My son, age 35, has anxiety. physical: normal bp, but high (100) heart rate. no hyperthyroidism. other physical causes of both? beta blocker help?

Complex: Good run down in space allowed! other considerations include infection, heart failure, av fistua, anemia, malnutrition or most any underlying chronic illness. Anxiety is likely but is a DX of exclusion. A lipophilic beta blocker like Propranolol can help. Xanax (alprazolam) is also used rather than valium.

Anxiety issues: I agree with dr. Werner's list of differential diagnoses of anxiety, which can itself cause many physical symptoms. However, i respectfully disagree that xanax is the best long-term anxiety treatment, and suggest seeing a psychiatrist for evaluation and recommendations. Xanax can help temporarily but is habit-forming. Other, safer options include psychotherapy, buspar, (buspirone) ssri's, inderal, etc.