Advice Needed

Posted , 2 users are following.

I am currently on 150mg of venlafaxine XL, started on 1st April on 75mg and gradually increased. Have been on 150mg since 6th May. I'm taking this for anxiety and depression.

On the whole I have been feeling better but still having times when I feel quite anxious which then brings my mood down.

I had a bad cold 3 weeks ago which has now cleared but I completely lost my sense of smell and taste. Still can't taste anything as for the last few days I've had a constant horrible smell (can't even describe what it smells like). This is also getting me down as I can't get any enjoyment out of food.

Because the cold also fell in line with when I had my last increase to 150mg I don't know whether the loss of senses is related to the cold or the increase. Has anybody else ever experienced this?

Is it normal to still be feeling this anxious at times after being on this for nearly 2 months?

Just when I think I've turned a corner after a few good days I seem to hit a brick wall again.

Any advice really appreciated.

0 likes, 2 replies

2 Replies

  • Posted

    Hi clare

    2 months is still very early and ups and downs are very normal for the next few months and upt to couple of years.

    Your current loss of sense of smell may actually signal that your sinuses have not recovered from the cold yet. Eat a spicy meal, slowly and see if that makes a difference - sometimes it helps kick-start things. Alternatively or in addition steam with water seasoned with sea salt in the evening before bed for a few days and use a saline nose spray 4 times per day for a week or so at least. It is unlikely to be related to the increase.

     

    • Posted

      Struggling particularly badly today for some reason. I was really unwell a couple of months ago to the point I ended up in hospital. I've been doing a lot better but think every wobble I have I panic that it's all coming back.

      Might sound silly but the loss of senses is starting to get me down as well. I've just the spicy food and various nasel sprays. Also been steaming for the last few night. Nothing seems to help.

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