Expert: Kim - 3/9/2007

Question
In June of 2006, my fiance and I got engaged and we went from looking for an apartment to looking for a house.  Now I've never been good with money so I began to really stress about that.  Needless to say, my chest started hurting which I attributed to stress.  I told someone about it a couple months later (September 06) and they said I should have it checked out.  I went to the ER for significant chest pain (terrified me, I've always been afraid of death and dying).  Doctors said I either had musculoskeletal strain or panic/anxiety.  Two weeks later I again felt the symptoms, also with inability to breathe and tingling in my legs and arms. Again, went to the ER, same result.

for the last few months I've had shooting pains in my fingers, arms, legs and chest.  I began seeing a new Doctor (we moved) and on the first visit, he prescribed Lexapro 10mg for me.  Needless to say, I don't recall any side effects, but my dreams have been extremely vivid and there are days when my chest really hurts and I still panic over stuff.  i went to a new doctor today because my previous one continuously cancelled appointments for personal reasons.  this Doctor told me I come across as a nervous wreck who should be concerned about my life.  He said I don't eat right, I shouldn't be bald at 27, and I am too jittery/nervous for him.  he suggested I immediately go off the lexapro and begin taking xanax.  What do you think?  

If you agree, how do I go off one and begin the other so the transition is smooth.

Answer
Hi,

Sounds like me, I was buying a home a few months ago and had the same symtoms as you.  I cancelled the contract, I couldnt take it.  Maybe you should get married first and then find a home, you can use the money from the wedding?  why put the horse before the wagon?  You are stressing!!!  its alot to take on a wife and a home, take it slow, dont be rushed into buying a home, unless you have already.  As far as the lexapro, why did he put you on that?  Are you depressed as well?  I used to take Xanax 30 min before sleep, that worked for me, It may take the edge for you. If you just relax for awhile all this may stop, you have alot going on here.  Write anytime, Kim