Aa
panic attacks
I suffered panic attacks and constant anxiety since mid 2001. For about one year, I had panic attacks 2-3 times a day. I am no longer anxious 24/7 but I suffer massive anxiety at work when it gets busy. Recently I read that there research linking panic attacks to heart attacks ,in young women too( due to spasms of coronary arteries, hardening of arteries etc). This is throwing me right back to constant anxiety as I cannot stop obsessing over the possibility of heart attack. One of my coping strategies for calming myself during a panic attack was to reassure myself that I will not suffer from stroke or from heart attack. I am scared to be without this coping strategy.I am 32 year old female. I have had a normal result on an echocardiogram 12 months ago (I had anxiety related palpitations). I experience tight heart, pains down left arm, chest pains, dizziness, feeling faint... pain is usually sharp). Dr says its anxiety.
My question is, statistically, what are my chances of suffering a heart attack any time soon given my condition (I am a type A personality, not obese, no high blood pressure, I exercise for 30 min per day, my mother,at 53, is similar personality and suffers anxiety and has been a heavy smoker for 30 years , neither of my parents have heart problems but my father's mother has (she is in her seventies and is still alive). I need some answers as I was due to move interstate which will put additional pressure on me. Im thinking maybe I wont move which makes me upset. I am on low dose antidepressant and had counselling for 1.5 years. Desperate...PLEASE HELP.
My question is, statistically, what are my chances of suffering a heart attack any time soon given my condition (I am a type A personality, not obese, no high blood pressure, I exercise for 30 min per day, my mother,at 53, is similar personality and suffers anxiety and has been a heavy smoker for 30 years , neither of my parents have heart problems but my father's mother has (she is in her seventies and is still alive). I need some answers as I was due to move interstate which will put additional pressure on me. Im thinking maybe I wont move which makes me upset. I am on low dose antidepressant and had counselling for 1.5 years. Desperate...PLEASE HELP.
Hi True,
Panic attacks are tough. The can look and feel just like a heart attack. Fortunately for you though, your risk of a heart attack is very low. From what you wrote, you don't have the traditional risk factors: tobacco, diabetes, family history, high blood pressre or obesity. You didn't mention your cholesterol to round out the risk factors, but your risk is very low.
I would not let this influence your decision ot move.
Good luck!
Panic attacks are tough. The can look and feel just like a heart attack. Fortunately for you though, your risk of a heart attack is very low. From what you wrote, you don't have the traditional risk factors: tobacco, diabetes, family history, high blood pressre or obesity. You didn't mention your cholesterol to round out the risk factors, but your risk is very low.
I would not let this influence your decision ot move.
Good luck!
I believe the heart attack risk increases ONLY If you already developed a heart disease. If you don't have a heart disease then the risk is nil.
Panic disorder is difficult to deal with as I have one too. You are STILL YOUNG and have a long way. The best thing you can do right now is treat your panic disorder.
-jeff
Panic disorder is difficult to deal with as I have one too. You are STILL YOUNG and have a long way. The best thing you can do right now is treat your panic disorder.
-jeff
Yeah only if your arteries are already diseased then panic attack can bring on a heart attack.
Spasms are not common but usually are causes by cocaine abuse or they do not have enough Nitrous Oxide in their blood.
Yeah you should maybe see a psychiotrist(sp? and maybe he/she can help cope with your panic disorder.
Spasms are not common but usually are causes by cocaine abuse or they do not have enough Nitrous Oxide in their blood.
Yeah you should maybe see a psychiotrist(sp? and maybe he/she can help cope with your panic disorder.
Dear True:
I also have an anxiety disorder so I know where you are coming from. You have to treat the anxiety. You may want to find someone in your area who does E.M.D.R. You can do a google search on this technique. This was the best thing I did to help lessen the panic and anxiety. The method is quick and doesn't take a lot of sessions to see a benefit.
Also, keep doing the heart healthy things you are doing. If your antidepressent isn't working...maybe another one would be of more assistance. It gets better, don't give up : )
I also have an anxiety disorder so I know where you are coming from. You have to treat the anxiety. You may want to find someone in your area who does E.M.D.R. You can do a google search on this technique. This was the best thing I did to help lessen the panic and anxiety. The method is quick and doesn't take a lot of sessions to see a benefit.
