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:My main problem now is this: I hate taking medicine. Of any type. My husband :tries to hide the bottles because I’ll read the side effects list and freak ut. I have a hard time even taking a tablespoon of Pepto-Bismol when I have :an upset stomach. I hate taking aspirin or anything similar if I have a :headache. So, more often than not, I’ll just suffer through the headache or :stomachache or whatever, rather than take any medication to help it along. :Anyone else have this experience with medicine? That’s partly why I quit :taking even the Paxil. :I don’t really expect a solution, I guess I just want to know if anyone else :has this same issue. Dear Selene, Welcome to ASAP!! What you describe is "medication phobia", which many Medication phobia is all about fearing the side-effects of meds and fearing "loss of control" once you swallow that pill. At my worst with medication phobia I wouldn`t even take tylenol for my migraines because if I did, I would panic thinking it would so something bad to me. I was also diagnosed with a thyroid disorder around this time and debated ditching the med I would need to take for the rest of my life because of this medication phobia. I did manage to take the pill when I thought about how lousy I was feeling and knew I really had no choice if I hard. My paxil also sat in the cabinet for a few days until I could muster it went alot better than I thought it would. sane when taking my paxil and thyroid meds twice in one day a few weeks alone with this fear! I find taking my meds without thinking much about what I am doing and not reading about the side-effects until I feel comfortable on the med…… works best for me. Take care and welcome again Jackie ~*~Victory is not won in miles but in inches. Win a little now, hold your ground, and later win a little more~*~

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Hi Selene, Well, you are not alone! I suffer from GAD but had my first anxiety attack about 4 years ago. I just started having a completely out of it feeling like I was not really in the moment. Things seemed very weird to me. I was feeling light-headed all the time and the more I thought about it the worse it got. I went to the doctor a couple of weeks later thinking I had a brain tumor. He suggested taking Zoloft as he thought it was just anxiety. I took the Zoloft for a few weeks not really noticing any change but stopped because I feared the side effects. Dizziness and light-headedness are side effects of Zoloft so I couldn’t understand taking it for the light-headedness I was already feeling. I learned to manage my anxiety for a few years not having any problems at all and do not have that spacey feeling anymore after getting the Attacking Anxiety program from the Midwest Center. I recently started taking Effexor and Buspar for my GAD (I worry constantly) but also fear the side effects which I am experiencing now. I completely understand your fear of taking medications. I feel that way too but feel it is something I need to do right now to alleviate the worrying. Good luck to you. Jon – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all. I’m Selene and just thought I’d take a minute to introduce myself, since I’ve already responded to some other posts on here. I’ve lived with panic disorder for about nine years now. I had my first attack while watching a movie on my VCR –  just sitting there, watching a movie and eating a cookie and all of a sudden I couldn’t breathe; I got dizzy and my fingers and lips went numb – I felt "out of it", like I wasn’t really there. I’m sure this is a familiar story to most of you. Anyway, got my husband to take me to the hospital because I thought I was having an allergic reaction to something. Doctor gave me a shot of something that knocked me out, and an inhaler, because he thought it might be asthma. The next day, I had another attack. I used the inhaler – and let me tell you, that was the absolute worst attack I’ve ever had. I honestly thought I was going to die. To this day, I can’t use any nose sprays or throat sprays or anything even similar. After being misdiagnosed all over the place and thinking I was going crazy, I finally took matters into my own hands and went online looking for answers. I found an anxiety website (can’t remember which one) that had one of those interactive diagnostic quizzes. Well, after I found a name for my problem, I went to another doctor and asked him what he thought. He agreed that my symptoms sounded like panic disorder and prescribed Paxil for me. I took the Paxil for about a year and sought brief counseling, learned some tools for dealing with it and have gotten much better. Cut out caffeine, alcohol and the like. My main problem now is this: I hate taking medicine. Of any type. My husband tries to hide the bottles because I’ll read the side effects list and freak out. I have a hard time even taking a tablespoon of Pepto-Bismol when I have an upset stomach. I hate taking aspirin or anything similar if I have a headache. So, more often than not, I’ll just suffer through the headache or stomachache or whatever, rather than take any medication to help it along. Anyone else have this experience with medicine? That’s partly why I quit taking even the Paxil. I don’t really expect a solution, I guess I just want to know if anyone else has this same issue.

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Question:

Being many times in an anxiety attack, and also having severe asthma, I am familiar with both versions, the real, and the anxiety, which is hard to distinguish from the real. I recommend that anybody with panic attacks where breathing is a symptom, ask their physician for a "peak flow meter" It is used by asthmatics to keep their illness under control. Just establish the three points on the meter according to directions. If you are having a panic attack you will read pretty much normal (in your best range). It will relieve you greatly to know that regardless of the symptoms, your breathing is actually all right. Boyd

: in the middle of an anxiety attack.  I hate this.. : :

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I bet by this time you are over your anxiety attack, however, I still would like to respong.  One thing I have found great for my anxiety/panic attacks is to stretch.  It can be yoga or just basic stretches that one does for sports, but if you focus on the counting, tension in your ligaments and muscles, you can really bring yourself down.  Another good way to help slow down your pulse is to do what an ex-Air Force pilot once told me.  You hold you breath for 5 seconds, let it out, and repeat.  And remmeber above all else that: 1.) Anxiety and panic does not kill. 2.) You are not going crazy.  and 3.) It does not last forever. Hope I helped. Frost

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Try breathing in, hold your breath for 5 seconds, breathe it all out. Repeat. Splash some water on your face. Try drinking a glass of water. Do you have medication, eg Xanax?

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – in the middle of an anxiety attack.  I hate this..

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in the middle of an anxiety attack.  I hate this..

Kitte,try to breath quietly and concentrate on your breath. Put your hands on your stomach and try to breath through your stomach. And remember It will pass,it allways does. I am here Love Anna

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How are you feeling today?  I do hope much better… Those feelings of anxiety are so scary but they do go away. smiles, Elise

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – in the middle of an anxiety attack.  I hate this..

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in the middle of an anxiety attack.  I hate this.. Kitte,try to breath quietly and concentrate on your breath. Put your hands on your stomach and try to breath through your stomach. And remember It will pass,it allways does. I am here

yep, they all pass…just let it go thru it’s course. I hope when you read the messages you’re feeling better!

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I can feel it coming on.  my heart is beating faster.  can’t breath. feeling of not being in control.  scared.  why am I getting these. i want it to go away

This is taken from the Bourne Anxiety and Phobia Workbook: An Anxiety Attack: The good news is that it’s possible to intervene at any point in this sequence. Phase 1    Initiating circumstances (internal or external)    (You can intervene at this point by taking good care of yourself, getting out of stress, eat properly, exercising, relaxing techniques, etc) Phase 2    Slight increase in unusual or unpleasant body symptoms (i.e., heart palputations, shortness of breath, faintness or dizziness, sweating, etc.)    (You can intervene at this point by doing the same as you would do for Phase 1, plus identifying what you were doing when these feelings began.) Phase 3    Internalization (increased focus on symptoms makes them more noticeable and easily magnified)    (You can intervene at this point by getting your attention off from your magnified symptoms by retreating, talking to another person, engaging in physical activity, staying in the present, doing a simple repetitive activity, doing something that requires focused concentration, expressing anger, experiencing something immediately pleasurable, visualizing a comforting person or scene, practice thought stopping, practice abdominal breathing, practice muscle relaxation, repeat positive coping statements, using breathing and coping statements together.  See if you can detatch from the physical feelings and observe your reactions) Phase 4    Catastrophic interpretation (telling yourself the symptom is dangerous – i.e., "I’ll have a heart attack", "I’ll suffocate", "I’ll go completely out of control", "I must leave at once") Phase 5    Panic He suggests the following if you get to level 4 or 5: Face the symptoms – don’t emotionally run from them. Accept what your body is doing – don’t fight against it. Float with the "wave" of the panic attack rather than forcing your way through it Allow time to pass – "I’ll just let my body do its thing.  This will pass." At these levels of panic, give yourself permission to retreat, float with the panic and allow it to run its course, call someone, move around if you need to, focus on simple objects around you, "ground" yourself by touching something solid, let out your emotions in a safe place, focus on breathing slowly and regularly, use positive self-talk, take a med if you need to. Take care, Liz

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in the middle of an anxiety attack.  I hate this..

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I can feel it coming on.  my heart is beating faster.  can’t breath. feeling of not being in control.  scared.  why am I getting these. i want it to go away

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – in the middle of an anxiety attack.  I hate this..

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BFrey, read my other response in this post also.  I don’t know if what you suffer is physical of psychological but I do know that you are suffering.  Many of us have been there, and getting the proper treatment can be a difficult pursuit if the symptoms can’t be diagnosed to any physical ailment.  You might ask your doctor for a test run of xanax just to see if it helps you with your symptoms, unless your Doctor feels that for some reason this may be detrimental to your health. If he did prescribe you a test run with xanax, you would know very quickly if it helps or not.     There is a few things we don’t know about you.  We don’t know your age, we don’t know your physical condition, nor do we know your family history.  These are things that need to be weighed also in regards to your ailment.  I can tell you that rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, and a feeling of impending doom can be anxiety.  Unfortunately,  it could be also be due to physical ailments. I wish the best of luck in your pursuit in this matter.  Please let us know how things turn out. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I want to thank all who so kindly responded to my plea for help last week.  I’m sorry for not following up sooner; the past week have been very rough emotionally and physically.  All blood work was normal, including thyroid. Chest x-ray, pulmonary function, EKG also normal.  The internist sent me for a stress EKG (ultrasound of heart, walk on treadmill to point of exhaustion, another ultrasound).  The stress part of this was normal.  However, he found another cardiac abnormality involving the aorta, which sadly does not acccount for my fatigue or shortness of breath.  I need to follow up with another cardiologist and get some more pretty uncomfortable tests done.  I feel like this is snowballing and am no closer to the cause of my fatigue and shortness of breath.  I am slightly better fatigue-wise; have been forcing myself to walk for 10 minutes a day and have been more active when possible. The shortness of breath is also reduced, but gets worse when I’m stressed out (today’s cardiac news sure didn’t help!!!).  I think I had my first real anxiety attack when visiting the in-laws for Easter; I walked into a room of about a dozen people, my heart started racing, and I had to leave the room for 1/2 hour to compose myself.  This type of reaction is new to me. I guess I really am an official member of ASAP now!  I’m meeting with the internist soon to discuss meds or maybe a change of dose; I’ve never taken xanax regularly except to help me sleep.  I wonder if this would be a good choice during this extra stressful time.  I think the Prozac is starting to help as the depression seems to be easing up a little bit.  Anyway, sorry for the *long* post; I really just wanted to thank you all for "being here" and providing this much needed support and understanding for me.  I hope to be able to help some of you someday as well.     Beverly

