Help Please

I have been back from Iraq now for about two years and i have some bad anxiety issues. At anytime I can have a major episode like yesturday when i went to see new moon and later when i went to my cousins house warming party. I cant control it and it is making my relationship strain. Why would i have a major panic attack causing symptoms of severe ammonia and burnt metallic smell through my nose bringing me back to consciousness? Why would i almost pass out and why would my brain feel numb? Sometimes i get these sharp pains in my head and my brain and arm feel like they're not there. Any explaination<3

[nursegirl6572]

Hello and welcome!  

If I could ask you a few questions, just to clarify some things you mention in your post...

When exactly do you get this "smell"...and when it happens, is it the same each time (ie just as strong, same kind of smell, same duration, etc)?  HOw frequently does this happen?     You describe the smell as being LIKE smelling salts, if I understood correctly?  Or, have people used salts on you in this condition?  Have you actually passed out...or just felt as though you were going to any minute?  

Surely sounds like you are experiencing panic attacks, IMO.  When was the last time you saw a doctor for a check-up?  Since this started, have you been to a doctor?  I think it is important for you to see a psychiatrist after any possible  physical cause is ruled out (by your PCP)...because he/she will be able to give you an official Dx, which helps in formulating a plan.  Being that you are newly returning from overseas, where you were  in a totally different culture, facing danger, etc...you could just be having some trouble reacclimating. Or, it could be a little more severe, where you've started developing an anxiety disorder (most likely as a direct result of your recent deployment).  

If you could clarify those few ?'s, I may be able to shed a bit more light on the possibilities.  You've come to the right place....there is a lot of support and info here...you are far from alone in this struggle!  Hang in there!!!

Most importantly, than you for your service to this country!