Also, keep doing the heart healthy things you are doing. If your antidepressent isn't working...maybe another one would be of more assistance. It gets better, don't give up : )
I suffered panic attacks starting when I was in my mid thirties, my heart would race, and I have had a lifelong GP doctor/friend who explained what was happening, and eventually a drug plus acceptance of life on it's terms let me get rid of those moments.
However, I worried if I would recognize a heart attack and let it go, thinking I had a panic attack.
Understand, I smoked, drank too much, was overweight, didn't exercise, worked way to hard, I'm diabetic with a family history of heart trouble (re-read the good doctor's advice). Surprise! I had a bigtime heart attack, and I can tell you, young lady, you will know the difference! It's not just the pain, it simply is something you would recognize. I quit all that, started exercising, lost weight, quit drinking so much, quit smoking, and I'm doing fine. Occasionally I'll get a panic attack but I've worked really hard to learn coping skills, and I can deter the panic attack using these skills.
There was a big difference between panic attacks and my heart attack, and my lifestyle caused my heart attack, not the panic attacks.
Find a doctor you respect, follow the advice, and be good to yourself.
I've followed this bulletin board for six years almost daily. It is a wonderful resource.
However, I worried if I would recognize a heart attack and let it go, thinking I had a panic attack.
Understand, I smoked, drank too much, was overweight, didn't exercise, worked way to hard, I'm diabetic with a family history of heart trouble (re-read the good doctor's advice). Surprise! I had a bigtime heart attack, and I can tell you, young lady, you will know the difference! It's not just the pain, it simply is something you would recognize. I quit all that, started exercising, lost weight, quit drinking so much, quit smoking, and I'm doing fine. Occasionally I'll get a panic attack but I've worked really hard to learn coping skills, and I can deter the panic attack using these skills.
There was a big difference between panic attacks and my heart attack, and my lifestyle caused my heart attack, not the panic attacks.
Find a doctor you respect, follow the advice, and be good to yourself.
I've followed this bulletin board for six years almost daily. It is a wonderful resource.
True -
I have suffered from a few panic attacks this year. I am 24 years old. I am in excellent physical shape. I went to the ER one night about 5 months ago because of a panic attack. The doctor asked if I was stressed, which I was. But something didn't add up. I'm not the kind of person that lets stress get to me. The doctor mentioned that I should get my thyroid checked out. I began to research the thyroid and I have found compelling evidence that my thyroid is to blame. I recommend that anyone with panic or anxiety read the book "Thyroid Power" by Dr. Shames. He has a website too: Thyroidpower.com. Keep in mind that there are several other reasons that panic attacks can occur: adrenal gland problems, kidney problems, yeast syndrome. I would look into all of these; and be ready to lay down the law with your doctor. My doctor did a thyroid test (TSH), and it was normal. He said "you're fine". I said "I want another test". So we did a Free T4. It was fine. He said "you're fine". I said I want to see an endocrinoligist. She did a test for antithyroid antibodies, and said "you're fine, go back to your primary care". So I did. Finally, we did a Radioactive Iodine Uptake Scan and Thyroid Scan. The Radiologist said "you're developing hypothyroidism". I said "oh really, I've been telling my doctors that for 6 months!" So my advice: DO YOUR RESEARCH!!!
I have suffered from a few panic attacks this year. I am 24 years old. I am in excellent physical shape. I went to the ER one night about 5 months ago because of a panic attack. The doctor asked if I was stressed, which I was. But something didn't add up. I'm not the kind of person that lets stress get to me. The doctor mentioned that I should get my thyroid checked out. I began to research the thyroid and I have found compelling evidence that my thyroid is to blame. I recommend that anyone with panic or anxiety read the book "Thyroid Power" by Dr. Shames. He has a website too: Thyroidpower.com. Keep in mind that there are several other reasons that panic attacks can occur: adrenal gland problems, kidney problems, yeast syndrome. I would look into all of these; and be ready to lay down the law with your doctor. My doctor did a thyroid test (TSH), and it was normal. He said "you're fine". I said "I want another test". So we did a Free T4. It was fine. He said "you're fine". I said I want to see an endocrinoligist. She did a test for antithyroid antibodies, and said "you're fine, go back to your primary care". So I did. Finally, we did a Radioactive Iodine Uptake Scan and Thyroid Scan. The Radiologist said "you're developing hypothyroidism". I said "oh really, I've been telling my doctors that for 6 months!" So my advice: DO YOUR RESEARCH!!!
