Anxiety and Muscle Tremors: When to Seek Help - Psychiatry

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Unexplained feelings of trembling and anxiety?


Hello doctor, I previously visited a neurologist because of muscle twitching in my legs.
The doctor prescribed me Rozerem (Ramelteon) 0.5 mg to take before bed, B-complex capsules, and Clonazepam for a month.
However, I forgot to take the medications a few times or forgot to bring them with me.
Will this lead to treatment failure? The muscle twitching continues to occur, and I feel like there hasn't been much effect.
I also missed taking Rozerem for a few days because I fell asleep.
After that, I started to experience very mild tremors, and I increasingly feel that my symptoms are worsening, with a sensation of weakness in my limbs.
I'm beginning to suspect that I might have some rare neurological disorder, which leads me to think about it often.
I wonder if this could be considered health anxiety.
Even when I try not to think about it, I still experience physical symptoms like soreness in my limbs.
Recently, I've also started to have thoughts about planning for the rest of my life.

Xiao Fuu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/07/01

Dr. Huang Xiaoxian reply Psychiatry


Hello, Xiao Fu.
Thank you for your question.
Currently, your medication is symptomatic treatment, and it is generally recommended to take it as prescribed.
However, occasionally missing a dose should not lead to severe consequences.
It sounds like the more critical issue is that you are in a state of anxiety.
I'm not sure if there have been other sources of stress recently.
I suggest discussing this with your physician, who may refer you to a psychologist for further counseling.
Wishing you all the best!

Reply Date: 2020/07/01

More Info


It sounds like you are experiencing a challenging situation with your health, particularly concerning muscle tremors and anxiety. It's understandable to feel overwhelmed, especially when symptoms persist despite treatment. Let's break down your concerns and explore the best steps forward.

First, regarding the muscle tremors and the medications prescribed by your neurologist, it's crucial to adhere to the treatment plan as closely as possible. Missing doses of medication, especially for conditions like anxiety or neurological issues, can lead to fluctuations in symptoms. For instance, medications like Ropinirole (which I assume you meant by "羅氏利福全") are often used to manage symptoms of movement disorders, and consistency is key to their effectiveness. If you have missed doses, it may take some time for your body to adjust back to the medication's effects. However, if you notice that your symptoms are worsening or not improving, it’s essential to communicate this to your doctor. They may need to adjust your dosage or consider alternative treatments.

Your mention of experiencing anxiety about potential rare neurological diseases is also significant. It's not uncommon for individuals with ongoing physical symptoms to develop health anxiety, where the fear of having a serious illness can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and lead to a cycle of worry and physical symptoms. This is often referred to as "health anxiety" or "hypochondria." The physical sensations you describe, such as muscle weakness and discomfort, can indeed be linked to anxiety, as stress can manifest in various physical ways, including muscle tension and fatigue.

To address your concerns about whether your thoughts and feelings constitute anxiety, it’s important to recognize that anxiety can present in many forms. If you find yourself preoccupied with health concerns, experiencing persistent worry, or having difficulty concentrating due to these thoughts, it may be beneficial to seek professional help. A mental health professional can provide support and strategies to manage anxiety, which may, in turn, alleviate some of the physical symptoms you are experiencing.

In terms of planning for your future, it’s great that you are thinking about your life goals. However, if these thoughts are causing you distress or leading to feelings of hopelessness, it’s essential to discuss them with a therapist or counselor. They can help you navigate these feelings and develop a more positive outlook on your future.

Here are some steps you can take:
1. Consult Your Doctor: Schedule an appointment with your neurologist to discuss your ongoing symptoms and any concerns about your medication. Be honest about your adherence to the treatment plan and how you feel.

2. Seek Mental Health Support: Consider speaking with a psychologist or counselor who can help you address your anxiety. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for managing health anxiety.

3. Practice Self-Care: Engage in activities that promote relaxation and reduce stress, such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, or gentle exercise. These practices can help manage both anxiety and physical symptoms.

4. Educate Yourself: Sometimes, understanding your condition can alleviate fears. However, be cautious about excessive research, as it can sometimes lead to increased anxiety.

5. Connect with Support: Talk to friends or family about what you’re experiencing. Having a support system can make a significant difference in managing anxiety and health concerns.

Remember, you are not alone in this, and seeking help is a strong and positive step. Your health and well-being are paramount, and addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of your symptoms will be crucial in finding relief and improving your quality of life.

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