I feel horrible!

I have not been feeling good for over a week. I think I need some support.. I have been into my primary care physician 4 times in the last 7 days. I have an appt. with a psychiatrist tomorrow afternoon. My doctor claims I am suffering from anxiety and panic attacks. I was diagnosed with anxiety almost 10 years ago as a teen. I have been taking zoloft daily and of course my diagnosing psychiatrist retired and moved away. Things had been going good until recently. I have been feeling nausea and loss of appetite, racing heartbeat, getting dehydrated, sweating, shaking, dizzy, clamy palms etc.. I have been suffering from these symptoms since last Sunday (the 9th). My doctor gave me a prescription for xanax but it makes me feel like I am not in myself. I have trouble sleeping through the night and wanted some advice on things to do to calm these feelings besides medication. Please help...

Thank You. I graduated on March 6th from college and have been going through some changes. It's just weird because consciously I don't feel worried. My days used to be so full, I would be in clinicals for school from 7am-2pm and then would goto work after that (most days). I am working at the same place, just got a promotion you could say due to graduating, although I have not been to work in over a week. So much for begining to train in my new position! I'm just glad I am not the only one who feels like this. I guess I didn't realize that A/P can physically make you feel so terrible! And yes, my pcp says all my blood work is normal, and besides the lack of nutrition from not eating and an increased heart rate I appear to be healthy. She did refer me to a GI specialist, but am unable to get an appt until the 31st.
Thank you all for caring,
Deb

Welcome to healingwell and congratulations on your graduation.  Any changes in routine (especially having more time on your hands) can lead to A/P and it sounds like you are having a few.  I'm sorry to hear you are feeling unwell..I find it hard to eat when panicky but find just small meals (little bits of soup or soft fruit) can really help me deal with anxiety.

The xanax is also usefull but can make you feel a bit spacey..!! Maybe your doc could suggest a longer lasting medication or an anti-depressent that might work a bit better.  I would also suggest counselling..have you tried CBT?? It works wonders for some people on this site.  I hope this helps you a little, and again, a very warm welcome to you

keep us posted xx

Welcome to HealingWell and I am so glad you found us.

I agree with the other members here and please know you are not alone in your feelings. Signs of anxiety include restlessness, a lot of  worrying about things that probably will not happen, and not being able to pay attention or remain focused on a task.  Sometimes the stress can get extreme and lead to panic attacks. Panic attacks are short times of intense fear and anxiety, which often include quick heartbeats, shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness or stomach problems.

Please talk with your P-doctor regarding any of these signs.
Some things that may help lower your stress are: Getting enough rest (at least 8 hours a day) .Meditation (sitting quietly with your thoughts). Listening to gentle music, reading, massage, taking a warm bath, ging for walks and regular exercise that you are used to doing.

Again a warm welcome.

Kitt 

Deb,

Thank you for the update and that is good news.  I am glad your planing to stay with us. 

^{Support groups are a place for people to give and receive both emotional and practical support as well as to exchange information.
You have found the best site on the web................Hugs to you}