anger issues etc

[davidst01]

Over the last year or more I have been having anger issues. In the last few months its a lot worse and I have cognitive issues as well. Ive noticed that Im mixing up numbers and having memory issues. This morning I was looking at an appt slip that said 14.00 (time) and I wrote down the name and time as 11.00. I noticed a few hours later. I had a similar experience last week. In the afternoons at work my brain becomes a bit foggy. Its hard to describe but I feel my brain is not as good to be honest.

Its the anger thing that concerns me anything will trigger it and the wife is not happy which is fair enough. We have a 2 yr old and thus careful not to project any of this on her. Anxiety runs in the family and my sister has been on SSRI's for many yrs I think.

I have a severe head injury 8 yrs ago and not sure if that has anything to do with it. Im going to see a neuro dr that specialises in dimensia and cognitive behavioural things.

Should I be asking to go on anti anxiety drugs or something. I don't really want to as I know they are additive.

Whats your opinion on all this. Its affecting my marriage quite bad and sometimes I can't stop myself getting angry to be honest.

thanks

[lostinisaan]

I have a severe head injury 8 yrs ago and not sure if that has anything to do with it. Im going to see a neuro dr that specialises in dimensia and cognitive behavioural things.

Should I be asking to go on anti anxiety drugs or something. I don't really want to as I know they are additive.

Guess you meant addictive? But drugs like Valium, Diazepam, Lorazepam, etc...could have a very negative impact on you.

How old are you? How serious was your head injury? What happened right afterwards ( after the accident/incident)?

Do you dink alcohol on daily basis? You should be careful what you're doing and seek professional help immediately, before you're doing something weird.

If you post this on such an online forum you might not get the right advice you need. See professional medical help.

What's your anger about? About everything that you don't want to see, or you don't understand? Did you have a huge argument with your wife just recently?

But you wrote that this is going on for more than a year and you start to think about a solution now? Best of luck.

Edited June 9, 2016 by lostinisaan

[Sheryl]

You should definitely not ask for tranquilizers at this stage. These are potentially serious symptoms and what is important is to find out what is causing this and then develop a treatment or management approach accordingly. So see a neurologist as soon as possible.

In addition to a basic neuro exam, need to have a thyroid panel, testosterone panel, and B12 levels checked. Depending on the results of the basic neuro exam, brain scan might or might not be indicated.

If you are in Bangkok this doctor is very good:

https://www.bumrungrad.com/doctors/Ketchai-Suavansri

If all tests come out OK i.e. no apparent physical cause and the doctor thinks it unlikely to be the start of something like Alzheimer's then cause may be psychological. But rule out possible physical causes first. Sometimes the effort of suppressing an issue which is troubling you can exhaust the brain to the point of dementia-like symptoms/extreme fogginess as well as of course eruptions of anger. But first make sure there is not a neurological or other condition at the root of this. If not, then still don't reach for tranquilizers, but instead see a counselor to try to get to the bottom of what it is that is really bothering you.

[davidst01]

Thanks for the replies.

I don't really drink anymore. Sometimes just a beer.

I forgot to say that Im not sleeping well either and frequently wake up at 2am and can't get back to sleep for a long time.

See what the dr says.

cheers

[Bantex]

Take Sheryl's advice and see a doctor straight away.

I was previously having blurred vision at times, forgetfulness, getting angry at the stupidest of things. I also was waking up at 3 AM and not able to get back to sleep. When I went shopping, I had to write down what I wanted to get as I knew I'd forget by the time I arrived at the shop but frequently forgot to take the list with me. I saw a doctor, it was my thyroid and after treatment I'm back to normal.

So see a doctor. It might not be as bad as you think.

Edited June 9, 2016 by Bantex

[Morakot]

David,

You sound very composed in your message.

If you are not an older person, the likelihood of Alzheimer or something similar is low. It is more likely that there are some underlying psychological issues. Stress can be a relevant factor and can leave your cognitive functions impaired; this is common in certain situations (new child care responsibilities, moving countries, drastic life changes, etc.) for many people.

A professional (licensed) counsellor may possibly be a good starting point for helping you to address the anger issues and explore what contributes to these debilitating situations.

All the best,

PS: If you had no problem for seven years after your injury, it is not likely related. If you're worried that there is a connection, consult a neurologist.

Edited June 9, 2016 by Morakot

[White Christmas13]

Does HADS affects grown up people ?