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I too suffer from Asthma. Soon after I started treatment  for my asthma, anxiety and panic attacks started. Initially for the adult onset persistent asthma  I was prescribed the upper end asthma meds; flovent 110  3 puffs 2x per day, serevent, accolate, and flovent for the nose.  This quickly made my suffering from the asthma better. I was feeling 100 percent for about a month, and then I started freaking out.  I was having shortness of breath continuous throughout the day, the crazy thing was that the harder I worked and the more physical I was the shortness of breath diminished.  It was when I would be at rest when this shortness of breath nagged me.  I would become panicked and thought I was dying or just something terrible was happening.  I assumed on several occasions I was having Asthma attacks and would take shots of albuterol, or in extremes, I would go to emergency and  they would give me breathing treatments.  This would only make matters worse.     Finally, after several visits to my doctor he finally concluded I was suffering from anxiety and panic attacks.  He prescribed xanax (.5meg 2x per day).  And vola, the anxiety was gone, the confusion was over, and my life got back to normal. Unfortunately it took months and a lot of wasted money on unnecessary visits to emergency.     That was 3 years ago, now I only take a minimum dosage of xanax, 2 – .25 megs per day.  I take one about 5pm and one right before bedtime.  I also take all my asthma meds and I am doing great.  I no longer have to differentiate between the asthma and the anxiety.  We are not the only ones that have had to live through the confusion and the lack of medical support to see the difference. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Anxiety and/or depression can most certainly cause fatigue and shortness of breath. The tests you have had make it even more likely that this is the case for you. I have severe asthma as well as anx./panic, so it is often difficult for me to tell what the symptoms are from. I have a small rather cheapo device called a spirometer, which I use to monitor my asthma. For some reason it requires a prescription, but you should have no problem getting one.     When I feel shortness of breath, without any evident cause, I use it. Very often I am having a hard time breathing, but the meter says I am well within my good range, then I know it is anxiety. Of course if it shows my breathing is actually bad, I take the appropriate asthma medicine. I think these little gadgets would be useful for many anx/panic people as well, to assure them that there is actually nothing physically wrong. Boyd : I want to thank all who so kindly responded to my plea for help last week. I’m : sorry for not following up sooner; the past week have been very rough : emotionally and physically.  All blood work was normal, including thyroid. : Chest x-ray, pulmonary function, EKG also normal.  The internist sent me for a : stress EKG (ultrasound of heart, walk on treadmill to point of exhaustion, : another ultrasound).  The stress part of this was normal.  However, he found : another cardiac abnormality involving the aorta, which sadly does not acccount : for my fatigue or shortness of breath.  I need to follow up with another : cardiologist and get some more pretty uncomfortable tests done.  I feel like : this is snowballing and am no closer to the cause of my fatigue and shortness : of breath.  I am slightly better fatigue-wise; have been forcing myself to walk : for 10 minutes a day and have been more active when possible. The shortness of : breath is also reduced, but gets worse when I’m stressed out (today’s cardiac : news sure didn’t help!!!).  I think I had my first real anxiety attack when : visiting the in-laws for Easter; I walked into a room of about a dozen people, : my heart started racing, and I had to leave the room for 1/2 hour to compose : myself.  This type of reaction is new to me. I guess I really am an official : member of ASAP now!  I’m meeting with the internist soon to discuss meds or : maybe a change of dose; I’ve never taken xanax regularly except to help me : sleep.  I wonder if this would be a good choice during this extra stressful : time.  I think the Prozac is starting to help as the depression seems to be : easing up a little bit.  Anyway, sorry for the *long* post; I really just : wanted to thank you all for "being here" and providing this much needed support : and understanding for me.  I hope to be able to help some of you someday as : well. :     Beverly :

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Anxiety and/or depression can most certainly cause fatigue and shortness of breath. The tests you have had make it even more likely that this is the case for you. I have severe asthma as well as anx./panic, so it is often difficult for me to tell what the symptoms are from. I have a small rather cheapo device called a spirometer, which I use to monitor my asthma. For some reason it requires a prescription, but you should have no problem getting one.     When I feel shortness of breath, without any evident cause, I use it. Very often I am having a hard time breathing, but the meter says I am well within my good range, then I know it is anxiety. Of course if it shows my breathing is actually bad, I take the appropriate asthma medicine. I think these little gadgets would be useful for many anx/panic people as well, to assure them that there is actually nothing physically wrong. Boyd

: I want to thank all who so kindly responded to my plea for help last week. I’m : sorry for not following up sooner; the past week have been very rough : emotionally and physically.  All blood work was normal, including thyroid. : Chest x-ray, pulmonary function, EKG also normal.  The internist sent me for a : stress EKG (ultrasound of heart, walk on treadmill to point of exhaustion, : another ultrasound).  The stress part of this was normal.  However, he found : another cardiac abnormality involving the aorta, which sadly does not acccount : for my fatigue or shortness of breath.  I need to follow up with another : cardiologist and get some more pretty uncomfortable tests done.  I feel like : this is snowballing and am no closer to the cause of my fatigue and shortness : of breath.  I am slightly better fatigue-wise; have been forcing myself to walk : for 10 minutes a day and have been more active when possible. The shortness of : breath is also reduced, but gets worse when I’m stressed out (today’s cardiac : news sure didn’t help!!!).  I think I had my first real anxiety attack when : visiting the in-laws for Easter; I walked into a room of about a dozen people, : my heart started racing, and I had to leave the room for 1/2 hour to compose : myself.  This type of reaction is new to me. I guess I really am an official : member of ASAP now!  I’m meeting with the internist soon to discuss meds or : maybe a change of dose; I’ve never taken xanax regularly except to help me : sleep.  I wonder if this would be a good choice during this extra stressful : time.  I think the Prozac is starting to help as the depression seems to be : easing up a little bit.  Anyway, sorry for the *long* post; I really just : wanted to thank you all for "being here" and providing this much needed support : and understanding for me.  I hope to be able to help some of you someday as : well. :     Beverly :

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That’s why you’re the MD and I’m just a computer nurd for hire. Ouch, my brain! I read that as:"computer nude for hire"…!<g Have I spotted a potential new market here, or what? Just what we need, nude nerds! ;

Question:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – hypertension is defined as chronic elevation of continuouslt high systolic and diastolic pressure-anxiety causes a reflex and refractory elevation that comes down as relaxation occurs. Hypertension means increased pressure of blood flow to and from the heart and has little to do with tension. Tension is  adynamic physiologic state that fluctuates hypertension does not. Any prudent medical practitioner takes many readings of bp before concluding the patient has the disease of hypertension and then treats it accordingly. Many people have anxiety with no elevation of bp or transitory elevations-some have wildly high fluctuating levels-but this is not the disease of hypertension and a differentiation is mandatory by the doctor LM

 OK. I didnt think it feasible that an anxiety state would not produce elevated BP in every case. I live and learn. regards,….FC

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Can somebody please please explain the difference and symptomps? Thanks… Alex

From  "Anxiety Disorders and Phobias – a Cognitive Perspective" by Aaron T. Beck. M.D. and Gary Emery, Ph.D. with Ruth L. Greenberg, Ph.D. (1985): "When a person has anxiety he experiences a subjectively unpleasant emotional state characterized by unpleasant subjective feelings, such as tension or nervousness, and by physiological symptoms like heart palpitations, tremor, nausea, and dizziness… Panic is an acute state of anxiety associated with other dramatic physiological, motor, and cognitive symptoms. The physiological correlations of panic are an intensified version of those of anxiety – that is, rapid pulse, dizziness, cold and profuse sweating, and tremor. In addition, one has a sense of impending catastrophe, pervasive inhibitions, and an overwhelming desire to flee or get help."  (pp. 9-10). -David-

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I have moderately high blood pressure mainly due to the asthma meds I must take.I take a couple of BP meds which keep my pressure quite normal, most of the time. The extra BP from anxiety/panic attacks does me no good at all. My heart, and blood vessels seem to be in pretty good shape, but they need to be! I have gone from a quite usual 138/68 to 210/105, and back as low as 128/58 in a 2 hour period, all with no reason at all except a panic attack. It sucks big time! Boyd

  Its interesting to note, that Hypertension or hi BP (the first name describes it so well) can be an early indication, can be,…that the individual is prone to anxiety. Your high figures Boyd are believe it or not close to mine at 20 before I was diagnosed with anxiety?? Just the mere fact I was attending a Physician ( a specialist in this country) jacked it up during the visit. You are not alone Boyd cheers,…..FC

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Alex, I think you have received several good responses here. I thought I might just ad what is listed in the DSM-IV regarding Panic Attacks. Panic attacks are listed under a section of the DSM called Anxiety Disorders. Technically there is no such term in the DSM as an "anxiety attack." However, even professionals use both terms to describe the same set of symptoms. The anxiety disorders listed in the DSM are as follows: (sorry if this has been posted already or if it more than you wanted to know) 1. Panic Attack: a discreet period in which there is the sudden onset of intense apprehension, fearfulness, or terror, often associated with feelings of impending doom. During these attacks, symptoms such as shortness of breath, palpitations, chest pain, or discomfort, choking or smothering sensations, and fear of "going crazy" or losing control are present. The thing about a Panic Attack is that is it is not a diagnosis in and of itself. It occurs in the context of several different Anxiety Disorders (e.g., Panic Disorder, Specific Phobia, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Acute Stress Disorder). There are three characteristic types of Panic Attacks with different relationships between the onset of the attack and the presence or absence of situational triggers: a) Unexpected (uncued) Panic Attacks: the onset of the attack seems to come out of the blue b) Situationally bound (cued) Panic Attacks: attack occurs almost immediately on exposure to, or in anticipation of an event (ex. seeing a snake triggers attack) c) situationally predisposed Panic Attacks: are more likely to occur on exposure to the situational cue or trigger, but are not invariably associated with the cue or happen immediately upon exposure (sometimes having an attack while driving a car, sometimes not, or sometimes it takes 30 minutes of driving before an attack occurs) (if that made sense ) 2. Agoraphobia: an anxiety about, or avoidance of, places or situations from which escape might be difficult (or embarrassing) or in which help may not be available in the event of having a Panic Attack or panic-like symptoms. 3. Panic Disorder With or Without Agoraphobia: characterized by recurrent unexpected Panic Attacks about which there is persistent concern. 4. Specific Phobia: characterized by clinically significant anxiety provoked by exposure to a specific feared object or situation, often leading to avoidance behavior. 5. Social Phobia: characterized by clinically significant anxiety provoked by exposure to certain types of social or performance situations, often leading to avoidance behavior. Other disorders listed, which I won’t define include Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Acute Stress Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Anxiety Disorder Due to a General Medical Condition, Substance Induced Anxiety Disorder and Anxiety Disorder Not Otherwise Specified.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Can somebody please please explain the difference and symptomps? Thanks… Alex