Thank you so much to everyone who replied to my post. I truly appreciate it. To Flycaster, any tips about deterring panic attacks that you could share with me? I am due to go on a 3.5 hr flight and am quite terrified...my biggest phobia. I have various coping skills but Im not sure how well they will go on the plane.
"why" "don't" "you" "give" "it" "a" "rest" "already"
I think you are obsessed with Hank personally
I think you are obsessed with Hank personally
I think think he/she is obsessed with pluto. I would say that pluto is a very intellegent man with knowledge on cardiology. The
mans knows his knowledgable facts on the cardiovascular system.
mans knows his knowledgable facts on the cardiovascular system.
I am deeply saddened by the fact Pluto is no longer posting. This is one area where he greatly helped me because he can relate. It trully is a shame that a couple people ran him out. Its more of a shame that Kaloopa keeps beating on him for no reason. Get a life! And Pluto if you are still reading this board please come back and comment. The amount of people that have bennifited from your posts far exceededs the two or three that are dysfunctional. I know that Pluto talking about his divided doses of meds got me to ask my doc if it would help me to divide my doses and it did.
Wow. I dont think the kind people providing this service and answering our questions for free need this forum to deteriorate into a slinging match. Lets show some gratitude and keep it relevant.
OH MY GOD! dont you people read this and understand what it means? The "Comments" posted below are provided by individuals and reflect their personal opinions only. Under NO circumstances should you act on any advice or opinion posted in this forum. ALWAYS check with your personal physician before taking any action regarding your health! Med Help International and our partners, sponsors and affiliates have no obligation to monitor any "Comments" posted on this site, or the content and/or accuracy of such exchanges. Med Help International does not endorse the views of any user.
Now..I can give all the 'medcal' adice I want to here and so do many in here not just Hank. If your the moron who follows the advice without consulting your Dr. well then your the moron!
Now..I can give all the 'medcal' adice I want to here and so do many in here not just Hank. If your the moron who follows the advice without consulting your Dr. well then your the moron!
I am sure you can find a 'real' doctor to take care of your nose and that broom you can't seem to get rid of.
I feel very sorry for you. You are full of hate. You must have no friends and I'm sure your husband is make believe too. (as well as your sex life) Who would want you. How sad. Go find an anger forum. You'll be right at home there.
This forum exists to help people and to share experiences and advice. Such a forum has no room for evil, inconsiderate, twisted people.
Wow!! What did I miss? How did this turn into a personal grudge match. I for one am a long time fan of hankstar. He has helped me out with my anxiety problems, which is why I was getting into this discussion for the original poster. I feel bad for anyone who is going through anxiety problems. There are avenues for help...I am pretty much over my anxiety...it keeps coming back once in awhile but the key is staying in control. Good luck! As for hankstar, he gives great advice. If you want to follow it, fine. If you don't, no one is making you. One thing about hank is that I have never seen him stoop to a personal level like so many other posters have towards him in this category. If someone is giving bad or dangerous advice, I'm sure such posts will be deleted by the moderator. If you are trying to establish a power base, really...this isn't the place to do it. Join a club. This has always been a site for mature exchanges of information. Let's keep it that way! Hank, if you read this, hope you are OK and that no one has goaded you into ending your valuable contributions!
Hi !! Congratulations to CCF staff, this is a very good forum and doctors
This forum is intended for all persons desiring to improve their health. Th opinions expressed here are from laypersons and not people who are medically qualified to dispense medical information. Most posters have opinions or theories they have garnered through the hard knocks of life and hope that by sharing them here they will improve someone elses quality of life. Poster's are not trying to tell someone to use their advice on it's own merits but should consult a medical practicioner to help make a final decision. Remember how good it feels to help someone out of a bad situation. This is no different. Respect for all posters is needed.
