Going insane

[FoozMike]

Ok so i started off by posting in the heart forum because i thought that might be where i needed to be but i guess i was wrong. I had anxiety attack almost 3 months ago that landed me in the hospital. I thought my heart was gonna explode. They did a chest X ray and CT scan said i was fine and sent me on my way. I went to a cardio who did stress test and said it was fine. But told me my cholesterol was high so every since i was told about my cholesterol being high i have been going crazy over it. I know its been high for almost 5 years but I never really thought anything about it until i started doing research on how i can end up with my chest cracked open. BTW i am only 24. Now I get chest pains every so often but people keep telling me that its in my head. I currently just started seeing a physocologist because i dont want to get on meds. Am i doing the right thing by speaking to someone or is it better for me to get medicated?

[Happy2girls]

Welcome.  My anxiety started the exact same way with cardiac symptoms.  My cholesterol is high but not enough to warrant medication.  I've had palpatations for years but last September out of the blue and for no clear reason I started with other scary symptoms.  But tests were all good and I ended up having to face the fact that yes indeed anxiety was my number one problem.  The doctor prescribed xanax but he was clear to tell me that it was very addictive and to take it as needed only when I felt an attack coming on.  He gave me enough  for only one month and no refills.  He said if they work then we could discuss our options.  Well, they worked and I only needed to take a few before I was convinced that my problems were anxiety and not my heart.  I've been working with a pyschologist who is helping me to learn ways to relax and control my symptoms and I am medication free.  So, don't fear the process...do what it takes to get better.  There are many treatment options and this is treatable.  Considering what you are going through now what do you have to lose.  

[suzi-q]

It is definitely a personal choice.  Many of us on this site didn't want meds either and ended up on them.  You have to weigh the pros and cons.  Is the psychologist helping you?  You are definitely suffering from anxiety and I know how terrible it can be.  Your symptoms are REAL, but it is not a physical problem.  It is your body responding to your emotions.  If  your anxiety effects your life where you are not able to function normally, I would suggest medication.  Go see a psychiatrist also, it doesn't necessarily mean medication, but you can see your options.  
Best to you!