What would cause a loss of memory/blackout

[tifstar]

I am a pet sitter. Today I was on my way to visit a client.  As I was driving I started to have a panic attack.  Panic attacks are not new for me, I've experienced them for many years.  The problem is that I was driving my car and don't remember anything from the onset of the attack to the point that was sitting in my living room on the couch.

For business reasons I keep a journal with my departure and arrival times.  I left my home at 4:39 pm and arrived back at home at 5:07pm.  However, I don't remember writing this down.  This means that about thirty minutes passed and I don't remember any of it.  I'm not even sure if I actually did or didn't visit my clients home.  

This is the second time I've had this type of experience.  The last time I had this sort of blackout/loss of memory was a couple of months ago.  Fortunately, I wasn't driving at the time.  

I have major depression disorder, post traumatic stress syndrome and a history of extreme anxiety and panic attacks.  About 5 or 6 years ago I had two grand mal seizures while I was sleeping.   These happened within twelve hours of each other.  At that time I could afford medical attention. My husband took me to the hospital.  From there I saw a neurologist who ran many tests including blood work, MRI's and cat scans to find the source.  

Nothing was found.  Does anyone know of anything like this?  Could it be a severe panic attack or a petite mal seizure?

My job requires that I drive, and I can't afford insurance.. please help!

[LivingInHope]

Did they ever run an EEG on you?

[jemma116]

As you have had two grand mal seizures while  you were  sleeping, it is possible that you may have had a petite mal seizure.  I do not know what tests a doctor can send you for to confirm that.

I would suggest you get your blood pressure checked out and a blood test taken to rule out anaemia.

Best wishes

[jennja1209]

this sounds very scary for you.  I have had the same things happen only i dont start to realize I am missing time till days later.  You realived in all of about an hour.  I have talked to my dr anbout the same thing she wants me to see a memory dr. that will test all parts of your emory and theappointment takes 4 hrs.  Maybe this is something you could ask you dr. about has this ever happened or is it something new?

[LivingInHope]

This must be very scary for you.  It sounds like you need more testing.  It also sounds like you should not be driving right now.  Have you considered applying for disability?