Strange Breathing Issues

[flowers0911]

I recently went to ER for distended stomach and breathing problems. A CT was done and spots were found on my lungs. I stayed in the hospital for one day for further testing. I was released the next day (Friday), but on Saturday I returned because of terrible breathing issues. I was given Ativan and it helped with the breathing. The doctors seem to think that the lung problem has nothing to do with my breathing problems. They think what I had was an anxiety attack. I will have further tests done regarding the lungs in two weeks. My question is: The sides of my throat and my nostrils felt swollen or shut. The Ativan was given to relax the muscles. Has anyone had an anxiety attack where the nostrils and throat felt like they were closing up? I have to take the Ativan every day now because without it, my throat and nostrils will close. It's so scary and I can not breathe. I'm trying to make sure this has nothing to do with the spots found on my lungs , or is it just possible, the fear of finding the spots sent me into a panic attack. I should say, the doctors are suspecting sarcoidosis.  Comments please.

[allmymarbles]

I take Xanax (a close relative of Ativan) for panic attacks (caused by high cortisol). I was given the lowest dose and told to take it only as needed. I know that if I were to take any of these related pills on a maintenance basis I could become dependent very quickly. So I am very, very careful. Xanax is miraculous and stops an attack dead in its tracks.

[flowers0911]

First of all, I like your name. Smile. I was given an inhaler, but it doesn't do anything for the neck and nostril spasms. I talked with my doctor about the problem yesterday, and he said he didn't think the lung spots were causing my other issues. He said it was possibly allergies, but I'm thinking anxiety myself because the Ativan definitely helps. I'm wondering though if it's possible to have the occurrence of breathing issues daily. I'm hoping that this will leave just as quickly as it came. And thanks so much for you response.

[allmymarbles]

The normal treatment for lung problems involving shortness of breath (asthma or COPD) is albuterol or similar medications. Ativan suggests you are being treated for anxiety, but I am not sure.  Ask your doctor to be more forthright with you.