beta blocker v. paxil? - Anxiety Message Board

camtorres15 · 09-10-2005, 11:39 AM

OK so now it's been 4 days since I started the beta blocker. I thought it was working fairly well, but had a tiny panic attack last night. I am beginning to wonder if this is the right med for me? I am going to talk to my doc next week about trying paxil (or another anti depressant). Yes, the beta blocker has helped with palps and such however I think I'd almost rather have palps than this anxious feeling. They say that the beta blockers lower your blood pressure and pulse and I was so consumed by the thought that my bp was too low last night that I was checking my pulse CONSTANTLY. I have a feeling that is what caused my attack. I seriously am at a loss of what to do next. And how do I know if this is anxiety or depression? Last night after my attack I was almost in tears b/c I just want to feel normal again. I feel like I am never going to get back to my old self and I look at my kids and wonder how I can possibly be a good Mom when I feel so miserable? Thank you for listening and helping. I appreciate you all!!

SRMom · 09-10-2005, 11:55 AM

Do you normally have low blood pressure...is that why you were worried? I was going to suggest a higher dose of your beta-blocker, but if you are too worried about your heartrate, maybe that isn't the best thing for you. Paxil made my life hell, while on it and during my withdrawal from it. For me, I'd rather have an occasional panic attack than the side-effects of an SSRI. Some people love SSRI's though and swear by them. I can't remember, are you taking a benzo? That is what really helps me get normal from panic.

camtorres15 · 09-10-2005, 12:03 PM

SRMom~
I originally got Xanax when this first started happening, and it seemed to work. but now it doesn't. I mean, it calms me a bit, but not completely. I normally have just regular blood pressure, not too low. I haven't felt dizzy or lightheaded or anything so I know that rationally the beta blocker probably isn't causing a problem. But if I THINK it is then I just worry and it manifests into this huge thing. See, that is my problem. I need something to stop the constant worrying I do. After my attack last night (which by the way I managed to calm myself down in a matter of minutes...I was so proud!!) I was able to go back to sleep, but everytime I'd wake up I felt really jittery--and that was AFTER I had taken a Xanax. When I got up this morning, I felt that way and my palms felt kinda clammy from nerves. I took my beta blocker and another Xanax and I feel pretty good right now. For me, the worst part of all of this is that anxious feeling. I can handle sweaty palms, a few heart palps...but when it's 3:00 in the morning and I am wide awake knowing I have to work the next day? That is where I need some help.

SRMom · 09-10-2005, 12:22 PM

When I used to work, I had the same trouble (I'm a stay-at-home mom now). I figured out it was my job that was the problem. My doctor kept telling me to change jobs, but I thought I was trapped because of the income we needed and the medical benefits we had through my job. I ended up having a nervous breakdown...couldn't eat, sleep, cried all the time, didn't get off the couch for a month. Looking back, my family and I would've been so much better off if I had just changed jobs.

Maybe you do need to try an antidepressant. I hate saying that because of how terrible they all were for me (I tried four or five), but maybe it's just the right thing for you. It's a lot of pressure to be a working mom and still have to take care of your home...two full-time jobs really. My heart goes out to you. Have a nice day...I'll check back later.

hry33 · 09-10-2005, 01:13 PM

to c ammtorest
you really do need to learn new ways of relaxing and stopping worrying, meds cant do all of this this for you
in your present state I think an antidepressant would be too risky, a beta blocker helps with the physical problems only,it reduces them
also xanax as needed at a higher dose will help

our bodies work better if ignored, dont monitor your heart or body as this always makes your anxiety worse

your problems are much better understood nowdays and you shoule expect to get better