Maybe not Panic.....but GAD??? - Panic Disorders Message Board

brysonav · 01-16-2003, 05:06 PM

I am currently experiencing vague symptoms that I've been told by doctors is anxiety related, although I'm not altogether convinced that what I'm going through is anxiety related. Lately, I have had problems taking a full breath. When I try, it feels as if my breath is (for lack of a better phrase) "cut off." Also, I have to constantly clear my throat, as if something is blocking my airway. I don't smoke, am physically active, and otherwise in good health. I have had similar problems in the past (started about 5 years ago after a minor cold) and was prescribed Zoloft. I took this med for about 6 months and stopped without the symptoms ever really going away. My doctor said I was suffering from panic attacks, but I never have felt "free" from anxiety and can't attribute these symptoms to one event. My questions are, does anyone out there have any similar symptoms? Do any meds "cure" this condition? And to those who suffer from PA's, are you ever free from the worry about having another? It has gotten to the point where I get extremely nervous about routine things, such as driving to work, waiting in lines at supermarkets etc? Please help. Any and all advice would be appreciated. Thanks.
Brys

[This message has been edited by brysonav (edited 01-16-2003).]

pjo · 01-17-2003, 11:03 AM

I suffered with panic attacks for years. I haven't had one in about a year and a half, however, I live every day with symptoms of anxiety - having trouble taking a deep breath, feeling tense, constant worry about everything. I know exactly how you feel. I have tried different meds over the years for anxiety and haven't really hit on anything that works really well for me. I just started taking Celexa yesterday, so we'll see how that works. It does sound like you are dealing with generalized anxiety disorder(me, too) and hopefully you and your doctor can come up with something to help you. Good Luck.
Pam

JessSprg · 01-17-2003, 07:28 PM

Welcome to GAD. I have Panic disorder and GAD and the swallowing thing is a symptom of both. They say it's because when you are tense the muscles in your neck actually constrict a little, believe me this freaked me out at first to, I thought that my throat was going to close up, but the doctor assured me that couldn't happen. The biggest piece of advice: STAY ON YOUR MEDS!!!!