- How Do I Get Rid Of Somatic Complaints?
QUESTION:
Dear Dr. Heller,
Hello-I have read Biological Unhappiness and can identify myself and my family with the syndromes that you describe. I myself somatize emotions and have had a very bad case of gastric esophageal reflux for 5 years. It is very clear that it was initiated by a psychological event. (My daughter moved in with her boyfriend. I was very happy about this; however, the day after the move I was extremely depressed and had a severe case of GERD. The link between the two events was obviously unconscious). An endoscopy was negative.
My question to you is: What medications have you found most effective for somatic symptoms? Particulary for GAD sufferers. I see a therapist, and have a massage therapist. Prozac made me very sick. Diet doesn’t really have much to do with it.
Thank you.
ANSWER:
You need BuSpar, with Remeron if the BuSpar causes you side effects. Somatic symptoms are very frustrating for the patient – but they are a symptom of the anxiety. Treating all the anxiety disorders and depression is crucial. Retraining the brain is also necessary.
