Anxiety

I just found this site and love it. I had a vaginal hysterectomy om Jan 18 and only my uterus was removed. Since I have come home from the hospital my anxiety level has skyrocked! I take 30mg Paxil for anxiety but it was under control and I would only have a couple of set backs which I could handle a year. Now I just fell very alone and anxcious and I am not sure if it is a side effect of the surgery or other things. I am not use to relaxing and taking it easy all day and it just makes me think more. My mother in law was just diagnosed with brain and lung cancer which could be adding to the stress. I am not sure if I should call my doctor and have my paxil upped or not. I feel I should be able to handle this but I must remember to quite being so hard on myself. The mornings when I first wake up are the worst. Any words of wisdom to help out there?

Hi ucek123

Welcome to Hystersisters! I'm sorry you're having such a struggle here. Feeling emotionally undone is pretty common after a hyst so don't panic. You aren't alone. It's a trauma to your body and hormones are usually all over the place right at first even when you keep your ovaries. They often will go into shock right after surgery and just need a little time to get used to the changes in your body.
I want to encourage you to call your dr and let him/her know you're having a difficult time. They will be able to help you analyze if changes need to be made with your medication. When you feel worried about the struggle it's always best to call.
There is a good article about how Hormones Affect Anxiety/Depression that might be helpful to you.
I hope you get to feeling better soon. Keep us posted on your progress.
's, Rita

You may need to change medications if Paxil is no longer working. I take Effexor for anxiety.