Greatful to finally have found a resource.

Hello! I am 40 years old and have suffered from anxiety and panic attacks for the last 20 years. Mostly health related anxiety. Last year I was in the ER for a rapid HR (170 beats per minute) and had a full cardiology work up. There was nothing wrong, other than my heart runs higher than normal. My doctor prescribed propranol 80 mgs and zolft 100 mgs. And I had been doing pretty well. Recently, I have been noticing palpations, which of course cycles my anxiety, which brings more palpatations which cycles my anxiety. I phoned my do tor and he wants to increase my propranol to 120 mgs, however because my HR is already down at 70 for resting and my BP is already low, i'm scared to increase the meds. But I am also really anxious about the palpatations, even though, in my right mind, I know it's nothing but the anxiety, my anxiety brain still freaks out and thinks that its my heart. And I get panicky, then of course it happens again. Part of me doesnt want to call and argue with my doctor, as he should know what's best. On the other hand maybe I need the reassurance. I try so hard to manage and hold everything together. Talk myself down, but it doesnt work.

Hi Tbyrd and welcome!

I am sorry to hear that those annoying palps have made the list of symptoms for you recently.;( No fun!

What if anything have you done to manage your anxiety, as far as self help and therapy go? Have you worked specifically to target the health realted fears?

Here are some great links to check out if you've not done so alread. Going through them could make a difference if you apply the suggested methods.

 

Health Anxiety - A Self Help Guide:

 

http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hypochondria/pages/introduction.aspx

Helping health Anxiety

 

http://www.cci.health.wa.gov.au/resources/infopax.cfm?Info_id=53

Health Anxiety- The Super Scanner

 

http://www.get.gg/docs/SuperScanner.pdf

Self Help for PVCs

http://heartpvcs.com/pvc_cures.htm

http://heartpvcs.com/long_term_pvc_cures.htm

Ultimately you will have to decide what you do as far as your Rx is concerned...but perhaps trying some of the methods here first, to see if they bring relief could prove a beneficial move.

Keep posting here with us if you find it helpful. We are here to listen, encourage...and support is key!

Scaredy Cat

Tb,

I know...I have been there...

...but it does get better. Time and continued effort are key. I can see you are motivated, so I'm sure it will go well for you.:)

Keep up with the things you are doing, and the plan to discuss options with your doctor.

We are here for you anytime along your journey, so keep us updated.

Wishing you a day of peace and progress!

Talk soon,

S.C.