trying to overcome this

[tm1405]

I had underlying symptoms of anxiety for a long time. They started to manifest in physical symptoms and I went to countless doctors. In the past year I have seen 2 GP's, a cardiologist, a neurologist, a rheumotologist, an allergist and had one visit to the ER. I've have echocardiograms, MRIs, chest xrays.... And I'm only 24! All this to discover I'm "fine" physically. Yet I still have symptoms. Sometimes I feel hazy like I can't focus and like I am going to faint. Sometimes I feel short of breath like I can't take a full breath and my throat is closing. Sometimes my sinuses hurt, or my stomach. It seems the symptoms migrate, yet I am always told the same thing. I don't feel ok though. It can be dibilitating. Simple things such as interacting with people or making plans are difficult since I don't know how I will feel and the thought of a panic attack is always luring in the background. I've had a few really bad ones before and I'm so scared to get another. I carry xanax with me just in case. I just wish I could live without this fear and be normal.

[RoseFlower]

I think you should tell your doctor that you want a referral to a Psychiatrist. We can feel symptoms even if our bodies are "fine." There's nothing wrong with seeing one and he or she will be a full medical Dr. who knows about anxiety in all its forms.

In the meantime, I hear the book, The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook is highly recommended. I have a copy that I've yet to open.