going over 106 mph) Can chronic neck and back pain spin me into an episode? Ive been to chiro for two years. I'm beyond living in pain every other week non-stop!
Fri, 14 Feb 2014
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Psychiatrist,  's  Response
Hello and welcome to Healthcare Magic. Thanks for your query.

I understand that you ar quite worried and distressed about your symptoms like headache and bloating after taking Lithium. The symptoms that you have mentioned are likely to be side effects of Lithium. These are relatively common side effects and usually tend to resolve within a few weeks.

Regarding the Lithium level blood tests, these tests are done routinely in order to check if the medication is at the right dosage. They may be done more frequently in the first few weeks and help in adjusting the dosage of Lithium to a safe and effective level.

Chronic pain or physical suffering or stress can be possible factors for triggerring an episode and it is important that you try and remain stress-free and relaxed.

Wish you all the best.

Regards,
Dr. Jonas Sundarakumar
Consultant Psychiatrist
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What Causes Headaches And Bloating After Lithim Intake?

Hello and welcome to Healthcare Magic. Thanks for your query. I understand that you ar quite worried and distressed about your symptoms like headache and bloating after taking Lithium. The symptoms that you have mentioned are likely to be side effects of Lithium. These are relatively common side effects and usually tend to resolve within a few weeks. Regarding the Lithium level blood tests, these tests are done routinely in order to check if the medication is at the right dosage. They may be done more frequently in the first few weeks and help in adjusting the dosage of Lithium to a safe and effective level. Chronic pain or physical suffering or stress can be possible factors for triggerring an episode and it is important that you try and remain stress-free and relaxed. Wish you all the best. Regards, Dr. Jonas Sundarakumar Consultant Psychiatrist