Description
Dysthymia is a form of depression that is less severe than major depression but usually lasts longer. Many people with this type of depression describe having been depressed as long as they can remember, or they feel they are going in and out of depression all the time. Symptoms usually begin slowly in adolescence or early adult life. Dysthymia does tend to run in families. People with dysthymia have a greater than average chance of developing major depression.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary with the severity of the disease. They may include weight loss or gain, excessive sleeping or trouble sleeping, irritability, decreased pleasure and a loss of energy. People with dysthymia may experience difficulty with inter personal relationships and self- esteem.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A complete history and physical will be performed. The provider may order certain lab tests to exclude other causes of depression.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH)
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Psychiatry, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Pediatric and Adolescent Psychiatry
Workup:
A complete history and physical will be performed. The provider may order certain lab tests to exclude other causes of depression.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH)
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Psychiatry, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Pediatric and Adolescent Psychiatry
Treatment
Treatment may vary depending on the severity of disease. A combination of psychotherapy and medications are frequently used. The most common anti-depressant medications used are fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), paroxetine (Paxil) and citalopram (Celexa). In some cases, your doctor may decide to add a mood stabilizer or anti-anxiety medication.