need to get a grip

[idahoRN]

In the last couple months, I have awaken about 3am with burning in my face, chest and arms.  I have cold sweats and this overpowering sense of fear.  I am an RN and have the ability to know that this is anxiety not a heart attack, but it doesn't change the way I feel.  I work 40hrs/wk at a hospital and take care of the books for a business my wife and I own.  I have 3 kids all starting sports.  I'm guessing stress?  However, can sleep apnea cause these middle of the night attacks?  I don't seem to have problems at any other time of the day.  A friend suggested taking an herb called ashwaganda, but I know nothing about it.

[fuzzy882]

You have alot on your plate guy. But, I have to commend you for all that you are doing.  Is there a reason that you are not seeking the advise of a trusted dr.?

[cj29]

I agree with JS.  Go ahead and talk to your doc about any of your health concerns and if everything checks out okay, maybe try going to see a mental health care professional.  I have found talking to someone that understands this is a great way to confront and deal with it.

[JSGeare]

I should hope that among your resources as an RN is a community of doctors who include one or two who can consult with you on this.

My opinion is that the apnea -if indeed you have that- can be sort of scary in and of itself, especially if it comes with a dream about suffocation or some such (which may NOT be rememebred). So, if you have a predisposition to anxiety/panic, then I can scarcely imagine not breathing would come as a relaxing change of pace.

The herb? I dunno. But the talk of herbs will no doubt bring a flurry of responses and enthusiatic testimonials about a few of them. The problem with an herb or a med or any particular "thing" is that it gets us into the try this, try that syndrome. How about a consult with a trusted doc (there's always one or two) at work?

Let us know, please, how it all goes.