### Tags [[tags/POIS]], [[tags/SSRI]], [[tags/autonomic dysfunction]], [[tags/behavioral conditioning]], [[tags/cognitive decline]], [[tags/neurochemical imbalance]], [[tags/neuroplasticity]], [[tags/psychological symptoms]], [[tags/sensory symptoms]] ### POIS Case Study - JRD #### 1. Summary of POIS Experience and History: JRD has experienced POIS for several years, with symptoms manifesting immediately or shortly after orgasm. The condition is characterized by a wide range of debilitating symptoms affecting multiple systems, including neurological, sensory, autonomic, and psychological domains. JRD's symptoms have been exacerbated by long-term SSRI use and subsequent withdrawal, leading to a significant decline in cognitive and emotional functioning. The individual dismisses semen allergy as a cause, instead attributing the symptoms to neurochemical imbalances. #### 2. Key Symptoms and Patterns: - **Neurological/Cognitive**: Severe brain fog, memory issues, psychomotor disturbances (tremors, dysarthria), headaches, and sound sensitivity. - **Sensory/Skin-Related**: Extreme itching, numbness, migratory nerve pains, burning skin sensations, and tiny red spots. - **Autonomic Dysfunction**: Palpitations, cold sensitivity, and excessive sweating. - **Psychological**: Low self-esteem, social phobia, irritability, anger, dysphoria, and suicidal ideation. - **Other Physical Symptoms**: White tongue, narrowed throat, metallic taste, frequent urination, and exhaustion. Symptoms fluctuate in intensity and number, with cognitive and psychological symptoms being consistently severe. The onset is immediate or shortly after orgasm, with acute symptoms lasting days to weeks. #### 3. Attempted Treatments and Effectiveness: - **SSRI Use**: Long-term SSRI treatment worsened cognitive and emotional symptoms, particularly during withdrawal. - **Behavioral Conditioning**: JRD suggests that rewiring behavioral tendencies and normalizing sexual perception patterns may be necessary for recovery. - **Neurochemical Interventions**: No specific treatments targeting neurochemical imbalances have been reported, but JRD emphasizes the need for such approaches. #### 4. Current Status: JRD is not cured and continues to experience severe POIS symptoms. The individual is undergoing evaluation for mild cognitive impairment, which may provide further insights into the neurological basis of their condition. #### 5. Relevant Medical Test Results or Biomarkers: No specific medical test results or biomarkers are mentioned, but JRD's symptoms suggest potential vascular, inflammatory, or neurochemical mechanisms. #### 6. Identified Triggers or Correlations: - **Orgasm**: Immediate trigger for symptom onset. - **SSRI Use and Withdrawal**: Exacerbates cognitive and emotional symptoms. - **Behavioral Patterns**: The manner of sexual experience may influence symptom severity. #### 7. Quality of Life Impact: POIS has a profound impact on JRD's quality of life, with severe cognitive and psychological symptoms leading to social isolation, low self-esteem, and suicidal ideation. The condition significantly impairs daily functioning and mental health. TAGS: POIS, neurochemical imbalance, SSRI, cognitive decline, autonomic dysfunction, psychological symptoms, sensory symptoms, neuroplasticity, behavioral conditioning CURED: false RELEVANCE_SCORE: 9