Xanax - What am I to do about my anxiety?

Hi sadbluesky22,
I’m in the same predicament. They don’t understand the aging process to begin with.
When younger, you get a regular twinge but mentally tell yourself you must have carried something too heavy. After 70, you need to watch all these different symptoms because chances are it may possibly be something. I’m not saying you to think that way but there is a fine line between educating yourself and not do negative thinking. Negative thinking and ruminating (love this word! It’s a negative way of thinking too much about your health) which absolutely adds to stress. And the cycle continues...
Doctors don’t realize if a person has pain or other symptoms that affect your life, it would be ABNORMAL NOT to worry.
They aren’t helping when they can’t give you a definitive diagnose (especially the auto-immune invisible diseases.

It’s awesome you found a good doctor who has seen you through your life cycles.
Try going to a new specialist complaining of pain. Pat on the back and you get labeled with anxiety so all future docs see you as chronic pain and depression all because they may not be skilled enough to do their job properly!

It wouldn’t hurt to do your research and investigate other patient responses who had first hand experienced. Also the neighborhood social apps where you can ask the good ones in your area.
See the specialist (ortho, neuro, pain) as a one time consult to hopefully detect another treatment that your doc may not have had experience with before.

Of course do the other treatments for anxiety. Relaxation techniques, yoga, etc. I found distraction was best for me. I used to work 10-12 hour days (getting paid for 8)just to keep my mind active and break the cycle of ruminating constantly. I also took up crafts. I know... it’s for older people! Lol...
It is very interesting the resources now available to make very nice projects.
It also keeps your brain thinking and next look on websites that give step by step directions but also a place to socialize in the related groups. Creating expands your interests that makes you feel good when finished. Feeling good is what it’s all about. Right?
Be well, my friend. Keep us updated...
:-)

Hi, sad!
I'm sorry you're in such pain physically... and mentally.
Now, you mention that you've tried several anxiety medications. What have you tried? The SSRI and SNRI antidepressant/anxiolytics (Lexapro, Paxil, Prozac, Celexa, Effexor, Cymbalta, etc.) work well for both depression and anxiety for many people. There is another drug, buspirone, which is neither a benzo or an antidepressant that's specific for anxiety. Unfortunately, most of these medications can cause tachycardia and/or palpitations, at least initially for some users.
Just a few thoughts that you might want to discuss with your health care provider(s).
Best regards and I hope you're feeling better soon.