my big fat panic attack

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-26-2003
my big fat panic attack
2
Mon, 02-05-2007 - 12:27am

My period is due in about 3-4 days, and while I felt quite elated earlier in the day, by the time late afternoon hit, I was in panic mode while walking across large parking lot (it was v cold out, about 15 and windy). I immediately thought I was freezing to death (panic just makes you irrational), then had usual heart attack worry and was glad I had cell phone so could call 911 if need be. My mouth was dry, heart pounding, feelng surreal, a little dizzy, and not quite sure if numbness was from cold or panic. I went into a dept store, wishing I could just be shopping and feeling normal. Terrible sense of doom. I sat on a display table filled with jeans, and tried to calm myself. My heart seemed beating too fast (I am v physically fit, so this sensation feels strange when I am not running hard, bc my heart never does this). Five minutes passed and I was much better, and went to restroom, and other than slightly flushed cheeks, I looked normal---guess I expected to look bizarre. Was a bit weak feeling, and made it to my car. I drove home in a calmer state, but still had feeling of tension---I just wanted to go home--I hated every red light that slowed down this process, but by the time I arrived at my house (about 10 min later), I was myself again, though at various times in the journey felt I might relapse into panic at any moment.

I have had these for years, have been on meds, but haven't had a major attack for probably 4 years or more. Was it a premenstrual thing, my too vigorous exercise yesterday, my anxiety about life in general, the dreary winter, or what? It is something I live with, it is an old enemy that lives in the same town as I do, and that I run into every now and again....

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-11-2004
Mon, 02-05-2007 - 11:42am

Hi! I haven't seen you in a coon's age;) I am pretty sure your name is Lynn. Forgive me as the senior moments are getting more frequent. LOL Nice to have you, but sure am sorry to hear about the PA): I can relate to many of the symptoms you felt. I used to have the racing heart, but now I shiver & shake. That cold weather would have definitely pushed me over the edge.


I will keep my fingers crossed that this was an isolated occurrence. I think your period probably had alot to do with it. That is a very real trigger for many of the women on this board.


If there's anything stressful going on in your life, dump what you can. Carve out some *me* time. Be kinder to yourself & take it easy by not expecting as much of yourself. You can put this behind you & get back on track.


That is great news that you have been doing so well. That is a hopeful message to others in our community, that aren't quite there yet! Please take care & don't be a stranger. Sending PT's your way. GL & GBU! (((hugs))) jan

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iVillage Member
Registered: 08-22-2006
Thu, 02-08-2007 - 7:00pm
Its like the flu....its always around us. It even lives in our bodies. The right elements and reactions cause it to become active. You simply ride it out, like the flu. Let it run its course. Don't fear it. You know the flu won't kill you, and neither will panic. The more you fear and resist panic the more you fuel it. Just simply tell yourself "If I'm gonna have a panic attack, I don't even care because it can't hurt me." And that is the truth. It CANT hurt you. Its just something that pops up every now and then. Surrender, and it will wimper off. Push back, and it will put up a fight. Very simple. Also easier said than done, but it works for me.