Anxiety Medication

Jane had been having trouble coping with life lately. Although many people she knew suffered a certain amount of anxiety, Jane realized her reactions were extreme. When Jane finally saw a doctor, she was told she had the symptoms of an anxiety disorder and might need medication. But would medicine take away her frightening symptoms and give her back a normal life?

Jane had been experiencing a number of terrifying symptoms lately and couldn’t seem to control how often they appeared or for how long. After a number of trips to the hospital emergency room, sure she must be dying because of her chest pain and rapid heartbeat, the doctors assured her there was no medical condition to be concerned about. Her dizziness and blurred vision were all part of her anxiety disorder, as was the fear and depression she often experienced.

Jane’s doctor assured her that a number of medications had proven useful for treating anxiety disorders. They included antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications and which ones she might have to take would depend on her past treatment history, her medical history, any other psychological or medical problems she had, and any other medicine she was taking.

Jane was told that although her medication could effectively treat her symptoms, including the worry, panic attacks, insomnia, and difficulty concentrating, they did have some limitations. The medication would only work if she followed all of her doctor’s instructions, and it might not get rid of every one of her symptoms. She also needed to make changes in her lifestyle and possibly have individual or group counseling.
 
It was important that Jane’s doctor know all the medicines, vitamins, and even herbal and diet supplements that she was taking. She had to watch for possible side effects and avoid taking the medicine with certain foods. It was also important to know when to take the new medication, how often, and whether with or without food.

The doctor explained just how long it would probably take until the medication started to work and how she would feel once it did. Although there were some side effects, such as headaches, nausea, upset stomach, and possible dizziness, they would be temporary. If not, the dosage or the type of medicine would be changed.

Jane and her doctor closely monitored her anxiety medication and noted the positive results it achieved. As a result, Jane was no longer a captive to her emotions.