Anxiety/heart/beta-blockers

[stackona]

Should I take Propranopol or not? Currently I don't take anything at all. I have resting heart rate at night around 60, even below (55-57 etc.). When I wake up I have around 70 bpm. Every time I measure myself it is below 80 for sure at home. I have normal blood pressure, on average ~115/70 when I measure. I am 27.

But I can have panic attacks sometimes, when I saw it at ~120bpm. I went to a cardiologist 3 times, everything was fine always with my heart, but I am the most anxious at the cardiologist. So I have the strongest attack possible there with 90-120-ish bpm and 160/90bp at the whole time. So they suggested me taking beta blockers. (She gave me one during the examination, and although I was extremely anxious, my bpm dropped below 100 in 5 min) I didn't start taking since I tried to explain them, I am never in my life so anxious when they examine my heart. I feel like it was going to jump out. It was beating so strong and quick I am not sure I ever feel like that. I have a mild panic disorder since last month, and white coat phobia in my whole life.

When I had the same symptoms 3 years ago at a cardiologist they told me its okay, they see I am anxious, I can have a 24 hour Holter if I want to make sure (that is why I checked every day almost and saw always low pulse in the afternoon and at night). But this cardiologist didn't recommend beta blockers. So I just didn't care and forgot the whole thing for 3 years. I gave a shit and all my attacks and fear disappeared for 3 years.

But a month ago I because really worried for my heart after 2 panic attacks (very stressful situations, rapid heartbeat etc.), so I started monitoring it all the time again.

Should I take beta blockers or not? One psychologist and cardiologist said no, another said yes.

[Agora1]

Hi stackona, Only your doctor can decide what is best for you. However, it is your body and you know yourself better than anyone. The fact that your pulse and blood pressure run low to begin with, I would agree in that taking a beta blocker can plummet your vitals and make you feel worse.

There are many drugs of choice out there for them to pick from that will not have the dire effects on you. There are also many methods to help relieve anxiety w/o using medication. Your choice with the advice of your doctors...

[stackona in reply to Agora1]

Thanks! I definitely don't want benzos or antidepressants first. I want to try 5-htp and valerian now. + progressive muscle relaxation, breathing exercise... I will also look for some online CBT.

The fact that 2 doctor said 2 different things puzzled me a bit. I guess there is never an easy/straightforward solution. Actually this is the 4th time in my life that I have a few months like this (after 3 months it always ends) and after there is nothing for years, I even start to forget I feel pretty fine..., and then lot of stress, I strain myself, summer comes, and bum, it's here again. (it is strange that I only have my worries during summer, after that I start to forget them and I am fine...)

[Agora1 in reply to stackona]

That is strange that it's only a summer ailment stackona. What's different in the summer that you don't have all year long? Good Luck with Progressive muscle relaxation and breathing. I'm a big believer and supporter of that. It's what keeps me on a level plane. Must be used daily to get best results. Keep us updated.

[stackona in reply to Agora1]

My guess is:

Mainly long holidays after lots of stress in uni / at workplace... and I just swallow-swallow the stress for months/years... and release in the summer, at least in my interpretation. The strange thing for me, that after this ailment is gone, I am the most stable mentally. Even much more stable, than in the months before it came.

To illustrate with an example: I can easily have an interview abroad just right after landing with the plane - in the first year after it's ended-, in the next year I am a little nervous on the plane when going on holiday, in the year following I am very stressed on the plane. Then I have this 3 months with a few panics and health worries/anxiety, and like it burns out of me, I am clean, and the cycle starts again. Now my plan is to do something in the good years after it ends to don't let the stress to accumulate.

[Francesca-H]

hiya..i have the exactly same issue...i was prescribed these because my heart rate goes crazy which makes me then panic more...and my.BP would be high...i have be given them to take when I feel my anxiety is reaching say boiling point so I don't take them everyday...there is no harm in having them like me for when you feel like you need one to help...speak to your GP x

[stackona in reply to Francesca-H]

That sounds okay (to take them only on occasion). I will suggest it, thanks!