panic attack

[JJOHN]

I am a 59 year old man and had what the doctor at the emergency room called a panic attack, i was relaxing laying down and started to feel lightheaded and dizzy, all of a sudden I got confused about everything and thought i was dying, and it took all of my concentration just to call some one. This has never happened before and i would like some hel with this problem. thanks jjohn

[HFHS MD-JM]

John,

    People who experience panic attacks often present to the ER because the attacks are so frightening.  The emergency physicians job is to rule out medical emergencies such as a heart attack that may mimic panic attacks.  Its important that you follow up with your personal physician if recommended by the ER physician.
     What you describe is characteristic of panic attacks.  It is not uncommon for people to have isolated panic attacks.  If the attacks become more frequent and interfere with your ability to function it may represent panic disorder.  I suggest that you have a psychiatric evaluation if these attacks persist.  Please refer to the archives for more information on panic attacks/disorder.
      Remember this information is intended for general educational purposes only.  Consult your physician for specific health concerns.

Sincerely,

HFHS MD-JM

Keywords:  Panic attacks, panic disorder

[Linda]

Join the club, John. You need to get educated on your condition, cuz it may happen again, and worse. Read everything you can, this is a good place to start. Talk to your primary care physician also. Good Luck.

[Nikki]

I can relate to the feeling of "thinking you are going to die" very well. I have had panic attacks for years that include shortness of breathe and the horrible feeling that "something" terrible is about to happen. I have even had to pull my car over to the side of the road before because I thought I was going to pass out at the wheel. These attacks come on without warning and I still haven't found the underlying cause- but medication can really help (sometimes).
Believe me, I have been to the hospital myself a ton of times thinking there must be something horribly wrong with me, only to be sent home with a valium or something. It's difficult because people without the disorder will never understand the fear involved, and the feeling of being alone. The feeling of shame that you can't cope.
If you would like to talk please e-mail me personally at
***@****- maybe we can help to calm each other and just have a friend that understands and will never think your crazy.

I just wanted to offer my support- as I would like a friend in this experience as well. I have plenty of time to e-mail -Maybe we can help each other cope.
This offer also extends to others who may wish to correspond with me about this- I am only 23 but have endured the condition for as long as I can remember.
Good luck