caffeine induced anxiety episode

[ibltrn28]

So here's a brief history of my condition. Was diagnosed in late 2009 with anxiety and mild depression because of it. Been on and off many medications, currently been on Lexapro 20mg taken once a day, and alprazolam .5mg taken whenever needed (usually only two or three times a month) for almost 6 months, was doing good.

My question to the community is has anyone had a caffeine induced anxiety episode? I made the mistake of trying green tea caffeine to help with my workouts thinking i had raised my tolerance enough and am now experiencing heightened anxiety symptoms (restlessness, burning skin sensations, and once in awhile i feel like having a crying episode with no trigger, etc). I immediately stopped the green tea but has been 5 days and my symptoms seem to fluctuate with little to no improvement. Now my current medication seem to not be really helping as i now need to take more alprazolam than i regularly did to keep myself calm.

I will be seeing my psychiatrist soon but I just wanted to know if anyone has had a similar experience and if so how long did it last for you to get back to your "regular state" (knowing we all have our own state or regular).    

Thank You All So Very Much

[ibltrn28]

Nothing new in my life good nor bad. I have gone through 2 years worth of CBT and that is what is keeping me a float. Thank you so very much for your suggestion, i find myself more frustrated with the continuous severe symptoms. Ive been through some tough moments before with my condition so i know in the back of my mind it will pass but its this mean time that has me flustered. Thank you Maxy.

[CRSeaside]

Hi. I've had very high anxiety one jut 1 1/2 cups of coffee depending on what else is happening in my life.
But, sometimes coffee seems to help me from feeling depressed.
I've not experienced what you're describing. An after effect days later. No
Has there been anything new in your life. Even good positive things can raise anxiety levels.
Also if you don't already know you can ask your Dr to teach you CBT. It's a way you take control. Teach yourself new thought patterns.
I also use breath work and meditation to control anxiety.  You may want to start a mood chart. And then note your coping mechanism too.
Glad to hear you're working out. That's great. Maxy

[SonyaLuv]

I had an attack about 2 minutes after sipping strong coffee.  It was bizarre.  I drink one cup a day normally and feel ok although I know I should probably stop as if makes my heart flutter.  

Anyway, after drinking the coffee my heart starting racing almost instantly and I feel weak, short of breath and just weird the rest of the day.  I said it lasted about 48 hours before I felt ok again.  However, I am not on any meds right now so I guess my situation may be different.