Beta blockers

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When I was given beta blockers, I was in such a confused and anxious state that I didn't fully understand why they'd been prescribed to me. I had come out of the surgery with prescriptions for beta blockers, an antidepressant and a benzodiazepine and I wasn't sure what they were all for. Once I started feeling better I stopped taking the beta blockers as it seemed pointless to me - why put a sticker plaster over a symptom that is actually benign? That was just my attitude. It seemed unnecessary once I understood what was happening. That being said, I think the beta blockers did prove useful to me when things were all too much. I always feel that - if you feel the benefit of a medication - you absolutely must make use of that feeling to really tackle the underlying problem.

[snaps042]

Thank you all for taking the time to reply to my query. I appreciate everyone’s input.

Just to confirm, I have been prescribed tablets to combat anxiety, but they will take a while to kick in.

The beta blockers have been prescribed to deal uniquely with the heart palpitations.

Neither of these prescriptions are for long-term use. I have been referred to a mental health specialist with whom I hope to strike up a good relationship and to get to the bottom of this issue.

My initial problem was my reluctance to take the beta blockers, but it appears I should just get on with it as they will be beneficial and help stop the part palpitations.

Once again, many thanks.

If anyone else has anything positive to add, then I would be delighted to hear from you.

snaps042

[BlueIris]

I've been on beta blockers a few times over the years for anxiety and for migraine auras. I know now that I can't take them in the evening without insomnia, so when I need them I request slow-release; your mileage may vary.

The only other issue I've had with them is chilly hands and feet.

[snaps042]

Many thanks for your reply.

My doctor put me on Pregabalin (25mg tablet twice a day). After two weeks, there was no change whatsoever, so he has tripled the dose to 75 mg a day as, apparently, the 25 mg dose was tiny.

Yesterday I had no heart palpitations at all, but today, they just won’t stop. I’ll give the increased medication a go and I have another catch up with my doctor in a fortnight.

If I really need to start the beta blockers and they will stop the heart palpitations, I’ll just have to get on with it.

Once again, many thanks for your help.

[Chandler]

Are you experiencing a fast heart rate with you palpitations (tachycardia) or more flutters (ectopic beats)? Or a combination of both?