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have moderately high blood pressure mainly due to the asthma meds I must take.I take a couple of BP meds which keep my pressure quite normal, most of the time. The extra BP from anxiety/panic attacks does me no good at all. My heart, and blood vessels seem to be in pretty good shape, but they need to be! I have gone from a quite usual 138/68 to 210/105, and back as low as 128/58 in a 2 hour period, all with no reason at all except a panic attack. It sucks big time! Boyd  Its interesting to note, that Hypertension or hi BP (the first name describes it so well) can be an early indication, can be,…that the individual is prone to anxiety. Your high figures Boyd are believe it or not close to mine at 20 before I was diagnosed with anxiety?? Just the mere fact I was attending a Physician ( a specialist in this country) jacked it up during the visit. You are not alone Boyd cheers,…..FC

hypertension is defined as chronic elevation of continuouslt high systolic and diastolic pressure-anxiety causes a reflex and refractory elevation that comes down as relaxation occurs. Hypertension means increased pressure of blood flow to and from the heart and has little to do with tension. Tension is  adynamic physiologic state that fluctuates hypertension does not. Any prudent medical practitioner takes many readings of bp before concluding the patient has the disease of hypertension and then treats it accordingly. Many people have anxiety with no elevation of bp or transitory elevations-some have wildly high fluctuating levels-but this is not the disease of hypertension and a differentiation is mandatory by the doctor LM

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In my own case, a panic attack drives my blood pressure through the roof! I have a monitor and have watched it. Boyd

And that is a very real problem for those of us who have pre-existing blood pressure and or angina. I’m only 49 and due to  mega hi cholesterol had a coronary occlusion,…now a racing ticker can provoke angina,…depends on how ‘hard’ the beats are. All this anxiety is fun isnt it? cheers……FC

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I have moderately high blood pressure mainly due to the asthma meds I must take.I take a couple of BP meds which keep my pressure quite normal, most of the time. The extra BP from anxiety/panic attacks does me no good at all. My heart, and blood vessels seem to be in pretty good shape, but they need to be! I have gone from a quite usual 138/68 to 210/105, and back as low as 128/58 in a 2 hour period, all with no reason at all except a panic attack. It sucks big time! Boyd — "The cure for boredom is curiosity. There is no cure for curiosity." (Ellen Parr- author)

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – In my own case, a panic attack drives my blood pressure through the roof! I have a monitor and have watched it. Boyd And that is a very real problem for those of us who have pre-existing blood pressure and or angina. I’m only 49 and due to  mega hi cholesterol had a coronary occlusion,…now a racing ticker can provoke angina,…depends on how ‘hard’ the beats are. All this anxiety is fun isnt it? cheers……FC

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In my own case, a panic attack drives my blood pressure through the roof! I have a monitor and have watched it. Boyd — "The cure for boredom is curiosity. There is no cure for curiosity." (Ellen Parr- author)

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Can somebody please please explain the difference and symptomps? Thanks… Alex Alex , Panic is an extension of an anxiety attack. A panic attack is one of the most unpleasant experiences which doesnt actually involve true danger. In my experience they can be fast or slow in their action, but usualy slow (for me). Anxiety attacks, were a daily thing until medication. If I had to scale the difference, I’d place anxiety as a 3 or 4 compared to a hypothetical ‘10′ for panic.  As to symptoms, and this is a personal view only,..anxiety is a continual sense of low grade fear, complete with all the bodily sensations, both physical and mental: sense of something bad about to happen, waves of butterflys rising up in your stomach and chest, cramps from,…believe it or not my bowel, (great for constipation), heightened vigilence but no sweating. Panic is full blown physical symptoms accentuated, plus a racing heart, almost vomiting, and extremely unpleasant chest and stomach pain and cramps. Vision is stuffed up big time, with a ’slow motion with dettachment from reality experience’ is the best I can explain it. If someone talks to me I cant understand them as my mind is in hyperdrive flitting from one stimulous to another, both internal and external ( movements around me). Whoah, describing this is easy now as I haven’t had one for years, thanks to drugs cheers,……FC cheers,…..FC

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Can somebody please please explain the difference and symptomps? Thanks… Alex

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i  find that my panic attacks come with hyperventilation, fight or flight and blurred vision. my anxiety attacks bring dizzyness and tingling on the ends of my fingers.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Can somebody please please explain the difference and symptomps? Thanks… Alex

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Can somebody please please explain the difference and symptomps? Thanks… Alex

Alex , Panic is an extension of an anxiety attack. A panic attack is one of the most unpleasant experiences which doesnt actually involve true danger. In my experience they can be fast or slow in their action, but usualy slow (for me). Anxiety attacks, were a daily thing until medication. If I had to scale the difference, I’d place anxiety as a 3 or 4 compared to a hypothetical ‘10′ for panic.  As to symptoms, and this is a personal view only,..anxiety is a continual sense of low grade fear, complete with all the bodily sensations, both physical and mental: sense of something bad about to happen, waves of butterflys rising up in your stomach and chest, cramps from,…believe it or not my bowel, (great for constipation), heightened vigilence but no sweating. Panic is full blown physical symptoms accentuated, plus a racing heart, almost vomiting, and extremely unpleasant chest and stomach pain and cramps. Vision is stuffed up big time, with a ’slow motion with dettachment from reality experience’ is the best I can explain it. If someone talks to me I cant understand them as my mind is in hyperdrive flitting from one stimulous to another, both internal and external ( movements around me). Whoah, describing this is easy now as I haven’t had one for years, thanks to drugs cheers,……FC cheers,…..FC

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Thanks everyone for all the advice. On the MRI I am calling my Dr. today and see what he can do.          Thanks Lee ~wishing all of us many pain free days~

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Boy do I feel like a real coward!!!  I had to be put to sleep for the last two I had done.  I made it through an MRA with great difficulty. I just don’t put myself through it anymore, the very last time we tried Versed, nothing-doctor gave up and knocked me out.  Nothing they give me will knock the fear back enough for me to get in there, nothing, not even an open machine.  I just cannot do it. You all have a great day! Deanie – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –    Wow … it seems like I’m the exception.  I had no problems with the closed-type MRI machines at all.    The ‘plus’ side of the closed type MRI’s is that it’s a quicker way to get it done.   I guess I’m fortunate. — Harley Harley, A few years ago, I had dual closed MRIs back-to-back for neuro/seizure purposes.  The first was a regular MRI, the second involved injecting a rare earth element into my arm, & then proceeding with the MRI.  I just took about 30-40MG of valium, & it really made me dopey, I didn’t even squeeze the emergency bulb.  Course, after one & a half hours in the machine, I did have to piss like a race horse, but beyond that, it wasn’t too terrible.          With Love, Peace, & Concern,                   Albert, Mountain Removal Project Senior Engineer — Tis easier to go thru the eye of a needle, than the knee of an idol                         web    http://www.schmendrik.org —–= Posted via Newsfeeds.Com, Uncensored Usenet News =—– http://www.newsfeeds.com – The #1 Newsgroup Service in the World! —–==  Over 80,000 Newsgroups – 16 Different Servers! =—–

Response:

   Wow … it seems like I’m the exception.  I had no problems with the closed-type MRI machines at all.    The ‘plus’ side of the closed type MRI’s is that it’s a quicker way to get it done.   I guess I’m fortunate. — Harley

Harley, A few years ago, I had dual closed MRIs back-to-back for neuro/seizure purposes.  The first was a regular MRI, the second involved injecting a rare earth element into my arm, & then proceeding with the MRI.  I just took about 30-40MG of valium, & it really made me dopey, I didn’t even squeeze the emergency bulb.  Course, after one & a half hours in the machine, I did have to piss like a race horse, but beyond that, it wasn’t too terrible.          With Love, Peace, & Concern,                   Albert, Mountain Removal Project Senior Engineer — Tis easier to go thru the eye of a needle, than the knee of an idol                         web    http://www.schmendrik.org —–= Posted via Newsfeeds.Com, Uncensored Usenet News =—– http://www.newsfeeds.com – The #1 Newsgroup Service in the World! —–==  Over 80,000 Newsgroups – 16 Different Servers! =—–

Response:

I was thinking the same thing, Harley. I didn’t have any problems with the regular MRI machines that I was put into. They were noisy, and I could barely hear the radio in the headphones they gave me to listen to, but all went well all 5 times that I had them done. I am only claustrophobic in bathrooms that are Extremely small…closets, elevators and such don’t affect me (I think it had something to do with being in a holding cell when I was picked up as a runaway at age 14; ceramic tiles are all much the same) Anyway, you’re not the only one who had no problems, Harley. They are not fun, but I didn’t find it difficult, either. Take care, and have a very Happy New Year. Trailingvine   Wow … it seems like I’m the exception.  I had no problems with the closed-type MRI machines at all.   The ‘plus’ side of the closed type MRI’s is that it’s a quicker way to get it done.   I guess I’m fortunate.

http://communities.msn.com/TrailingvinesPlace A place to hang out and share All are invited! "Never let it be said I didn’t do the least that I could do." Hawkeye Pierce/M*A*S*H

Response:

I Went for an MRI yesterday of my lower spine and after getting on the table I could not gpo through with it I started sweeting and I started to have a little trouble breathing.

