I forgot to add what I have often wondered may be another key to all of this: One day a month (right around when I ovulate) things feel almost totally normal. I can think clearly and don’t hurt very much and have a reasonable amount of energy. I know that progesterone can increase aldosterone levels—perhaps I am getting a surge of progesterone at the mid-point of my cycle that has this effect? I have often felt like if I could replicate that day in my body every day, I could make it.