[Morakot]

Does HADS affects grown up people ?

You mean attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?

If this question relates to the OP, it's impossible to say. Qualified diagnosticians will only reach a conclusion by considering all evidence.

Edited June 9, 2016 by Morakot

[wotsdermatter]

As a Clinical Psychologist, I would like to put in my small contribution to this topic. Generally, those with Alzheimer’s tend to be over 65 and older. It is not commonly accepted that a younger person may develop the disease. However, roughly 5% of those with the disease develop symptoms in their 30s, 40s, or 50s and is known as early onset Alzheimer’s disease.

A lot of individuals who have it often go a long time before receiving a true diagnosis. That frequently happens because doctors do not usually believe it to be possible or acceptable as a diagnosis during midlife. They often think symptoms like memory loss are from stress or something similar.

Early-onset Alzheimer's may be genetic and research shows that it could involve changes in one of three rare genes passed down from a parent. Be warned about taking any supplement, diet, or regimen that claims to cure it. There is no evidence to support such claims or shows any of them are suitable cures for the disease.

At the time of my writing this, there are at least five medications that are approved to treat Alzheimer’s symptoms: donepezil (Aricept), Galantamine (Razadyne), Memantine (Namenda), Rivastigmine (Exelon), and Tacrine (Cognex). The medication might help with thinking, memory, language skills, and some behavioural problems. Having said that, they do not help all users, so be careful in taking them. Usually, however, any relief is temporary. Any person with the condition can only expect to do better for a year or so at the most.

Get to a psychologist who specialises in the disorder. Do not go to a psychiatrist as they may subscribe inappropriate medications.

No reply needed.

'nuf sed.

Edited June 10, 2016 by Rimmer
Fonts corrected

[taichiplanet]

take Sheryl's advice.

if not a physical problem then maybe doing an online course to help with the anxiety like this one (which i am doing now), it may help with the anger too.

https://www.futurelearn.com/courses/mindfulness-wellbeing-performance

there are probably similar ones that may deal specifically with anger. i also had issues with anger and no matter how much i tried it would keep happening, even though i knew what i was doing was counter-productive. it certainly helps to want to change, but the problem is changing the way you look at things so it doesn't trigger or evolve into anger. Each time it happens look at why, and was the issue that important in the scheme of things. After a while you start to catch it earlier and earlier, and the anger turns to just being pissed off with out showing it too much! Then it becomes a non issue. it is okay to be annoyed or upset with something but not to let it become anger. The biggest thing that helped me was my gf, i was never angry at her but at other people and other situations, i got her to gently and calmly point out to me whenever i got even remotely upset about something. This helped change how i looked at things, as the last thing i wanted to do is upset her by my behaviour (and raise my blood pressure).

But first it is important you get properly checked out by taking Sheryl's advice.

Edited June 10, 2016 by taichiplanet

[ThaiWai]

As a Clinical Psychologist, I would like to put in my small contribution to this topic. Generally, those with Alzheimer’s tend to be over 65 and older. It is not commonly accepted that a younger person may develop the disease. However, roughly 5% of those with the disease develop symptoms in their 30s, 40s, or 50s and is known as early onset Alzheimer’s disease.

A lot of individuals who have it often go a long time before receiving a true diagnosis. That frequently happens because doctors do not usually believe it to be possible or acceptable as a diagnosis during midlife. They often think symptoms like memory loss are from stress or something similar.

Early-onset Alzheimer's may be genetic and research shows that it could involve changes in one of three rare genes passed down from a parent. Be warned about taking any supplement, diet, or regimen that claims to cure it. There is no evidence to support such claims or shows any of them are suitable cures for the disease.

At the time of my writing this, there are at least five medications that are approved to treat Alzheimer’s symptoms: donepezil (Aricept), Galantamine (Razadyne), Memantine (Namenda), Rivastigmine (Exelon), and Tacrine (Cognex). The medication might help with thinking, memory, language skills, and some behavioural problems. Having said that, they do not help all users, so be careful in taking them. Usually, however, any relief is temporary. Any person with the condition can only expect to do better for a year or so at the most.

Get to a psychologist who specialises in the disorder. Do not go to a psychiatrist as they may subscribe inappropriate medications.

No reply needed.

'nuf sed.

