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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Is The Treatment For Depression And Anxiety?

Hi, I am a 22 year old female with mild depression and anxiety. I was diagnosed about a year ago, and take 100 mg Zoloft. About 4 days ago, I had what I believe to be my first panic attack. I had ingested quite a bit of caffeine on this day, so I m guessing this is what triggered it. It was pretty scary, and lasted about an hour. Chills, discomfort in chest, tingling and numbness and this awful feeling of dread. Ever since then, I ve been experiencing what I can only describe as a lightness in my chest that goes down into my arms at times. When this happens, I feel like I m about to experience another attack, but I am able to calm myself down before it happens. I have no symptoms other than this, and no pain, but it still makes me feel uncomfortable. I would like to see a cardiologist, but unfortunately I have no insurance at the moment. Is this normal or is this something I should be concerned about?
Wed, 12 Nov 2014
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Psychiatrist,  's  Response
Hello, Welcome to Health Care Magic

You have mild depression and anxiety and are prescribed Sertraline for that. The drug is used in anxiety, depression and also in panic attacks. It can improve the condition but in states of severe panic attacks other drugs like low dose benzodiazepines as clonazepam, alprazolam etc are needed. You had caffeine triggered panic attack and then you have fear of future panic attacks. Such fear and anxiety for panic attacks is also called as Anticipatory Anxiety. Such type of anxiety is common after panic attacks. Most likely there is no need to consult a cardiologist. Visit your psychiatrist again and ask about addition of some medicines like clonazepam that can be used in panic attacks.

Try relaxation exercises, breathing exercises to decrease symptoms of arousal in anxiety. Biofeedback by a psychologist will also help you.

Thanks, hope this helps you.
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What Is The Treatment For Depression And Anxiety?

Hello, Welcome to Health Care Magic You have mild depression and anxiety and are prescribed Sertraline for that. The drug is used in anxiety, depression and also in panic attacks. It can improve the condition but in states of severe panic attacks other drugs like low dose benzodiazepines as clonazepam, alprazolam etc are needed. You had caffeine triggered panic attack and then you have fear of future panic attacks. Such fear and anxiety for panic attacks is also called as Anticipatory Anxiety. Such type of anxiety is common after panic attacks. Most likely there is no need to consult a cardiologist. Visit your psychiatrist again and ask about addition of some medicines like clonazepam that can be used in panic attacks. Try relaxation exercises, breathing exercises to decrease symptoms of arousal in anxiety. Biofeedback by a psychologist will also help you. Thanks, hope this helps you.