Question:

Raquel has posted this twice and it hasn`t shown up, so I am posting this for her. Hi Everyone, I thought I’d  let you know that I had a good appointment which lasted almost three hours with the Pulmonary Doc in reference to my Bronchitis. The results are in:  My Bronchitis will never go away.  That’s because I don’t have bronchitis.  I have Asthma.  I had a minor case of it as a baby but apparently it never went away.  I came home with two more inhalers (totaling three and I also have to get some blood work done ASAP at a Lab because my x-rays I took yesterday showed some funny looking stuff, as my Doc put it, and he needs to check that out.  So now, I’m like what else? Raquel

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Raquel has posted this twice and it hasn`t shown up, so I am posting this for her. Hi Everyone, I thought I’d  let you know that I had a good appointment which lasted almost three hours with the Pulmonary Doc in reference to my Bronchitis. The results are in:  My Bronchitis will never go away.  That’s because I don’t have bronchitis.  I have Asthma.  I had a minor case of it as a baby but apparently it never went away.  I came home with two more inhalers (totaling three and I also have to get some blood work done ASAP at a Lab because my x-rays I took yesterday showed some funny looking stuff, as my Doc put it, and he needs to check that out.  So now, I’m like what else? Raquel hi Raquel, we at ASAP will be thinking about you.  you hang in there and dont

worry. donny – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

Response:

Believe me, as a fellow asthmatic….it SUCKS, but it is manageable.  They finally got me on a med that works like GOLD for me.  Talk to your dr about singulair…it doesn’t interfere with any of my other meds and I literally haven’t had to use my inhalers unless I have a cold since I started on it! R

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Raquel has posted this twice and it hasn`t shown up, so I am posting this for her. Hi Everyone, I thought I’d  let you know that I had a good appointment which lasted almost three hours with the Pulmonary Doc in reference to my Bronchitis. The results are in:  My Bronchitis will never go away.  That’s because I don’t have bronchitis.  I have Asthma.  I had a minor case of it as a baby but apparently it never went away.  I came home with two more inhalers (totaling three and I also have to get some blood work done ASAP at a Lab because my x-rays I took yesterday showed some funny looking stuff, as my Doc put it, and he needs to check that out.  So now, I’m like what else? Raquel

Thank you Jackie! Hi Raquel! I feel so bad for you!  Are you feeling any better?  Please let us know how your other test results come out.  It isn’t enough to struggle with PD and then you have other problems to go along with it.  Please rest up! Hugs, Di

Response:

Hi Raquel, I use Bricanyl for my asthma and it does not interfere with my medication for anxiety and depression. (Alprazolam and Efexor XR). However my daughter who has asthma sometimes gets jittery if she needs to use her Ventolin. I know of several people who experience this jitteriness but it passes. I usually check with my pharmacist before I commence a new medication. Good luck, Meryl

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Guys, Now I’m posting from Deja. These servers are killing me.  I have a question. Does anyone know anything about asthma meds interfering with anxiety and depression meds? I just had a massive Anxiety Attack and me and my hubby were both quite scared. Some of it was from fatigue but we just aren’t sure. Any input would be appreciated. Thanks. Raquel Raquel has posted this twice and it hasn`t shown up, so I am posting this for her. Hi Everyone, I thought I’d  let you know that I had a good appointment which lasted almost three hours with the Pulmonary Doc in reference to my Bronchitis. The results are in:  My Bronchitis will never go away.  That’s because I don’t have bronchitis.  I have Asthma.  I had a minor case of it as a baby but apparently it never went away.  I came home with two more inhalers (totaling three and I also have to get some blood work done ASAP at a Lab because my x-rays I took yesterday showed some funny looking stuff, as my Doc put it, and he needs to check that out.  So now, I’m like what else? Raquel Before you buy.

Response:

Dear Rachel, ((((((((((((HUGS))))))))))) I know exactly what you are going through!!! I suffered bronchitis and even pluerisy (sp?) before they finally came to the conclusion that I had asthma! I have 2 inhalers right now.  Azmacort and albuterol.  Try to take it in stride.  Asthma is very treatable.  :) We just need to be careful when we get a cold….mine always fly into my chest seemingly overnight.  I am just now recovering from REAL bronchitis because of just such a thing.  I’ve had pnuemonia from it once as well. Be good to yourself and follow the inhaler directions!  You will feel MUCH Better!!!! Love, Katie – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Raquel has posted this twice and it hasn`t shown up, so I am posting this for her. Hi Everyone, I thought I’d  let you know that I had a good appointment which lasted almost three hours with the Pulmonary Doc in reference to my Bronchitis. The results are in:  My Bronchitis will never go away.  That’s because I don’t have bronchitis.  I have Asthma.  I had a minor case of it as a baby but apparently it never went away.  I came home with two more inhalers (totaling three and I also have to get some blood work done ASAP at a Lab because my x-rays I took yesterday showed some funny looking stuff, as my Doc put it, and he needs to check that out.  So now, I’m like what else? Raquel

– "A word to the wise ain’t necessary.  It’s the stupid who need the advice." —Will Rogers Before you buy.

Response:

Hi Guys, Now I’m posting from Deja. These servers are killing me.  I have a question. Does anyone know anything about asthma meds interfering with anxiety and depression meds? I just had a massive Anxiety Attack and me and my hubby were both quite scared. Some of it was from fatigue but we just aren’t sure. Any input would be appreciated. Thanks. Raquel – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Raquel has posted this twice and it hasn`t shown up, so I am posting this for her. Hi Everyone, I thought I’d  let you know that I had a good appointment which lasted almost three hours with the Pulmonary Doc in reference to my Bronchitis. The results are in:  My Bronchitis will never go away.  That’s because I don’t have bronchitis.  I have Asthma.  I had a minor case of it as a baby but apparently it never went away.  I came home with two more inhalers (totaling three and I also have to get some blood work done ASAP at a Lab because my x-rays I took yesterday showed some funny looking stuff, as my Doc put it, and he needs to check that out.  So now, I’m like what else? Raquel

Before you buy.

Response:

Question:

A little late on the response here, but you might want to stop by my site. I’m an asthma mom (he’s now and have set up a support site and discussion board for parents of asthmatics, especially infants. http://asthmatrack.org Jeanne

Response:

Nope.  I’m not a dart throwing or a drinker, but I also don’t sit in judgement on other people’s lifestyles.  Since I’m not living their life, I think it would be very presumptuous of me to declare there is a "parent priorities" problem at their home.  What was that saying about glass houses and another one about casting stones? Patrice

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Perhaps. In this particular instance, it shows a problem with the order of these two "parents’" priorities. I wonder if their beer and darts requirements are more important than their young daughter’s clean air requirements. Don’t worry – I certainly wasn’t insulting people who drink beer or play darts. Especially the sensitive ones. I’m non-confrontational. You?

Response:

Perhaps. In this particular instance, it shows a problem with the order of these two "parents’" priorities. I wonder if their beer and darts requirements are more important than their young daughter’s clean air requirements. Don’t worry – I certainly wasn’t insulting people who drink beer or play darts. Especially the sensitive ones. I’m non-confrontational. You?

Response:

I know another small child who has been diagnosed with asthma and has been drinking doctor-prescribed liquid proventil every stinking day for years now. She wheezes by day and by night. Her nose runs constantly. Her parents smoke cigarettes in the house by day and by night as they play darts and drink their beer. They have six pets – a snake, two kittens, a puppy and two fish.

Does this mean that throwing darts and drinking beer should be on their daughter’s list of triggers? Patrice

Response:

I don’t know if this will help, but here are some things I’ve encountered. Your child’s environment or predisposition and your diet could be involved. My son has several severe food allergies – to dairy, eggs, nuts, and a few fruits/veggies. Doctors didn’t believe it until he was two even though he’d gone to the emergency room as one big hive, vomiting and with a swollen throat TWICE in his first year (reacting to two separate foods). Fortunately, I figured out how to safely get him to age three, when they finally agreed to test him. When I was pregnant with him, I developed a severe cat allergy (I’d grown up with them) and allergy-induced asthma that happened only during fall and springtime or when I got near a cat. When it snowed or was hot I was fine! Doctors didn’t diagnose me until years later, even though I’d been hospitalized with terrible asthma attacks three times. When I was nursing my son, for the first year of his life, he would scream for two hours after I ate milk chocolate. Fortunately I didn’t eat it often and so it was easy for me to figure out. When my son was three, he had his tonsils and adnoids removed and tubes put in his ears. Before the operation, his breathing nearly woke the neighbors at night. People thought a man was snoring in his room. And he rattled slightly during the day and frequently had a runny nose. He had constant ear infections because he was too swollen from allergies to drain anything and sometimes after it rained, he’d get hives on his legs when they touched the grass. He was never around cigarette smoking. The operation and allergy testing proved success. Thank goodness for that specialist who helped us find a DRUGLESS program for him. Six times in the past two years (he is now almost 7), when he’s been nervous or upset about something like the night before the first day of first grade in a new school for instance, he’ll have what I believe is an anxiety attack and he’ll get an asthma-like cough and a little wheezing in his lungs at bed time. Doctors say, when it happens call them because of course he’s always in perfect health for doctors appointments and they’ve got to see it in order to believe it. And if it does happen without going away after a short wait, I will take him straight to the emergency room. I know the bad of asthma, and even the bad of an uninformed doctor. But anyway, it goes away if I get his mind on pleasant things or sing to him. REALLY. And only if I do this. And I repeat, it has only happened at nighttime, right before bed, when he’s slowed down and thinking. I know another small child who has been diagnosed with asthma and has been drinking doctor-prescribed liquid proventil every stinking day for years now. She wheezes by day and by night. Her nose runs constantly. Her parents smoke cigarettes in the house by day and by night as they play darts and drink their beer. They have six pets – a snake, two kittens, a puppy and two fish. Everyone is so different. Every case of asthma is different. According to the two good and helpful doctors I’ve talked to, among them are allergy-induced, pregancy-induced, and anxiety-induced. And babies CAN feel anxious, nervous and scared. Also, very importantly, moms know their babies better than anyone else. If you have a hunch, check it out on your own if you don’t get professional support right away, and don’t be discouraged if you’re waved off as being paranoid or overprotective or whatnot. Get more opinions, but don’t be afraid to form your own. Do what helps your child.

Response:

Most of the docs I work with would not be presenting a diagnosis to you of asthmas at this age.  In fact, most of the docs I work with will not make such a diagnosis until at least a year of age or a little older.  The most likely culprit is, indeed, RSV.  The treatment is essentially the same as for asthma , however.  We used to administer a treatment called Ribaviron, but it has been pretty much abandoned because of the side-effects, etc.   As for CF, yes, you should have that ruled out.  Do your research, but don’t let yourself get so invested with the illness  that you lose sight of the child.  Many parents of children with chronic illnesses end up with problems between themselves which only adds to family burdens, and in the cae of asthma, can actually cause more problems with exacerbations.  Family counseling from a compassionate therapist with experience in this area would be very useful. Scooby RCP, EMT-P Perinatal-Pediatric Respiratory Specialist This mail is a natural product.  The slight variations in spelling and grammar enhance its individual character and beauty and in no way are to be considered flaws or defects.

Response:

My 19-week-old son has been coughing, wheezing on expiration, has a high respiration (between 50 and 68) and is exclusively breastfed.  Symptoms began gradually a little over a month ago, and are now at a constant rate, including a "rattling" of mucus either in his adenoids or chest (doctors thus far disagree). He has been on a nebulizer with Proventil (.25 ml for three weeks) and Atrovent (1.25 ml for four days).  Chest x-ray was negative; pulmonologist suggested the possibility of Intel (sp).