I think your font just gave me Alzheimers

[1FinickyOne]

Yes, a blow to the head can bring on dementia and other mental problems, which manifest in anger issues and even inappropriate behavior... just google "dementia causes" and see what matches up but a good doctor should be able to help. good luck to you.

[hdkane]

First, I'm sorry that you are experiencing such a difficult time...cognitive issues are much more frightening than more common physical ailments, in my opinion, because how we think defines who we are...also, it speaks highly of you that you have insight to notice something is different in your life...that is a true strength for you and will help you significantly to cope with the problems you may have...

as many have suggested, you may have a true physical issue, possibly related to TBI, or you maybe experiencing some difficulties due to stressors in your life...they symptoms can often be the same, but the etiology is different...and of course, it could be an interaction of the two...one issue with TBI is that symptoms might not appear for some time...or we lack insight to notice them...you are way ahead of the game in that you have insight...and insight is valuable...

so you are on the right track to differentiate between the two possible causes for your problem...you need a full work up, with a neuropsychologist...they will give you psychometric tests that can determine the extent if impairment, if any....they also are a very good source of rehab, if needed...take these results with you to a neurologist or other physician...they will use medical procedures (e.g., MRI) to determine if there are structural or functional issues that are related to any observed impairments...psychiatrists can prescribe medicine that can assist treating symptoms...once you know what you're dealing with, you can then take the steps to acquire skills to cope...and improve...

also if there are physical causes to your issues, you need to inform your wife or gf...i do not know about Thai culture...but in the usa, where i used to live, the biggest source of support was always a loving and supportive spouse/family...

if you accurately identify the issues, not just the symptoms, you can expect improvement in a very short time...

stay away from "holistic" treatments...they work only because of placebo effects...if you enjoy the ritual of some of these treatments, then go ahead and enjoy the accupuncture, herbs, or whatever...but don't eschew real medicine and science...

[BigT73]

hi, this is a bit left field, are you exercising? simple 30min walk in the morning or a cheap gym membership will help expel built up energy and help promote sleep. Plenty fruit veges for the system if you are contemplating tablets.

[SOTIRIOS]

...maybe you are being poisoned....

...go have a full screen blood test....

[malt25]

hi, this is a bit left field, are you exercising? simple 30min walk in the morning or a cheap gym membership will help expel built up energy and help promote sleep. Plenty fruit veges for the system if you are contemplating tablets.

Spot on ! Maybe this suggestion isn't the magic solution, but great advice anyway. Certainly won't do you any harm & give you a bit of free time to think, reflect, while you are doing your walk.

Just a thought.

[Stevemercer]

I agree with other posters that you need to get your thyroid checked out. Anxiety/depression can cause similar symptoms, but unfortunately there are no physiological tests for these conditions, medications can be trial and error and take months to see if they are effective or not. Anyway, you are seeking medical advice and going down the right track. Just be aware that it may take up to half a year to diagnose/fix your problem and so you need to take steps now to control your anger and memory (e.g. fix in your mind that you will never loose your temper with your child/wife (walk out of the room if you have to) and start keeping a diary and making daily lists etc.)

[button]

Sounds to me like you have stress/anxiety issues. In my two year experience with anxiety issues, I'd say Sheryl's advice is best. IMO, the last thing you'd want to do is go to a neuro or psych. doctor. He will put you on anti-anxiety medication that has serious side effects, plus will become ineffective after a number of months. All of this, he will not tell you. After one year of being on Ativan, I'm coming off at my own insistence after doing research on this med on the internet. Coming off Ativan (or Xanax or whatever) means withdrawal symptoms similar to the anxiety you had in the first place.

Easy to anger is a trigger for anxiety because your body is constantly in a reactive (immune system) overload.

Do you homework about meds -- only as a last resort. Seek a counselor first. Reading how to 'catch' anger before it manifests as an outward response, there is no better than books by Eckhart Tolle: The Power of Now and This New Earth.

Good luck! You're at the early stage of serious anxiety -- do something about it now.

[Rimmer]

A troll post has been removed

[thecyclist]

I think the dangers of sedatives are exaggerated.Sure they can be habit forming, but an occasional pill to get you through a bad day or half a Zolpidem to get a few extra hours of sleep and feel rested in the morning can do a lot of good by helping you to avoid "crashing" .Regular exercise works wonders too.Give one of the SSRI a try,if you respond well they can radically transform your life.

