Crippling Anxiety...Anyone else??

Hi and thanks for opening this and reading. 

OK...recently I landed in the hospital overnight AGAIN for observation in the cardiac ward.  I have family history that makes the doctors concerned and I had shooting pains from chest to jaw to brain 3 times in an hour and a half this past Monday.  They said my heart is very strong and that I did not have a heart attack.  I underwent cardiac enzyme tests and a stress test with nuclear medicine and treadmill then imaging of the cardiac muscle.  All is fine.

What I have going on, and do struggle with, is PMDD (Premenstral Disforic Disorder) probably misspelled that!  I also have genetically lower seratonin levels than most folks, add that to any additional stress and well, I'm a wreck like a vibrating bowl of jello for a few days.  I am on SSRI's (you might recognize it as seratonin meds) and have them enhanced during 10 days of my monthly cycle.

I tell you all that to ask...is there anyone else suffering from this?  It is not just a phase.  I have had this for many many years.  I called my dad recently and the dear man explained my feelings to me as if he were me...the only one I know that has experienced the same feelings and sensations.  I find that it is the reason I can not hold a job for a long time outside of the house.  This is not good since I am not independantly wealthy!! LOL  When I write my novels, I do my best work.  If only I had an agent and a publisher then maybe I would earn an income at home :D

All that said...I'm just looking to know any others who are fine in most other ways, just this anxiety thing is getting the best of you!  Misery loves company :D

Many people have fears, but that is just a "tip of the ice burg" compared to what you are experiencing. From what you are describing, it is genetic/physiological rather than the result of a horrible personal experience?

Yep...genetic/physiological is right.

I don't know anything about it - I have some pretty ridiculous amounts of stress and anxiety in my life, but it's all due to cir****tances that I can pretty easily identify.

Has your dad ever found any kind of support group for this issue?  Have you looked on line or asked your doctor for any resources to help you cope with it?  I suppose my suggestions are rather lame since you've dealt with it for so long...  And it's absolutely fine for you to come here and look for support - I just think that finding a community of people that can sincerely relate to your issues and help you deal with them would be a huge help for you.

At least you know your ticker is good 

Thanks for replying, Darla.  It has been a long row to hoe, but I am finding slowly that more folks are willing to talk...if they know someone else won't shut them down.  Maybe it will help them if I let them into my world first??

I am very very relieved that my ticker is good!  Now I know when I feel odd things that it is most likely another issue!!  Less stress that way!

 I can't say as I have any experience in that area - but I did want you to know I'm keeping you in my prayers and sending big hugs your way.. 

Stephanie

Here's hoping for a happier, healthier new year, Tere.  I know you have your challenges, but you are doing better, I'm sure, with your weight loss.  I'm sorry you have to deal with this issue, but I agree with others, that finding support is key. 

Reaching out here was a good idea, but there have to be other groups more focused on your particular issue.  All the best to you.

Mary

OK, thanks everyone.  It was just a thought that I'd give a shout to fellow Americans

Tere,

Just now checked OH.....Well, you know my story by our talks on the phone......Depression is real and can kick your ass to the curb....It's finding the right medication, the right doctor, counselor and support from those closest to us.....And just being able to talk to others that go through just a tiny bit of what your going through...You know I'm always here for you....Love you....Kel

 Tere, I had terrible anxiety after I had my heart attack July 2007.  Every twinge snowballed the thought of OMG is that another heart attack started.  Then a panic attack that felt like a heart attack...... nasty cycle.

My Dad gave me the book HOPE AND HELP FOR YOUR NERVES BY CLAIRE WEEKES - it saved my life.  I don't suggest that this will magically cure you, but I do honestly believe it will help you.  Get a copy today.  Every person I know who has read it said "I felt like she wrote the book about me"  I felt the same way.

In time as I was able to face the attacks head on and learn to ride them out it got better.  As I improved my over all health, they got better.

I am so sorry for your troubles, I wouldn't wi**** on anyone.  But I do swear that this book will help you.   OK?  Big hugs

Happy New Year

Tess