Intal is a very safe drug for most; can be administered by nebulizer to infants. It’s a long acting preventor drug; Proventil (albuterol) is a short acting reliever drug.  Pediatrician and pulmonologist – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – are currently calling it RSV or adenovirus (though they add it’s slightly early in the season for these).  My husband, daughter and I have had respiratory infections in the past eight weeks. Braden’s symptoms practically vanish when he’s asleep, except for some coughing once in a while and a barely perceptible wheeze if you listen closely.  Almost immediately upon awakening and being picked up, the wheezing becomes a bit harsher and the "mucus rattle" starts (and is worse right after eating or having oral medication administered). He sometimes has periods of a whimpery, startled, staccato breathing during sleep, and infrequently starts crying inconsolably in his sleep. He spit up frequently (a little many times a day, as opposed to a lot; not projectile) which was diagnosed as mild reflux.  Keeping him upright helped, and spitting up is now only present infrequently, usually as the result of a hardy burp. He has always been somewhat gassy.  I have noted a correlation between extreme abdominal distress and my consumption of broccoli, which I have ceased eating for the time being. Does this sound like asthma?  Can anyone relate to this?  Could he be affected asmathically by a food allergen by foods I consume, and if so, should I eliminate one likely food at a time, or go on a very bland diet and add one by one?

I’ve read nursing mothers need to be careful what they eat to avoid sensitizing the infant to foods; for example avoid peanuts to avoid sensitizing the infant to peanuts.   We plan to consult an ENT specialist; the – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – pulmonologist says she wants us to rule out cystic fibrosis, however unlikely.  The nebulizer really doesn’t seem to help; merely loosens mucus and gives him more trouble with it — and cooler air seems to give him a harsher wheeze and trouble working around his mucus. We have oil heat (baseboard).  No history of asthma in either family, but family members on both sideshave hay fever allergies which vary in severity but generally have appeared later in life. Braden’s former pediatrician (just retired) thinks a mountain is being made out of a molehill and believes that my son’s large adenoids are the culprit, and the dire  predictions of a "long hard winter with him" and warnings to try as much as possible to minimize his exposure to crowds, esp. crowds of small children are much ado about nothing.  I am very conflicted and very confused, and will at least be happier with a definitive diagnosis. (Is such possible at 4.5 months old; is there a way to rule out asthma altogether, or eliminate most other things?) I was originally Oas per the post subject) going to request that someone send me the FAQ, but my husband just located it.  I would appreciate hearing from those of you with similar experiences and what the process of elimination was like and how things were managed. Christine

It’s difficult to diagnose asthma in infants; their airways are small and they may outgrow the problem. Link on infant asthma: http://www.ama-assn.org/aps/asthma/infant.htm What If Your Infant Has Asthma? JAMA http://www.ama-assn.org/special/asthma/treatmnt/guide/guidelin/comp3/… Treatment http://www.ama-assn.org/special/asthma/treatmnt/guide/guidelin/comp1/… Differential Diagnosis of Asthma Ellis

Response:

My 19-week-old son has been coughing, wheezing on expiration, has a high respiration (between 50 and 68) and is exclusively breastfed.  Symptoms began gradually a little over a month ago, and are now at a constant rate, including a "rattling" of mucus either in his adenoids or chest (doctors thus far disagree). He has been on a nebulizer with Proventil (.25 ml for three weeks) and Atrovent (1.25 ml for four days).  Chest x-ray was negative; pulmonologist suggested the possibility of Intel (sp).  Pediatrician and pulmonologist are currently calling it RSV or adenovirus (though they add it’s slightly early in the season for these).  My husband, daughter and I have had respiratory infections in the past eight weeks.   Braden’s symptoms practically vanish when he’s asleep, except for some coughing once in a while and a barely perceptible wheeze if you listen closely.  Almost immediately upon awakening and being picked up, the wheezing becomes a bit harsher and the "mucus rattle" starts (and is worse right after eating or having oral medication administered).   He sometimes has periods of a whimpery, startled, staccato breathing during sleep, and infrequently starts crying inconsolably in his sleep. He spit up frequently (a little many times a day, as opposed to a lot; not projectile) which was diagnosed as mild reflux.  Keeping him upright helped, and spitting up is now only present infrequently, usually as the result of a hardy burp. He has always been somewhat gassy.  I have noted a correlation between extreme abdominal distress and my consumption of broccoli, which I have ceased eating for the time being. Does this sound like asthma?  Can anyone relate to this?  Could he be affected asmathically by a food allergen by foods I consume, and if so, should I eliminate one likely food at a time, or go on a very bland diet and add one by one?  We plan to consult an ENT specialist; the pulmonologist says she wants us to rule out cystic fibrosis, however unlikely.  The nebulizer really doesn’t seem to help; merely loosens mucus and gives him more trouble with it — and cooler air seems to give him a harsher wheeze and trouble working around his mucus. We have oil heat (baseboard).  No history of asthma in either family, but family members on both sideshave hay fever allergies which vary in severity but generally have appeared later in life.   Braden’s former pediatrician (just retired) thinks a mountain is being made out of a molehill and believes that my son’s large adenoids are the culprit, and the dire  predictions of a "long hard winter with him" and warnings to try as much as possible to minimize his exposure to crowds, esp. crowds of small children are much ado about nothing.  I am very conflicted and very confused, and will at least be happier with a definitive diagnosis. (Is such possible at 4.5 months old; is there a way to rule out asthma altogether, or eliminate most other things?) I was originally Oas per the post subject) going to request that someone send me the FAQ, but my husband just located it.  I would appreciate hearing from those of you with similar experiences and what the process of elimination was like and how things were managed. Christine

Response:

Question:

Actually with chronic depression that would make sense.

It would? Also with Dexedrine- there is a known rebound effect causing depression when used at very high dosages. The same effect exists for amphetamines in general, the "crash" that follows a speed binge.

Eesh, well, I’ve never taken more than 15mg at a time. Normally the dosages involved are at abuse levels but I don’t see any reason someone couldn’t be particularly sensitive to it at normal therapeutic levels.

I usually am overly sensitive to just about *any* medication. I didn’t notice this rebound effect with Dex until recently. I haven’t been this depressed before either. I don’t think. Yeah, I was more bent on killing myself, but I was much less depressed then. Weird. It’s not listed as a side effect but other cognitive effects such as euphoria are so who knows, it’s possible.

I’ve seen the PDR write-up on Dex and I think it does say something about mental depression if it is stopped suddenly. I stopeed it pretty suddenly, but that was months ago and I was much too stressed about the asthma attack to be depressed. It’s only recently that I’ve been taking 5mg or 10mg and I notice this rebound effect. Well, before the crash back in Feburary too I think I noticed some rebound from too, but I’m not sure since I was very very sick. I looked at Wellbutrin and Dexedrine at www.mentalhealth.com They don’t seem to be a problem together. Both interact negatively with MAO inhibitors ( what doesn’t ) and Wellbutrin reacts with phenobarbital. Your doctor will have a better idea of the interactions.

Maybe, but he goes by an ancient PDR. Ah well. I suppose I could use the one at the library. — http://jenwolf.virtualave.net/

Response:

(Jen Snippage) I’m wondering if they can’t prescribe an antidepressant along with the Dex because it sounds like you need something else for the depression itself. You might want to check with the doc. "If a person has a choice between guilt and shame, they’ll go for the guilt every time." — Ken Rivers

Response:

Jen said: "It’s when it wears off that things (consistently) become/feel worse. " Jen that’s really interesting (well, I find all of your insights interesting, and I bet all the rational people here do, but this  one is particularly startling.) Why couldn’t there be an "emotional" rebound? The "regular" rebound is usually managed by adding a half dose as it’s wearing off. Have you tried that? Would your doctor "go" for it?

Response:

I usually am overly sensitive to just about *any* medication. I didn’t notice this rebound effect with Dex until recently. I haven’t been this depressed before either. I don’t think. Yeah, I was more bent on killing myself, but I was much less depressed then. Weird.

No, not thst weird.  Lots of people , once they "decide" actually lighten up as it seems that everything will then fall into place.  Of course, you know it doesn’t solve anything, but yout mood might well have improved. Jen, you’re so good at expressing these dark tunnels and valleys that many people feel and can’t articulate, even in their own heads. While it’s a struggle for anyone as sensitive as you are, still there must be something that can make it a little easier (and not a mini-wage McJob) Try a Medline search and then print out the stuff that’s newer than what your Dr. has at his feeble fingertips. Keep us posted. Kate Coe

Response:

Actually with chronic depression that would make sense. It would?

Yep. In any severe or chronic depression there is a component of anxiety. In some people it’s pronounced, in some it’s not, but it’s always there. It’s nothing like an anxiety attack but it’s what gives the depression it’s immediacy at times. You said that when you took Dexedrine you felt calmer. In some people Dexedrine can cause an anti-anxiety effect. It does in me, so do most of the amphetamines. So, when you stop the Dexedrine the anxiety returns and the depression seems more immediate and stronger than when you were on the Dexedrine. It’s hard to put it into words, you’re a lot better at that than I am, but *I* know what I mean….;-) Of course I could be completely wrong…… YMMV

Response:

What is the typical Wellbutrin dosage given for ADD?  I’m using it for depression along with St. John’s wort (with Doctor’s supervision).  I’m doing well with these for depression but haven’t found help for my ADD. JOhn Before you buy.

Response:

Dexedrine and depression.