[Toscano]

A brain scan may be necessary . After a severe head injury some years ago , there is even a possibility of a brain tumour .

Edited June 10, 2016 by Rimmer
Fonts corrected

[Rimmer]

More troll posts have been removed, also grammar police posts which only serve to hijack the topic, please do not do it.

I have also corrected some posts in wild fonts, please only use the standard font, thank you.

[malt25]

Sounds to me like you have stress/anxiety issues. In my two year experience with anxiety issues, I'd say Sheryl's advice is best. IMO, the last thing you'd want to do is go to a neuro or psych. doctor. He will put you on anti-anxiety medication that has serious side effects, plus will become ineffective after a number of months. All of this, he will not tell you. After one year of being on Ativan, I'm coming off at my own insistence after doing research on this med on the internet. Coming off Ativan (or Xanax or whatever) means withdrawal symptoms similar to the anxiety you had in the first place.

Easy to anger is a trigger for anxiety because your body is constantly in a reactive (immune system) overload.

Do you homework about meds -- only as a last resort. Seek a counselor first. Reading how to 'catch' anger before it manifests as an outward response, there is no better than books by Eckhart Tolle: The Power of Now and This New Earth.

Good luck! You're at the early stage of serious anxiety -- do something about it now.

Welcome to the tribe Button.

Although your response is positive, I'd suggest you not be so negative about medication. I have been on daily medication for many years for anxiety & depression. Will be taking them till I eventually fall off the perch. Without the medication I doubt if I'd be here writing this.

I agree, exhaust all other avenues, but if all else fails, medication just might be your answer.

Cheers..... Mal.

[soc]

l agree with Toscano.

My brother had the same symptoms that you are experiencing.

And they were getting worse.

He eventually was discovered to have a Tumour on the brain, caused from a head injury.

Luckily for him, it was on the outside of his brain & the tumour was successfully removed.

You may not have a tumour, but should at least get it checked.

[biplanebluey]

Thanks for the replies.

I don't really drink anymore. Sometimes just a beer.

I forgot to say that Im not sleeping well either and frequently wake up at 2am and can't get back to sleep for a long time.

See what the dr says.

cheers

For heaven's sake stop right there.This is obviously a serious matter .you should forget posting on an open forum and see a doctor----NOW

[arjunadawn]

There's so many thoughtful and helpful posts here. It's these threads that really show how positive TV can be for members.

I applaud you bravely offering this for feedback. Some of the changes in my life also look like this. Thank you for this OP. I pray you health and longevity brother.

[djlest]

Here is my 2 cents..
As someone who has lived in Thailand for 12 years, and also had many many angry bouts during my early days... Its not uncommon to be so overwhelmed with a deep seated anger that you start losing focus of numbers, forgetting things, you are stressed out and the anger is causing that.

Dont feel bad or that there is something seriously wrong with you, its very common with a lot of westerners that live here.
Its so easily to be completely disconnected here, the Thais are not an easy bunch to live with and discuss your problems with. And westerners here are not the greatest when it comes to making good meaningful relationships, one only has to spend 5 minutes on thaivisa to know exactly what im talking about here. Its tough and we get repressed, we bottle it up, we get frustrated and then POP - we lash out...
I guess in a nutshell we are also becoming THAI in our behaviour... because they to can have serious anger issues due to repression...

Anyways, my advise is this...
Go and do some excercise, get on a treadmill and run for 30 mins, everyday if you can!
It will definitely help you realease some of that pent up rage...
Also change your diet, eat less meat and try and eat more vegetables and fruit.
And finally....

Sometimes just to visit a temple, to hang out there for one hour in a peaceful place with peaceful people. I love to hand out with a few monks when im having a hard time, it just helps me to see the bigger picture. When you spend a few hours with someone who is genuinely peaceful, happy, wise or have dedicated their lives to a better of thinking than ours. It kinda rubs off on you, and you can feel afterwards and less angry. Doesnt matter if you are buddhist or not, just use the place as somewhere to reflect and come down!

Good luck, and stay off those nasty meds... a clean body and mind will make you feel much better than having to take meds and feel there is something mentally wrong with you.
You are probably just out of balance with yourself and body, thats all...

[aneliane]

...maybe you are being poisoned....

...go have a full screen blood test....

I agree check for mercury, fluoride, strontium and aluminum.

These are everywhere and known for serious neurological and cognitive disorders.

Buy a TDS meter and check your water.