Even though, I have been on a well controlled diet with acceptable levels within range for many years, every now and then I still struggle.  AS I have talked about in the past 3 posts and make reference to through out my blog , as a teen I struggled immensely and suffered from High PHE level syndrome for years.  High PHE level syndrome is prolonged levels in a high range and the symptoms brought on by the high levels.

Now when I have high levels i am very sensitive to the slightest change and I can recognize it in my body with in days.  I can feel it the same day if I have eaten to much protein.

I have been asked a lot lately what id feels like. So I thought id share a post today about what high levels someone may experience and how it feels to me.

Headaches-  Different from tension headaches or migraines. When my levels have been to high and I have a high level headache. This headache feels like a full head pain. Like being knocked on the head. Strong behind the eyes similar to a sinus headache but wider. It radiates at the top of my head and it makes me feel tired . Sensitive to light.  I tend to hide out in my bedroom more .

Brain Fog-  I use this as a broad term to cover many different feelings.  For me having brain fog means that I have trouble focusing , retaining information,  finishing trains of thought.  simple problem solving.  It also effects my ability to learn . I also have problem recalling past information and facts.  I also have a very hard time with math.

Behavior-  I get agitated quicker. Overwhelmed and irrational.  I feel angry for little or no reason.  Or I cry easily. I take things the wrong way and become very emotional.  I call it feeling crazy, and all over the place. Like my head is spinning a mile a minute around me I cant keep up.

Mental state- I have struggled with depression for 7 years.  2008-2015. Due to multiple injuries and circumstances but made worse when my levels are higher. Also when my levels are high I have anxiety. Mostly about driving or being alone. I hate doing things alone or going somewhere alone. I wont drive certain distances, or go out after 3 and not after dark either.  I get panic attacks too.

Verbal- I tend to ramble more,  my writing is effected in such that i am more repetitive .  Friends and family can tell just by talking to me that i am off or not making sense. it is like I have a harder time articulating what I mean to say. it makes sense in my mind but dosent come out the way it was in my head.

Fine motor skills- I find my reaction times are effected and my reflexes. They feel impaired.

Physical- I find my chronic pain is increased .  It feels like an all over pain . My muscles feel heavy and inflamed. My joints ache. I feel like muscles are pulled or ripped. I have a very hard time relaxing.

When you are feeling like this it can be very hard to pull yourself out of the merry go round  . Thankfully I have a wonderful support system and am apart of an amazing community  and have built friendships and relationships that have gotten me though and held me up when i have fallen and helped me find my way again.  I know with my friends and family and my team behind me I can get back on track and I will !