Wat iz Dexdine?  Do u need a subscription?  Sumwon tell ma it hepp u focuis bedder?  Iz dis tru? Poopie Pants – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Question:  Can or does Dexedrine *cause* depression? Thoughts: I went for several weeks with no Dexedrine whatsoever, and still felt depressed. I do not feel so bad when the Dexedrine is in effect, is this because I am busy doing things or because the Dexedrine has changed something (neurotrasmitter levels or whatever)? On the other hand now that I think of it, sometimes when the Dex is in effect I feel worse or the same. Considering how I felt before ever taking Dex, that would be consistent with my normal state-of-being. However, Dex must have a rebound effect that isn’t as quick to happen as with Ritalin or Adderall because I definately feel worse almost every time it wears off. . .and it just sort of creeps up on me whereas with Ritalin and Adderall it happened very suddenly. Would an anti-depressant, such a Wellbutrin, fix that? I get *so* frustrated going without Dex because I can’t sit and read, can’t work on any programming or graphic designing or writing, can’t even finish washing the dishes. I just pace around aimlessly. Even as depressed as I supposedly am, I am still too hyperactive to even lie in bed all day (although I do keep going in there and trying). I have this problem with wanting things to be/get done *right now.* I’m unwilling or unable to slow down and take the inbetween steps. My usual dosage of Dex helped considerably with that. Now, every little set back is a major crisis to the point where doing any damned thing is a total waste of time. That’s depressing. Anyway, I’m worried that I will not be able to get back to the level of functioning I had. Yes, I still had problems and was depressed the whole time, but at least *some* things seemed worthwhile and I could get up and go to work/school every day and I had some plans/hope for improvement. Now that I think of it, I was really, really depressed last year and could not have gone on much longer even if I *hadn’t* had the asthma attack. That just made it all happen all at once, like an explosion. Or would it have got better with the right environment? I’ll never know. That’s why I wonder if Dexedrine can *cause* depression. There’s no doubt I was depressed before taking Dex, before taking Rit and anything else. Did Dex just make me more aware? Did Dex raise my level of functioning enough that I could see what a failure I’d been and how I was headed for even more? Sometimes ignorance really is bliss, imo. I’m still amazed at the amount I was able to learn and accomplish in the short time I was taking the drug. The whole ordeal reminds me of that story Flowers for Algernon. People who know me in real space are amazed at the change when I take Dex. I’m *much* calmer, considerably more rational, and much easier to get along with. But even with Dex and in the wrong environment I’m no better. And I’m always still depressed and never satisfied with my own accomplishments. Why? Now I just feel stuck. I know allergy shots take time to work, but I’m still stuck with all these asthma medicines. Will they interact negatively with Wellbutrin like they did with the Dexedrine? Should I take just the Wellbutrin and scrap Dex for now? Can they even be taken together? Maybe nothing will help. As it is, I have to wait a several more days to see my doctor. Several more days to change my mind. : — http://jenwolf.virtualave.net/

Visit my newsgroup alt.poopy-pants Askii Poopie for advice on just about anything. Some of it may actually be useful I’m mentally ill and I have a toilet plunger, any questions? Go to this link for a self-analysis http://www.laugh-your-ass-off.com/names.htm I love the smell of linseed oil. Poopie has now attained diety status, in the eyes of Rick_D from alt.support.attn-deficit anyway…. Here is an excerpt from one of his posts: Along comes Dr. Poopie Pants, himself who asked me Rick, Why U so inteerested in me? I guess the previous paragraph says why, and my gratitude for carrying that lesson home in a way I might not have is there. Really, if you look at what the good Dr says it is very insightful. Often in life I have a bias to those who do not present themselves in some way as socially acceptable. It shows me some form of art in practice and Dr. Poopie Pants, like Carlos Castenada’s Don Juan, Louis the 14th’s Voltaire, and Jesus Christ of Nazareth (a special story of faith) are of the same genre and quality.

Response:

"Wat iz Dexdine?  Do u need a subscription?  Sumwon tell ma it hepp u focuis bedder?  Iz dis tru?" It’s a suppository. Want me to send you some?

Response:

"Wat iz Dexdine?  Do u need a subscription?  Sumwon tell ma it hepp u focuis bedder?  Iz dis tru?" It’s a suppository. Want me to send you some?

Sure Susann Mrs Helperton Hears ma addreesss: Reverind Dr Poopie Pants 455 N. Galvin Parkway in Papago Park, Phoenix, Arizona 85008-3431 Phone: 602.273.1341 FAX: 602.273.7078 I incluyed ma fon numer an faxx incase ya wanna juss fax ma sum. Poopie Pants Visit my newsgroup alt.poopy-pants Askii Poopie for advice on just about anything. Some of it may actually be useful I’m mentally ill and I have a toilet plunger, any questions? Go to this link for a self-analysis http://www.laugh-your-ass-off.com/names.htm I love the smell of linseed oil. Poopie has now attained diety status, in the eyes of Rick_D from alt.support.attn-deficit anyway…. Here is an excerpt from one of his posts: Along comes Dr. Poopie Pants, himself who asked me Rick, Why U so inteerested in me? I guess the previous paragraph says why, and my gratitude for carrying that lesson home in a way I might not have is there. Really, if you look at what the good Dr says it is very insightful. Often in life I have a bias to those who do not present themselves in some way as socially acceptable. It shows me some form of art in practice and Dr. Poopie Pants, like Carlos Castenada’s Don Juan, Louis the 14th’s Voltaire, and Jesus Christ of Nazareth (a special story of faith) are of the same genre and quality.

Response:

I think the bottom line on psychotropic drugs is that the most effective drug and its dosage varies with the individual. A good doctor should know that and be willing to experiment. I take 150 mg of Wellbutrin SR when I wake up and then another 8 hours later. I haven’t seen many in the group who are taking just Wellbutrin for ADD. Please let me know how you are finding it. Regards, — Ian New to the group? www.cyber-mall.com/asad/ – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – What is the typical Wellbutrin dosage given for ADD?  I’m using it for depression along with St. John’s wort (with Doctor’s supervision).  I’m doing well with these for depression but haven’t found help for my ADD. JOhn Before you buy.

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Susan don’t forget to send him the hammer and chisel "easy applicator kit". — Ian New to the group? www.cyber-mall.com/asad/ – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – "Wat iz Dexdine?  Do u need a subscription?  Sumwon tell ma it hepp u focuis bedder?  Iz dis tru?" It’s a suppository. Want me to send you some?

Response:

FWIW, I’m told that some folks with ADHD become depressed after they go on meds not because of any direct effect of the meds but because they realize how much work they are going to have to do to get to where they want to be. — — — John Reply to jclarke at eye bee em dot net

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I don’t think it *causes* depression unless abused… but it can aggravate depression, and it can make one more aware of depressed feelings, which of course are very painful. It’s a universal "alerter" — everything becomes more obvious, including emotional feelings. I dunno, I really think it’s more some sort of rebound effect and I was depressed before ever taking it and the depression just continued and got worse for other reasons. Thing is, on Dex my emotions are much smoother and calmer. It’s when it wears off that things (consistently) become/feel worse. And of course in the wrong sort of environment, like I was in last year, nothing helps me emotionally. I just don’t know for sure, though. I do know one thing for certain: I’ve never felt more "alert" with Dexedrine. I’ve definately felt more rational and mentally organized, but never more alert. In fact, there were many times when I felt *less* alert after taking Dex and simply fell asleep. — http://jenwolf.virtualave.net/

Response:

Why couldn’t there be an "emotional" rebound?

It’s odd because I did not experience it when I was taking considerably more Dex. The "regular" rebound is usually managed by adding a half dose as it’s wearing off. Have you tried that? Would your doctor "go" for it?

Yeah, it’s a good plan, but I’ve found that I can’t tolerate any more than 10mg perday because of side effects associated with these asthma medications. Come to think of it, maybe that’s what’s causing the effects of Dex to feel different. — http://jenwolf.virtualave.net/

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Yep. In any severe or chronic depression there is a component of anxiety. In some people it’s pronounced, in some it’s not, but it’s always there. It’s nothing like an anxiety attack but it’s what gives the depression it’s immediacy at times. You said that when you took Dexedrine you felt calmer. In some people Dexedrine can cause an anti-anxiety effect. It does in me, so do most of the amphetamines.

I wouldn’t call it anxiety, but maybe I don’t know the definition of anxiety. I’m not anxious at all anyway. The feeling is like a severe pain that slowly spreads all over the inside until even my stomach hurts. So, when you stop the Dexedrine the anxiety returns and the depression seems more immediate and stronger than when you were on the Dexedrine.

I still wouldn’t call it anxiety, but yeah that’s about it. It’s hard to put it into words, you’re a lot better at that than I am, but *I* know what I mean….;-) Of course I could be completely wrong…… YMMV

Shrug. Maybe it’s something that came along with these asthma meds and Dex mixing. I’m just worried that I will never be able to take Dex again and lose everything I worked for. Right now I can’t stop the asthma meds, and I don’t know when I will be able to stop them or even cut them down. The last time I took allergy shots it took more than a year for them to really start working. Sigh. — http://jenwolf.virtualave.net/

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Jen, you’re so good at expressing these dark tunnels and valleys that many people feel and can’t articulate, even in their own heads. While it’s a struggle for anyone as sensitive as you are, still there must be something that can make it a little easier (and not a mini-wage McJob) Try a Medline search and then print out the stuff that’s newer than what your Dr. has at his feeble fingertips. Keep us posted. Kate Coe

Thanks. — http://jenwolf.virtualave.net/

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J Clarke said: "FWIW, I’m told that some folks with ADHD become depressed after they go on meds not because of any direct effect of the meds but because they realize how much work they are going to have to do to get to where they want to be." Another common issue down that road for adults is a sense of loss over what might have been had they gotten treatment earlier, not been "blessed" with this disorder, etc.

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Jen said: " The "regular" rebound is usually managed by adding a half dose as it’s wearing off. Have you tried that? Would your doctor "go" for it?

Yeah, it’s a good plan, but I’ve found that I can’t tolerate any more than 10mg perday because of side effects associated with these asthma medications. Come to think of it, maybe that’s what’s causing the effects of Dex to feel different." Ohhh durn… that is a difficult combination. Well, all I can do is cross my fingers with you — and hope you continue to post. I bet all the rational people here enjoy your posts as much as I do.  

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Yep. In any severe or chronic depression there is a component of anxiety. In some people it’s pronounced, in some it’s not, but it’s always there. It’s nothing like an anxiety attack but it’s what gives the depression it’s immediacy at times. You said that when you took Dexedrine you felt calmer. In some people Dexedrine can cause an anti-anxiety effect. It does in me, so do most of the amphetamines. I wouldn’t call it anxiety, but maybe I don’t know the definition of anxiety. I’m not anxious at all anyway. The feeling is like a severe pain that slowly spreads all over the inside until even my stomach hurts.

The definition of anxiety- outside of acute anxiety attacks is: painful or apprehensive uneasiness of mind

That’s why I said it was hard to describe. The anxiety I mean doesn’t feel like panic. I think that despair would be a better comparison. Despair has a strong anxiety component to it, that’s why it feels immediate. Shrug. Maybe it’s something that came along with these asthma meds and Dex mixing. I’m just worried that I will never be able to take Dex again and lose everything I worked for. Right now I can’t stop the asthma meds, and I don’t know when I will be able to stop them or even cut them down. The last time I took allergy shots it took more than a year for them to really start working. Sigh.

I wouldn’t worry too much about the asthma meds until you talk to your doctor. It still sounds to me as if the Dexedrine is interacting with the depression. If you can do something with the depression the Dexedrine problem should take care of itself.

