Lithium Experiences

My psych started me on lithium last week as my hypomania was escalating. I've read about all of the typical side effects and haven't noticed many yet. I have noticed some things not listed, which I'm sure is common. Within an hour of taking it, I start to smell and taste what seems to be floral scented laundry detergent. I use unscented detergent, unscented fabric softener, unscented soap, unscented lotion, etc, etc, and I've not changed any brands. The other thing I've noticed is something weird with my hearing and this is difficult to explain. Yesterday, I started having periods where I felt like whatever I happened to be listening to (the radio, a conversation, etc) had the quality of being in a very large, empty room, even though I was in the car, a room at home, or a small shop. There is no echo, my eustachian tubes are clear and this is unlike anything I've ever experienced before. It lasts anywhere from 10 minutes to one hour and is really odd. Oh, and my fingertips are freezing.

So, what typical and/or atypical side effects have you had that you attribute to lithium? Where they temporary, going away after you adjusted to the medication, or did you get to keep them? Things like the hearing oddness make me think I'm having some sort of psychotic event.

Thanks all and take good care,
Alice

I was on Lithium for almost 7 years when i was younger, like 9-16, after the first year i dont remember any of the side effects but one, i gained A LOT of weight. I was 350 lbs at the age of 13, that was my peak. I was also only 5ft 10in at the time too. After i got off it around 16 i dropped to 175 in a matter of months. It stayed off till i hit my mid 20's then i jumped back to 250 at 6ft 3in.

My dr's i have seen between all of that said it was nothing to worry about but from the weight gain it caused knee and ankle issues that i still have today. Even some odd 15 yrs later. My research found that as it is a salt you need to be on a VERY strict diet and do a lot of exercise to counter this side effect. I would suggest talking to you DR and get your Rx changed if they plan to keep you on it for more then a year.

Hi hon

I have done OK on lithium and from a mood pov it has really helped me. I have not noticed the things you describe except I also have freezing fingertips tho I cant think how lithium causes that. The first thing I thought when I read your post was are you having hallucinations? I think it would be worth asking your Dr what he thinks as I have not come across those side effects you describe. The main ones I get are increased thirst, increased peeing and tremor.

Cracked

Thanks PolarKuma and Cracked for your info.

PolarKuma wrote:I was on Lithium for almost 7 years when i was younger, like 9-16, after the first year i dont remember any of the side effects but one, i gained A LOT of weight.

I just started on lithium last week and I see my psych this week as well to determine how it's going with the new med. I'll definitely be very careful with my diet and exercise, and I've been working on those things already. Thanks.

CrackedGirl wrote: I also have freezing fingertips tho I cant think how lithium causes that.

Can we submit a paper based on a sample size of two?

CrackedGirl wrote: The first thing I thought when I read your post was are you having hallucinations?

Cracked, I don't know why I didn't think of this, well I think I had a fleeting thought of it but really just wanted these to be side effects, not hallucinations. I read your post just before I went to see my therapist this morning, and it clicked that they must be hallucinations. So, when I had one of the auditory episodes while driving to her office, I just burst into tears. She agreed, and reminded me that my psychotic episodes are not yet under control, I just seem to have conveniently forgotten that fact and these are different than the others have been, but are hallucinations none the less. She's really a dear. She helped me get through today, gave me a book to start reading, An Unquiet Mind by Kay Redfield Jamison, and helped me with strategies on how to have the patience needed to get through all of these adjustments. She is seeing me again in two days, right after I see my psych, as she feels I need the extra support right now.

I see my psych in Wednesday and will discuss all of this with him. I know my medication tango is far from done, but my feet are really tired from all of the dancing and my toes are sore from being stepped on.

Thanks, again,
Alice

Hi honey

I am glad your therapist is being supportive.

I have read that book and it is really really good. I hope it helps you.

Take really good care of yourself.

And yes I think we have a landmark paper to submit between us

Huge hugs

Cracked