I'm a hypochondriac

Question

Good afternoon! She came to a psychotherapist with astheno-neurotic syndrome, against the background of the discovery of a neoplasm in the brain. I am 48 years old. Many years ago, I already had health problems. Then my right side hurt a lot. I stopped eating, I was sick, I just existed. The doctors did not diagnose me. Miraculously, she became pregnant during this period. I went to the doctors all through my pregnancy and called an ambulance. It all ended after the birth of my daughter. In a moment. I didn't even realize it right away. Now this condition is repeated. Quite by accident, they found a neoplasm in the head. Benign. Neurosurgeons throw up their hands: we don't know what it is. Probably from birth (I was born 7 months old). They say that if it were dangerous, they would know this tumor by sight. And in my case, they recommend living and enjoying life, undergoing an examination once a year or two. But I'm not me. I cry all the time, I feel dizzy (it started after the MRI), weak, and so on. A bunch of symptoms I invented. I realized that the problem is in my head! I turned to a psychotherapist. I drank paxil 20 mg in the morning and seroquel 12.5 mg in the morning for five months. I have gained a lot (by 10 kg). I work online with a CBT psychologist. I've become more cheerful, and I feel better. But! I keep thinking about my sores all the time. I open my eyes and analyze how I feel. I'm very tired. I can't cure my thoughts. Tell me what to do and who else to contact! May be Ayurveda can help??

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

It’s commendable that you’ve taken steps to address your mental health and seek therapy during such a challenging time. From an Ayurvedic perspective, your symptoms could be linked to an imbalance in the mind-body connection, particularly in the Vata dosha, which governs movement and communication in the body and can become aggravated by stress and anxiety. To help manage your symptoms and promote overall well-being, consider incorporating calming practices into your daily routine.
Ayurvedic herbs such as Ashwagandha and Brahmi can be beneficial for reducing anxiety and promoting mental clarity. Ashwagandha is known for its adaptogenic properties, helping the body manage stress, while Brahmi can support cognitive function and emotional balance. Additionally, practicing Meditation or Pranayama (breathing exercises) can help calm the mind and alleviate symptoms of anxiety.
Ensure you maintain a balanced diet rich in nourishing foods that support the nervous system, such as warm cooked grains, nuts, seeds, and plenty of seasonal vegetables. Avoid stimulants like caffeine and sugar, which can aggravate anxiety.
Engaging in gentle yoga or regular walks in nature can also provide physical benefits and help ground your energy. Consulting with an Ayurvedic practitioner for a personalized treatment plan, including lifestyle recommendations and herbal therapies, could further support your healing journey. Remember to be patient with yourself; healing takes time, and the focus should be on nurturing both your physical and emotional health.

Dr Sujal Patil · Answer

Hello Eva, Firstly it is commendable that you have become aware of the origin of your problem and started therapy. Please continue doing so. Consider laboratory tests for serum cortisol levels, vitamin D, and thyroid function tests (TSH, Free T3, Free T4) to rule out underlying physiological causes.
Along with that the following Ayurvedic prescription can help-
Medications and Supplements:
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): 500 mg capsule, once daily. This adaptogen reduces stress, anxiety, and supports cognitive function.
Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri): 300 mg capsule, twice daily. Enhances memory, concentration, and reduces mental fatigue.
Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi): 250 mg capsule, once daily before bed. Known for its sedative and calming effects, aiding in sleep and reducing stress.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: 1,000 mg fish oil, daily. Beneficial for brain function, reducing inflammation, and improving mood.
Lifestyle Modifications:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Weekly sessions recommended to address anxiety, stress, and cognitive distortions.
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR): Engage in daily mindfulness or meditation practices for 15-30 minutes to manage stress and anxiety.
Exercise: Gentle aerobic exercise like walking or yoga, 30 minutes daily to improve physical and mental energy.
Dietary Recommendations:
Anti-inflammatory Diet: Emphasize whole foods, including leafy greens, berries, nuts, and fatty fish like salmon.
Limit processed foods, refined sugar, and excessive caffeine, which can exacerbate anxiety and fatigue.
Hydration: Ensure adequate water intake, around 2-3 liters per day.
Sleep Hygiene:
Encourage regular sleep routines: Aim for 7-8 hours of uninterrupted sleep, going to bed and waking up at the same time each day.
Avoid stimulants like caffeine or heavy meals late in the evening.
Passionflower tea: 1 cup before bed to promote relaxation.
Adjunct Therapies:
Massage Therapy: Regular massage (once a week) to reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation.
Acupuncture: Sessions may help alleviate anxiety and improve energy levels by targeting specific points.
Follow-up:
Reassess the patient's symptoms after 4-6 weeks of treatment to adjust the dosage or introduce additional interventions as needed.

This evidence-based approach integrates herbal supplements, lifestyle changes, and modern therapeutic interventions to treat Astheno-Neurotic Syndrome comprehensively.

Dr. Ayush Varma · Answer

You're going through such a whirlwind. It can be exhausting when our mind takes us on these relentless journeys, especially when health issues crop up, like you described. I get it, truly... the weight of constant health worries can be so heavy. So, let’s talk Ayurveda and how it might offer you some solace.

First thing to know is that Ayurveda is all about balance, really tuning into what's going on with your body and mind. From what you've shared, there might be imbalances in the Vata dosha, which can make a person feel anxious, dizzy, restless—sound familiar? The aim's to calm this excess Vata and find grounding.

Here's what you might want to try out: start off with a routine that’s calming. Consider starting your day with a warm oil massage, Abhyanga, using sesame oil. It helps to get grounded, calm that overactive mind. After, have a warm, soothing bath. Stick to warm, cooked meals like soups, stews—heavy stuff ain’t it?—with spices like turmeric, cumin, and ginger to spark digestion (your digestive fire, or agni).

For mental calmness, Nasya, which is inhaling warmed sesame oil drops into the nostrils (not too much), could help soothe the mind. Also, Brahmi tea, known as a brain tonic, is great for anxiety, just a small cup to start.

Meditation’s a biggie, spending 10-15 minutes a day just focusing on your breath. Plus, think about yoga—gentle, not too intense—asanas like child’s pose, or savasana, could bring relaxation.

As for who else to talk to, consider seeking out a seasoned Ayurvedic practitioner near you. They'd offer a more tailored approach, considering your unique prakriti (constitution). But, key here is working along with your doctors and therapists too. Don’t stop any treatment without consulting them first.

You got this, patience is key—baby steps make big strides. Remember, it's okay to cry sometimes, feel dizzy, or off. Let's explore these paths, and see if they help in balancing your state.

I'm a hypochondriac - #176

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