Response:

Yes, any stimulant can "cause" depression as one withdraws from it.  Best not to use this med on a child with depressive mood disorder.  By the way, stimulants were used as the first antidepressants at the turn of (last) century as they DO elevate the mood, but unfortuneately only for a short time and then bigger problems return.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Dexedrine and depression. Question:  Can or does Dexedrine *cause* depression? Thoughts: I went for several weeks with no Dexedrine whatsoever, and still felt depressed. I do not feel so bad when the Dexedrine is in effect, is this because I am busy doing things or because the Dexedrine has changed something (neurotrasmitter levels or whatever)? On the other hand now that I think of it, sometimes when the Dex is in effect I feel worse or the same. Considering how I felt before ever taking Dex, that would be consistent with my normal state-of-being. However, Dex must have a rebound effect that isn’t as quick to happen as with Ritalin or Adderall because I definately feel worse almost every time it wears off. . .and it just sort of creeps up on me whereas with Ritalin and Adderall it happened very suddenly. Would an anti-depressant, such a Wellbutrin, fix that? I get *so* frustrated going without Dex because I can’t sit and read, can’t work on any programming or graphic designing or writing, can’t even finish washing the dishes. I just pace around aimlessly. Even as depressed as I supposedly am, I am still too hyperactive to even lie in bed all day (although I do keep going in there and trying). I have this problem with wanting things to be/get done *right now.* I’m unwilling or unable to slow down and take the inbetween steps. My usual dosage of Dex helped considerably with that. Now, every little set back is a major crisis to the point where doing any damned thing is a total waste of time. That’s depressing. Anyway, I’m worried that I will not be able to get back to the level of functioning I had. Yes, I still had problems and was depressed the whole time, but at least *some* things seemed worthwhile and I could get up and go to work/school every day and I had some plans/hope for improvement. Now that I think of it, I was really, really depressed last year and could not have gone on much longer even if I *hadn’t* had the asthma attack. That just made it all happen all at once, like an explosion. Or would it have got better with the right environment? I’ll never know. That’s why I wonder if Dexedrine can *cause* depression. There’s no doubt I was depressed before taking Dex, before taking Rit and anything else. Did Dex just make me more aware? Did Dex raise my level of functioning enough that I could see what a failure I’d been and how I was headed for even more? Sometimes ignorance really is bliss, imo. I’m still amazed at the amount I was able to learn and accomplish in the short time I was taking the drug. The whole ordeal reminds me of that story Flowers for Algernon. People who know me in real space are amazed at the change when I take Dex. I’m *much* calmer, considerably more rational, and much easier to get along with. But even with Dex and in the wrong environment I’m no better. And I’m always still depressed and never satisfied with my own accomplishments. Why? Now I just feel stuck. I know allergy shots take time to work, but I’m still stuck with all these asthma medicines. Will they interact negatively with Wellbutrin like they did with the Dexedrine? Should I take just the Wellbutrin and scrap Dex for now? Can they even be taken together? Maybe nothing will help. As it is, I have to wait a several more days to see my doctor. Several more days to change my mind. : — http://jenwolf.virtualave.net/

Response:

"Chalon" said "Yes, any stimulant can "cause" depression as one withdraws from it.  Best not to use this med on a child with depressive mood disorder." While anti-depressants can sometimes aggravate depression, just as often in the person with ADHD they help relieve it, because the depression stems at least partly from the struggles with the ADHD. I don’t agree with this person’s advice. I think if a person has both ADHD and depression, treating only one is like having two broken legs, putting one in a cast and ignoring the other, and calling it an improvement. We don’t have to agree of course. That’s my take on it. Disclaimer: if anyone is offended by my post please make sure you’re not reading in between the lines and reacting to something I didn’t actually say first. Thanks.

Response:

It depends on how depressed the person is.  Naturally depression can be life-threatening more often than ADD.  On that basis treatment of depression could be more emergent, while ADD is a chronic condition.  I am assuming that the depression is "caused" or significantly exacerbates the depression – again if the depression is major, it may be best to stop the stimulant, at least until the depression is managed.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – "Chalon" said "Yes, any stimulant can "cause" depression as one withdraws from it.  Best not to use this med on a child with depressive mood disorder." While anti-depressants can sometimes aggravate depression, just as often in the person with ADHD they help relieve it, because the depression stems at least partly from the struggles with the ADHD. I don’t agree with this person’s advice. I think if a person has both ADHD and depression, treating only one is like having two broken legs, putting one in a cast and ignoring the other, and calling it an improvement. We don’t have to agree of course. That’s my take on it. Disclaimer: if anyone is offended by my post please make sure you’re not reading in between the lines and reacting to something I didn’t actually say first. Thanks.

Response:

Dexedrine and depression. Question:  Can or does Dexedrine *cause* depression? Thoughts: I went for several weeks with no Dexedrine whatsoever, and still felt depressed. I do not feel so bad when the Dexedrine is in effect, is this because I am busy doing things or because the Dexedrine has changed something (neurotrasmitter levels or whatever)? On the other hand now that I think of it, sometimes when the Dex is in effect I feel worse or the same. Considering how I felt before ever taking Dex, that would be consistent with my normal state-of-being. However, Dex must have a rebound effect that isn’t as quick to happen as with Ritalin or Adderall because I definately feel worse almost every time it wears off. . .and it just sort of creeps up on me whereas with Ritalin and Adderall it happened very suddenly. Would an anti-depressant, such a Wellbutrin, fix that? I get *so* frustrated going without Dex because I can’t sit and read, can’t work on any programming or graphic designing or writing, can’t even finish washing the dishes. I just pace around aimlessly. Even as depressed as I supposedly am, I am still too hyperactive to even lie in bed all day (although I do keep going in there and trying). I have this problem with wanting things to be/get done *right now.* I’m unwilling or unable to slow down and take the inbetween steps. My usual dosage of Dex helped considerably with that. Now, every little set back is a major crisis to the point where doing any damned thing is a total waste of time. That’s depressing. Anyway, I’m worried that I will not be able to get back to the level of functioning I had. Yes, I still had problems and was depressed the whole time, but at least *some* things seemed worthwhile and I could get up and go to work/school every day and I had some plans/hope for improvement. Now that I think of it, I was really, really depressed last year and could not have gone on much longer even if I *hadn’t* had the asthma attack. That just made it all happen all at once, like an explosion. Or would it have got better with the right environment? I’ll never know. That’s why I wonder if Dexedrine can *cause* depression. There’s no doubt I was depressed before taking Dex, before taking Rit and anything else. Did Dex just make me more aware? Did Dex raise my level of functioning enough that I could see what a failure I’d been and how I was headed for even more? Sometimes ignorance really is bliss, imo. I’m still amazed at the amount I was able to learn and accomplish in the short time I was taking the drug. The whole ordeal reminds me of that story Flowers for Algernon. People who know me in real space are amazed at the change when I take Dex. I’m *much* calmer, considerably more rational, and much easier to get along with. But even with Dex and in the wrong environment I’m no better. And I’m always still depressed and never satisfied with my own accomplishments. Why? Now I just feel stuck. I know allergy shots take time to work, but I’m still stuck with all these asthma medicines. Will they interact negatively with Wellbutrin like they did with the Dexedrine? Should I take just the Wellbutrin and scrap Dex for now? Can they even be taken together? Maybe nothing will help. As it is, I have to wait a several more days to see my doctor. Several more days to change my mind. : — http://jenwolf.virtualave.net/

Response:

"Dexedrine and depression. Question:  Can or does Dexedrine *cause* depression?" I don’t think it *causes* depression unless abused… but it can aggravate depression, and it can make one more aware of depressed feelings, which of course are very painful. It’s a universal "alerter" — everything becomes more obvious, including emotional feelings.

Response:

I don’t think it *causes* depression unless abused… but it can aggravate depression, and it can make one more aware of depressed feelings, which of course are very painful. It’s a universal "alerter" — everything becomes more obvious, including emotional feelings.

I dunno, I really think it’s more some sort of rebound effect and I was depressed before ever taking it and the depression just continued and got worse for other reasons. Thing is, on Dex my emotions are much smoother and calmer. It’s when it wears off that things (consistently) become/feel worse. And of course in the wrong sort of environment, like I was in last year, nothing helps me emotionally. I just don’t know for sure, though. I do know one thing for certain: I’ve never felt more "alert" with Dexedrine. I’ve definately felt more rational and mentally organized, but never more alert. In fact, there were many times when I felt *less* alert after taking Dex and simply fell asleep. — http://jenwolf.virtualave.net/

Response:

I dunno, I really think it’s more some sort of rebound effect and I was depressed before ever taking it and the depression just continued and got worse for other reasons. Thing is, on Dex my emotions are much smoother and calmer. It’s when it wears off that things (consistently) become/feel worse. And of course in the wrong sort of environment, like I was in last year, nothing helps me emotionally. I just don’t know for sure, though.

Actually with chronic depression that would make sense. Also with Dexedrine- there is a known rebound effect causing depression when used at very high dosages. The same effect exists for amphetamines in general, the "crash" that follows a speed binge. Normally the dosages involved are at abuse levels but I don’t see any reason someone couldn’t be particularly sensitive to it at normal therapeutic levels. It’s not listed as a side effect but other cognitive effects such as euphoria are so who knows, it’s possible. I do know one thing for certain: I’ve never felt more "alert" with Dexedrine. I’ve definately felt more rational and mentally organized, but never more alert. In fact, there were many times when I felt *less* alert after taking Dex and simply fell asleep.

I looked at Wellbutrin and Dexedrine at www.mentalhealth.com They don’t seem to be a problem together. Both interact negatively with MAO inhibitors ( what doesn’t ) and Wellbutrin reacts with phenobarbital. Your doctor will have a better idea of the interactions.

