Apprehensive about meds

[DanteNXS]

Hello,

Let me start off by saying that I am not 100% sure if I have anxiety/depression, as I have never been diagnosed with it. However, I do feel that something is wrong with my health. My symptoms are few, but they cause me such distress 75% of the time.

Symptoms: Internal tremors mainly in the head and upper body, lightheaded/dizziness, and stomach pain.

I have been suffering with these symptoms for over a year and have tried several natural therapies, which work, but not for long periods of time. I was prescribed ativan for a different issue a few months ago and it seemed to knock these symptoms out, but it also made me feel strange and out of sorts, so I did not continue taking it.

I know there are a lot of meds out there and the side effects for all are quite disturbing, but I wanted to know if anyone on HU is having any success with them. I have heard so many horror stories about them, but I want to try and figure out if it is worth taking them.

Please provide me your feedback and feel free to ask to me any questions you want.

Thanks,

DanteNXS

[Jeff1943]

DanteNXS, the first thing to do if you haven't already is to discuss your problems with your doctor and have any tests he or she suggests so as to give you reassurance.

The symptoms you describe indeed sound like anxiety but what's all this about horror stories about meds. All meds are thoroughly tested before doctors are allowed to prescribe them and and side effects likely to be temporary and minor and are by far outweighed by the benefits. The reason so many people fear taking meds is because anxiety about taking anti anxiety medications is also a symptom of anxiety.

I would also suggest that regardless of whether you take advantage if anti anxiety medications you should investigate the self help methods and books that are frequently mentioned on this forum.

[DanteNXS in reply to Jeff1943]

I have been discussing these symptoms with my doctors for several months. They and I initially thought it was due to my thyroid, but my levels are good, probably not optimal though, but they will not prescribe anything.

As far as the horror stories, perhaps horror was a bit strong, but there are lots of people on here that have expressed the negative effects of the meds. I am very sensitive to medicine and really have to be careful.

I have tried different self help techniques, but still have the symptoms above. I am just trying to gain a better understanding of what's available and the pros and cons.

Thanks