panic attacks?

Question

I have horrible panic attacks constanly and am thinking about an anti deppressant. I would like to know the different types and what people have experienced with each.

Sorry i over estimated some of you!!! Of course ive seen a doctor and hes been trying to get me on an anti-d for 7 months now. Ive been fghting it though. And as for the test i was told that there wasnt an accurate way to check for brain chemicals? Is that true?

Answer 1

You have a number of options.
1. The most popular (but damaging) option is to get drugs like Prozac. I suggest you read http://www.antidepressantsfacts.com/ first before taking this option. Many times drugs don’t work and people get trapped in the cycle of trying different mind-bending drugs for years, without relief.
2. If you have an issue or problem with a certain event or situation or person, see a therapist and work through it, learning new coping skills. If seeing a therapist isn't an option, self-help books can help you to learn ways to cope with problems. Plus, there are many books on panic/anxiety and also a free online course that you take over a period of weeks at http://www.paniccenter.net
3. If you have irrational phobias in an otherwise balanced life, and can’t understand why you get anxiety/panic in a certain situation, try self-hypnosis-type programs like http://www.panic-anxiety.com
4. Calming herbs like valerian, kava-kava, chamomile or special formulas might help to take the edge off, but don't seem to eliminate the problem completely. Be wary of expensive on-line herbal formulas that promise to eliminate anxiety/panic: you can easily get the same herbs at most drug stores for a fraction of the cost.
5. Exercises like tai chi or yoga (many libraries have DVDs you can rent) are helpful to calm the breathing and mind. You can do these, and other things like walking no matter what treatment you decide on.
6. If you feel you have a more or less balanced life without any major issues, yet you're having both mental and physical symptoms, such as heart palpitations, anxiety, feeling weak, bad mood swings with anxiety-anger-depression-fear, confusion, etc. you probably have a hormone imbalance, which would take blood or saliva tests to determine. If you have a hormone imbalance (which is not the same as what they call a “chemical imbalance”) no breathing exercises or hypnosis or self-talk is going to help- the physical imbalance is in the adrenals, thyroid, and cortisol levels. This is easily corrected with bio-identical hormones. Many doctors/insurance don’t deal with this, so you’ll need a specialist. http://www.womentowomen.com/depressionanxietyandmood/anxiety.asp

Answer 2

I would try other avenues if you can, relaxation techniques, meditation and counseling.
Anti-depressants or tranquillizers should be a last resort.
Try and find out the root cause of your anxiety.
Your symptoms are also very similar with hypo-thyroxism.
sweating, fast heart rate, panic attacks and many more.
Have your doctor check your thyroid level.
Do not give up there is loads of help out there just for you.
Good luck

Answer 3

I've been on Paxil on and off for about 7 years.
I originally went on it because I was suffering from frequent panic attacks.
My anxiety is completely under control now, thanks to Paxil. I haven't had any problems with it. no negative side effects or anything.

I haven't had a panic attack in probably over two years now.

Good luck.

You need to speak with your doctor though, he/she will know what's best for you. Be very open and upfront about what you've been going through.

Answer 4

I used to suffer severe anxiety and panic attacks. I have been taking paxil 20mg once a day for about 5 years and it has changed my life!! I don't know what will work for you, but for me, this has been great.

Luckily, I don't suffer depression. Just the yucky anxiety/panic.

Answer 5

There are a few types of drugs given for anxiety disorders. I take paxil (generic is paroxetine) That is a ssri. It an anti depressant.

check out this link:http://health.yahoo.com/topic/anxiety;_ylt=AldyCaQCEG.sAAb5xeJ0PfiI7M8F

Everyone's experience will be different. It took me a long time to get comfortable with the idea of taking meds but I have to say it did make a difference. It won't "cure" your panic disorder but it should make it managable. I would encourage you to do meds along with cognitive behavioral therapy to get the most benefit.

wishing you all the best!

Answer 6

I have panic disorder and I have never had a test for chemical imbalance. I take Lexapro and it has helped a lot. I fought medicine too and I wish I hadn't. Medicine has helped me tremendously, but there are fears we have about medicine and also don't want to be stereo-typed. God Bless You

Answer 7

yes there is testing for the hormones in your blood stream but they are not always accurate but can help when you have a chemical imbalance or just depression caused by trauma. I have been on many anti depressants . Email me with what the doc is recommending and I can help if I have taken it in the past.

Answer 8

40000 Cured Social Anxiety : http://SocialAnxiety.uzaev.com/?GqpH

Answer 9

ah make sure it's a depressive issue before you go an take anti depressants.. see a doctor. get a blood panel done.. some xrays and a cat scan.

make sure it's nothing chemical going on.. that's causing these attacks and elevated Adrenalin issues.

Answer 10

ativan is a fast working fav but addictive
zoloft is ok my roomie takes it
antidepressants only work sometimes each have a wide range of side effects
check with a doc and make it clear what you are looking for and dont let them instantly throw something at ya