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Question:

I would love to hear from any asthmatics who also have anxiety disorder and/or pd. I have both, and the fear of an asthma attack can bring on an anxiety attack, and they feed eachother. I always seem to "come out" of an anxiety attack, and work closely with my doctor on my asthma. I would love to correspond with other asthmatics. -James

Response:

Hi James, I am also an asthmatic and PA sufferer.  Please e-mail me if still interested. I’d love to correspond with you. Martha – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I would love to hear from any asthmatics who also have anxiety disorder and/or pd. I have both, and the fear of an asthma attack can bring on an anxiety attack, and they feed eachother. I always seem to "come out" of an anxiety attack, and work closely with my doctor on my asthma. I would love to correspond with other asthmatics. -James

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well, im new here and i just started reading posts…this one caught my attention b/c recently i have started having panic attacks along w/ asthma attacks…i caught a cold during finals week in may so i went home for the weekend…i guess the cold moved into my chest b/c i ended up not being able to breathe very well…well, we had some probs w/ my teenaged-step-brother and end up calling the cops (something i’ve found to be a trigger) and i ended up having a major asthma attack as we were sitting in the parking lot of sheriff’s dept. (we were getting his bike back)…there have been a few other times, where i’ve woken up from nightmares having an asthma attack…its all kinda strange to me… Kym

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  Hi James,    I’m a severe asthmatic. The anxiety is basically new to me and i’m having trouble telling the difference from the two. Since my only anxiety symtom is shortness of breath.My pulmonary dr. can’t help me either he says alot of asthmatics have anxiety and bronchial dialators are one of the reasons most of us have it.I guess it causes problem in your nervous system. Keep in touch.      Randee

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well, im new here and i just started reading posts…this one caught my attention b/c recently i have started having panic attacks along w/ asthma attacks…i caught a cold during finals week in may so i went home for the weekend…i guess the cold moved into my chest b/c i ended up not being able to breathe very well…well, we had some probs w/ my teenaged-step-brother and end up calling the cops (something i’ve found to be a trigger) and i ended up having a major asthma attack as we were sitting in the parking lot of sheriff’s dept. (we were getting his bike back)…there have been a few other times, where i’ve woken up from nightmares having an asthma attack…its all kinda strange to me… Kym

Hi Kym, Welcome to ASAP!! Have you been to your doctor about these asthma attacks? Could you be hyperventilating, which is very common during a panic attack? There is help for both anxiety and asthma, you don`t need to suffer like this. If you do have asthma you might need medication. Taking care of both these disorders is imperative, because they fuel  each other. You get your asthma under control, and it will help your anxiety, you get your anxiety under contol and it helps your asthma. Take care!! Jackie

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well, i have been to the doc over the asthma attacks…he gave me an inhaler (im glad i can finally use them correctly w/o having meds sprited in the back of my throat)…now that i have the inhaler it helps b/c when i have an attack i can find it…i have also tried to go to therapy for my PD, but it didn’t really work for me…i haven’t been back…i have been doing some "spiritual" therapy w/ a friend of mine…he is a big help…im actually glad i got pressured into going to retreat =) Kym – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Kym, Welcome to ASAP!! Have you been to your doctor about these asthma attacks? Could you be hyperventilating, which is very common during a panic attack? There is help for both anxiety and asthma, you don`t need to suffer like this. If you do have asthma you might need medication. Taking care of both these disorders is imperative, because they fuel  each other. You get your asthma under control, and it will help your anxiety, you get your anxiety under contol and it helps your asthma. Take care!! Jackie

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i have asthma and it has just gotten worse in the last 10 years…..write me back and we can discuss it rose LOOK FOR THE RAINBOW IN EACH NEW DAY

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Question:

Hi Im  Donna from Toronto Canada ive felt the same even worse with shakey nerves,slight confusion, chest tightness, cold hands..  boy i wish it would go away.. we are not alone with this..I take lorazzepam which is a very mild sedative with no side affects that ive known.. 1 mg  a day or as needed for 4 years it seems to help me greatly.. take care – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, I’m new. I am 36 y/o and have been experiencing a breathing problem for 1 1/2 yrs.  It feels like I can’t get a good breath in my lungs.  I lean back, try to open my chest up, but no luck.  I went to my doctor who did lung x ray and  EKG and all came back fine.  (I never smoked)  He said it was stress/anxiety.  Went to a psychiatrist who said they were panic attacks.  The breathing problem doesn’t come on suddenly, nor does it surround a certain event.  I could be doing the most relaxing or unimportant thing and I will notice that I can’t breath right.  I did experiance some clinical depression this summer.  Drs want me to go on anti depressants to help the breathing.  Can it?  This is the basics.  Please help.  I never knew there were so many people dealing with the anxiety, depression, etc. I don’t feel so alone anymore.  Whew!  Thanks.

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My anxiety condition started this way.  I thought I was having a asthma attack and went to the ER.  Once I got there they gave me a shot….ativan I think.  After the shot I felt fine.  I couldnt believe it was a anxiety attack…or related symptom.  I would definatly make sure this is the case before ruling out a medical problem but if you find it to indeed be anxiety dont panic.  There are treatments for it and seeing your doctor like you are doing is the best thing you can do right now.  Hope this helps. Xanman – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, I’m new. I am 36 y/o and have been experiencing a breathing problem for 1 1/2 yrs.  It feels like I can’t get a good breath in my lungs.  I lean back, try to open my chest up, but no luck.  I went to my doctor who did lung x ray and  EKG and all came back fine.  (I never smoked)  He said it was stress/anxiety.  Went to a psychiatrist who said they were panic attacks.  The breathing problem doesn’t come on suddenly, nor does it surround a certain event.  I could be doing the most relaxing or unimportant thing and I will notice that I can’t breath right.  I did experiance some clinical depression this summer.  Drs want me to go on anti depressants to help the breathing.  Can it?  This is the basics.  Please help.  I never knew there were so many people dealing with the anxiety, depression, etc. I don’t feel so alone anymore.  Whew!  Thanks.

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Hi, I’m new. I am 36 y/o and have been experiencing a breathing problem for 1 1/2 yrs.  It feels like I can’t get a good breath in my lungs.  I lean back, try to open my chest up, but no luck.  I went to my doctor who did lung x ray and  EKG and all came back fine.  (I never smoked)  He said it was stress/anxiety.  Went to a psychiatrist who said they were panic attacks.  The breathing problem doesn’t come on suddenly, nor does it surround a certain event.  I could be doing the most relaxing or unimportant thing and I will notice that I can’t breath right.  I did experiance some clinical depression this summer.  Drs want me to go on anti depressants to help the breathing.  Can it?  This is the basics.  Please help.  I never knew there were so many people dealing with the anxiety, depression, etc.  I don’t feel so alone anymore.  Whew!  Thanks.

 Well I am not a doctor but I wouldn’t call them panic attacks though they very likely are anxiety related..Depression with anxiety is a common enough thing and yes, ADs could quite possibly help you. You are not at all alone. Most anti-depressants can also reduce anxiety although there are a few I would avoid, Wellbutrin off the top of my head tends to worsen anxiety and panic problems. You may not be depressed now that you are aware of but often anxiety and depression go hand in hand and take turns being a nuisance, and often one anti-depressant alone can take care of both for you. The hardest part for most people is finding out which one works best for them with the least side-effects. I wish you luck, and hope you post and let us know how it goes May — "Believe me! The secret of reaping the greatest fruitfulness and the greatest enjoyment from life is to live dangerously!"      -                Nietzsche

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Hi, I’m new. I am 36 y/o and have been experiencing a breathing problem for 1 1/2 yrs.  It feels like I can’t get a good breath in my lungs.  I lean back, try to open my chest up, but no luck.  I went to my doctor who did lung x ray and  EKG and all came back fine.  (I never smoked)  He said it was stress/anxiety.  Went to a psychiatrist who said they were panic attacks.  The breathing problem doesn’t come on suddenly, nor does it surround a certain event.  I could be doing the most relaxing or unimportant thing and I will notice that I can’t breath right.  I did experiance some clinical depression this summer.  Drs want me to go on anti depressants to help the breathing.  Can it?  This is the basics.  Please help.  I never knew there were so many people dealing with the anxiety, depression, etc.  I don’t feel so alone anymore.  Whew!  Thanks.

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Hi, I’m new. I am 36 y/o and have been experiencing a breathing problem for 1 1/2 yrs.  It feels like I can’t get a good breath in my lungs.  I lean back, try to open my chest up, but no luck.  I went to my doctor who did lung x ray and  EKG and all came back fine.  (I never smoked)  He said it was stress/anxiety.  Went to a psychiatrist who said they were panic attacks.  The breathing problem doesn’t come on suddenly, nor does it surround a certain event.  I could be doing the most relaxing or unimportant thing and I will notice that I can’t breath right.  I did experiance some clinical depression this summer.  Drs want me to go on anti depressants to help the breathing.  Can it?  This is the basics.  Please help.  I never knew there were so many people dealing with the anxiety, depression, etc.  I don’t feel so alone anymore.  Whew!  Thanks.

Elizabeth!  Get another doc and psych and fast! Breathing problems alone do not a panic attack make. Could simply be allergies or a mild form of asthma which would NOT show up on X-rays or EKGs.  Anxiety is worrying, a sense of unease or fearfulness. A panic attack includes at least intense terror for unknown reason, fear of dying – losing control -going crazy and includes at least 3 more of these (and I’m probably missing some): Tightness of chest/difficulty breathing/hyperventilating Numbness or tingling sensations in limbs and hands Racing, pounding heartbeat/palpitations Hot and cold sweats Dizziness Sense of unreality/feeling "outside" of one’s self Stomach discomfort Weakness and or trembling I urge you to get a second opinion before accepting treatment and to also educate yourself Anxiety, Panic, Depression and your own personal symptoms as you MUST (I think everyone here can agree) take active participation in your own recovery. Best wishes!  Kathryn

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Hi, I’m new. I am 36 y/o and have been experiencing a breathing problem for 1 1/2 yrs.  It feels like I can’t get a good breath in my lungs.  I lean back, try to open my chest up, but no luck.  I went to my doctor who did lung x ray and  EKG and all came back fine.  (I never smoked)  He said it was stress/anxiety.  Went to a psychiatrist who said they were panic attacks.  The breathing problem doesn’t come on suddenly, nor does it surround a certain event.  I could be doing the most relaxing or unimportant thing and I will notice that I can’t breath right.  I did experiance some clinical depression this summer.  Drs want me to go on anti depressants to help the breathing.  Can it?  This is the basics.  Please help.  I never knew there were so many people dealing with the anxiety, depression, etc.  I don’t feel so alone anymore.  Whew!  

Hi Elizabeth, Welcome to ASAP! Your anxiety symptom is "difficulty" breathing, mine is dizziness and being off-balanced. I also had a few attacks of being dizzy, when I was in a good mood and feeling no anxiety. After having a few attacks like this, I started anticipating these dizzy spells, and that constant worrying about them, made them happen frequently, and increased my anxiety level dramatically. Yes, anti-depressants can help. I was put on Paxil, and was skeptical that my dizzy spells would go away.What the anti-depressants are suppose to do, is lower your anxiety, and when your anxiety is at a lower level, your bodily sensations start diminishing. It doesn`t happen overnight, it can take up to 8 weeks for the anti-depressant to kick in. And if you decide to go for the anti-depressant, make sure you start at a very low dose, wean on it slowly and have a benzodiazepine to help during the weaning process. It is common to have a  "temporary" increase in anxiety while weaning on the anti-depressant. But, if you start the med at a low dose, take your time and have a benzo, if should be okay. By the way, I have been on Paxil for a year, and  on rare occassion have a slight dizzy spell. I don`t even think about being dizzy any more, and my anxiety level is nice and low. Good Luck!!! Jackie ~~Three grand essentials to happiness in this life are something to do, something to love, and something to hope for.~~