Lexapro side-effects/withdrawal symptoms

I was diagnosed with GAD Jan 2007. and have been taking Lexapro since then. Recently, I've been busy and not had time to schedule a doctors appointment. (I'm finally scheduled for this coming friday). My perscription for lexapro ran out last week and lately i've been noticing a lot of moodiness and been kind of irritable. My sleep pattern is also really screwed up. I kind of suspected this but the thing that has me really worried is that during the day there are times when i feel kind of dizzy and i notice a weird tingling in my lips. It doesn't last but for several seconds, and usually when i'm walking around. I read on webmd that numbness and tingling in the mouth can be a symptom from the GAD. Its starting to worry me (but then again, i'm a compulsive worrier.) I was just wondering if anyone knows if this could be a side effect or withdrawal symptom from the lexapro.

I was also wondering if anyone knew of any anti-anxiety meds that i could talk to my doctor about. I've been through the ringer with Lexapro (high blood pressure, heart palpitations, low sex drive... and i'm 21!... as well as paranoia, lethargy, moodiness, excessive crying and worry, panic attacks, etc, etc.)

Thanks

After a stroke I was generally depressed and my doctor prescribed Lexapro. I have been taking Lexapro (10mg) for over eight years. Two weeks ago my prescription ran out and I just forgot to renew it. I decided to stop taking the medication without consulting with my physcian. Low and behold, I experienced some strange symptoms ranging from severe headaches, nausea, mental confusion, and flu-like symptoms. Its been two weeks and I have not taken Lexapro. I have briefly found myself crying or just feeling sad over past memories, again I refused to take another Lexapro. I must admit, I was unaware of the withdrawal symptoms and side effects of Lexapro. However, I am happy to report the following:

Out of the CLouds....I feel as if a cloud had been lifted and I can see a little clearer now. Sounds, lights, and mental interpretations seems much clearer now. It even seems that I have more energy now. After reading the post here regarding Lexapro withdrawals, I hope that the worst is over now. I also pray that the feeling of clearer thoughts will stay with me.

I admit that over the years I cannont pinpoint any serious side-effects with Lexapro, however, I have gained weight which may be a result of the Lexapro. There was a time when I did not want to get out of the bed due to the limitations I suffered from my stroke. The stroke I suffered was a major one in my brain stem and I am constantly reminded by my neurologist that I am very lucky to be alive. There was also a point in life in which I did not want to be alive.

Over the years, I have regained my confidence and the mental and physical limitations due to the stroke. If the Lexapro helped me with regaining my confidence then I will be forever grateful. As of now I do not plan to return to the Lexapro, and I will deal with the headaches, flash-backs, cold sweats, and nausea, which seems to be tapering off.

The lights are brighter and I'm enjoying this feeling without the Lexapro, now all I need is to loose a little weight.

Thanks Lexapro.