Panic Attack or Allergic Reaction?

[Linda]

Hi...I have been reading the Med Help Urology Forum for almost a year now and I just discovered this one! I suffered through major panic attacks two years ago. I managed to get through them with medication and counseling. It took me at least one year to feel like I was okay again. Shortly after that year, I discovered I had a congenital condition called UPJ Obstruction. I was given a test that required a contrast dye. About 3 hrs. after the test I began to have shortness of breath and ringing in my ears. I was taken to ER. Once there my symptoms drastically increased to severe hyperventilation, I couldn't feel my hands, feet, or nose. I was nauseated and sweating. After over one hour they finally "knocked me out". I chalked the whole incident up to another panic attack, because I did recognize the feeling of fight-or-flight at one point. Now almost a year has passed, I had another test with dye last Friday. I was pre-medicated with Prednisone and Benadryl for it, due to history of hives after dye. Then 2 hours later, difficulty breathing with ears ringing again, and my face was bright red and flushed. That lasted 1 1/2 hrs. My question is whether this may be physical (allergic reaction) or mental (panic attack). I thought my panic attacks were gone, or are they ever? How can I tell the difference? Thanks!  Linda

[HFHS MD-JM]

Linda,

     Panic attacks can happen in many different settings and as a result of medical or psychiatric conditions.  Not everyone who has panic attacks have a psychiatric disorder such as panic disorder.  The scenario you describe to me is most likely an allergic reaction to dye with secondary anxiety.  Keep in mind that panic disorder can be a recurrent and/or chronic problem.
     Please remember that this information is intended for general educational purposes only.  Please consult your personal physician for specific health concerns.

Sincerely,

HFHS MD-JM

Keywords:  Panic attacks

[tracy]

Many people have allergic reactions to the dye used in these types of tests and there are different types of dyes available for these tests.  Usually people are pre-treated with Benadryl prior to the test, but in your case that did not help.  I would discuss this with my doctor and find out what type of dye was used for this test.  

Make sure the next time they schedule you for this test, they are FULLY aware of this reaction.  Sometimes they blow it off as panic attack, but it is a real allergy.  My father and I both have these same types of reactions.  Discuss alternatives with your doctor.