Panic attack without the panic?

iVillage Member
Registered: 06-25-2003
Panic attack without the panic?
8
Mon, 07-17-2006 - 7:14pm

Hi I'm a newbie here, but not to iVillage.


I was taken to the ER recently, short of breath, hyperventilating, weak, limb

-Paula

visit my blog at www.onesickmother.com
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-22-2003
Mon, 07-17-2006 - 9:01pm

When I get a panic attack, the first symptom is always dizziness, numbness/tingling in my arms & hands usually follows next.

Sheri Ann

Avatar for caper2002
iVillage Member
Registered: 05-08-2003
Mon, 07-17-2006 - 9:15pm
I don't know whether it depands on the individual or not. When I get panic attack, my first symtom is always shortness of breath and follows with pressure of my chest, sweating, dizziness, numbness of my arms. I had complete physical exam in the late June, the serious health issue already ruled out. That how I was diagnosis with panic disorder.
iVillage Member
Registered: 07-16-2006
Mon, 07-17-2006 - 9:26pm
OH yes definitely. Happens to me all of the time and I will have small symptoms and then I fixate and it gets so worse. I don't have panic either it just happens. I never hyperventilate consciously but your mind is sensitive enough to panic without you knowing it and then the adrenaline goes into your body and you have little control and all of your symptoms come on. I carry xanax and take a half or whole when I get this feeling it ...is my lifesaver. You are ok and cannot die from a panic attack and you cannot even faint because your blood pressure goes so high that it won't let you that you only feel that way. I get these whenI am stressed and even if I am having a good day it can still happen because the stress is lying beneath it all. The good thing is that you know that it is a panic attack and you need to relax and ride it out and breathe and get some xanax. Also, caffeine will really bring this on without you knowing it....even if you were not caffeine sensitive before. I also shake and get like shivers and my face gets numb and I am sure I am having a stroke This is just my experience. Don't get yourself worked up about this. You will be ok
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-22-2003
Mon, 07-17-2006 - 10:04pm

The symptoms are definitely different from individual to individual.

Sheri Ann

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-27-2003
Tue, 07-18-2006 - 12:21am

Hi Paula, sorry about your ER visit. I agree with what everyone else has posted...I just wanted to add that I think it would be a really good idea to follow up with your regular doctor too. Some kinds of seizures don't cause you to black out. And especially if you didn't feel panicked when the attack started, maybe you should make sure there's no medical cause.

I hope you get it all figured out...that sounds so scary...

Rose

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-11-2004
Tue, 07-18-2006 - 11:11am

Welcome, Paula! I'm so glad that you posted. We have a great community here with lots of supportive folks.


I am sorry about what you experienced. Being an old timer with 36 years of panic attacks under my belt, I can totally relate with what you experienced. I have had the out of the blue attacks, that didn't have the fear & terror one might expect. The first few years I experienced panic attacks, I was NOT afraid. But, I agree with others who suggested you get a check up from your physician. If there's nothing wrong, which I hope is the case, @ least you'll have some reassurance. Like Sheri Ann said, getting treatment for anxiety sooner than later is a good thing.


Post anytime with questions or concerns. Join in our chats. There's a *coping tips & tricks* folder below that will give you some ideas on how to handle stress. We want you to feel better. Good luck & GBU! (((hugs))) jan




 

 


 



iVillage Member
Registered: 06-25-2003
Tue, 07-18-2006 - 11:25pm

Thanks everyone for your advice and support.


I have been trying to find a source for several symptoms I have had for years; fatigue, dizziness, vision problems, migraines, and chronic back pain. I recently started to see an endocrinologist and he did a huge amount of bloodwork

-Paula

visit my blog at www.onesickmother.com
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-22-2003
Wed, 07-19-2006 - 9:56am

Thank-you, Paula, for the compliment on the board!

Sheri Ann