After numbness all day, im Afraid I won't wake up.

[Ab632]

I'm a 31 year old female.  I started going to the er and doctor six months ago because I was convinced I was having a heart attack. My doc gave me Fetzima to help control my anxiety.  
I feel like my symptoms are getting worse.  Today my left arm went numb. This caused me to have a meltdown. The more upset I got, the more of my body became numb. I stopped taking my medication three days ago. I assumed the numbness was a symptom of withdrawal. I consulted with a pharmacist and she concurred. She said I would have another day of feeling this way even if I took the pill.
I took the pill and I still can't get myself to calm down. My face, neck, chest, back, and arms are numb. Has anyone else experienced numbness to this degree? I'm terrified to go to sleep because of don't think I will wake up. I just got married. I'm scared of dying. Anyone have similar issues?  I could really use someone to talk to right now.

[LRon]

I've also gone to the ER convinced I was having a heart attack. It turned out to be a major-league out of the blue panic attack. And I've had nights when I was afraid to fall asleep because I didn't think I would wake up. So I've walked the path you are on.

Given that you are 31, it's highly unlikely that your left arm pain is heart-related. Anxiety can cause all kinds of physical symptoms, so it's probably the reason for much of what you are enduring.

I'm not a doctor, but I'm fairly familiar with meds that are prescribed for anxiety -- and Fetzima isn't one that typically used for that purpose. Also, it's *possible* that you aren't tolerating the medication well. I've tried two other SSRIs and didn't do well with either one, so I have some experience to draw on.

My suggestions...

1. Ask your doc for a Rx for Ativan or Xanax, and take it as needed. It will give you the immediate relief you need.

2. See a neurologist just to rule out anything in that department.
But it's probably just anxiety/panic.

3. Start seeing a counselor/therapist to help you uncover the reason(s) for your anxiety, and learn strategies for overcoming it. You want someone who can provide you with cognitive behavioral therapy.

Best wishes!

[drifter0213]

you must see a medical doctor before you discontinue meds to minimalize withdrawals if this happens again don't take it :)