bad panic attack today!

[shellbells]

         Today I was driving and I started feeling an attack come on. Of course it starts with my heart racing, and then the feelings of losing control. I have been dealing with panic disorder for many years, so i am pretty used to these symptoms. But today was different, my attack was so severe that it was like I could not function in anyway. I pulled over and stepped out of the car. I was so lightheaded that I could not keep my eyes open. I was in such a dreamlike state. The last 4 days has been the worst for my panic disorder. I have started to get depressed and obsessive. I did see my pychologist this week, but i am starting to get concerned that maybe it is more serious then just panic disorder.If you read my posting on tuesday this week, you might get a better understanding. Do you this could be more of a serious mental illness? Thanks. God Bless All

[suzi-q]

I find that panic disorder has its ups and downs.  I can go weeks and months with the anxiety at bay and feeling pretty normal.  Then, all of a sudden, I can have weeks where I feel the panic very severely.  I don't think it is mental illness.  What does your doctor say?  I think you are just going through a cycle of bad panic and hopefully it will subside soon.  The worst thing you could do is focus on it and panic about the panic.  Just let it be and deal with it knowing it will soon subside.  Hope you are feeling better.

[Leah22]

I know how you feel. I have had panic disorder for a while now and it is awful....as you know. I was doing so well for about 5 months, then about 1 month ago, I had an awful panic attack when I was in line at a store. I seriously thought I was going to pass out or die. Honestly, I do think that you are experiencing severe anxiety right now. I agree with suzi q. Panic disorder does have its ups and downs and sometimes it gets pretty awful. I wish you well with everything!