I think Hank is misunderstood as in his posts he often says things like "always follow the good doctor's advice", etc., before or after giving his opinion, he has never pretended to be "a doctor", or in my opinion is remotely interested in being thought thus, to my mind he has just tried to talk, in layman's language, to fellow sufferers, to help fellow sufferers, and aren't we rather defeating the object here with all this foolishness - the object being to support each other??
I find it easier personally to talk to a fellow sufferer than a doctor about my heart problems as with a doctor I always feel rather stupid.
Klonopa - I'm really sorry you've had a rough time but I can't quite understand what Hank has ever done to you??
Let's put this thing to bed now and move on. Hope you'll start writing again Hank.
Best Wishes to all, Linda
I find it easier personally to talk to a fellow sufferer than a doctor about my heart problems as with a doctor I always feel rather stupid.
Klonopa - I'm really sorry you've had a rough time but I can't quite understand what Hank has ever done to you??
Let's put this thing to bed now and move on. Hope you'll start writing again Hank.
Best Wishes to all, Linda
Dear True,
I too have suffered from panic attacks for many many years. I have changed antidepressants several times but if they try to increase the lowest dosage I get panic attacks again. My psych added Xanax to my medication and it was a miracle. I still do not like to fly but I take an extra xanax before the flight and I am fine. I do not increase my Xanax just rearrange how I take it. I have to take it several times a day but they now have Xanax XR which is a once a day medication. Ask your doctor for it. It will stop all your worries and will let you fly. Keep your Paxil low dose and I think you will have relief. Don't use your regular doctor. See a psych. They are the only ones who helped me. Good Luck
I too have suffered from panic attacks for many many years. I have changed antidepressants several times but if they try to increase the lowest dosage I get panic attacks again. My psych added Xanax to my medication and it was a miracle. I still do not like to fly but I take an extra xanax before the flight and I am fine. I do not increase my Xanax just rearrange how I take it. I have to take it several times a day but they now have Xanax XR which is a once a day medication. Ask your doctor for it. It will stop all your worries and will let you fly. Keep your Paxil low dose and I think you will have relief. Don't use your regular doctor. See a psych. They are the only ones who helped me. Good Luck
I visit this site quite regularly but have not logged in for a week or so and when I did today I was so shocked by all the nasty comments being posted. What is wrong with you people? this is a fabulous site and most of us come here to share our experiences and gain comfort from one another. Pluto has given many people advise and comfort and has always said to check with your doctor if you are concerned about anything. Surely no-one would go blindly ahead just on his advise alone without checking with your doctor. It is so nice that someone takes the trouble to re-search our problems and tell us things we didn't know, if you are stupid enough to follow someone's post without checking with your doctor then the consequences must be yours alone. I will miss you Pluto if you don't come back,you have helped and comforted many of us.
Take care
Take care
I visit this site regularly and have not logged in for a few weeks and was shocked when I did today at all the nasty comments being posted. We all come to this site for advice and comfort and I cannot understand what is wrong with you people who are posting nasty comments. Pluto has given lots of us advice and comfort and has always said to check with your doctor, surely you are not stupid enough to blindly follow someones advice on a post without a medical opinion? Pluto has taken the time and trouble to re-search a lot of our problems and given us information we may not have had the time to look up ourselves. Please keep these comments friendly,we have enough anxiety in our lives without having to put up with nasty people on this site as well. I will miss you Pluto, take care and all the best if you read this.
sorry guys, I thought my first post had been lost! So I wrote it again trying to remember what I said in the first place. My apologies!!
Thanks for the info. Is xanax a sedative? I actually came to the conclusion that I will trial valium before the flight to see if it helps. I felt very optimistic until I read a serzone handout (the antidepressant Im on) which said that Im not to mix serzone with any sedative medication or any medication which makes you sleepy. Serzone has been linked to liver failure and in some instances death (where it was taken along with other medication ...not sure which). So Im now back to square one and I dont know what else to do.
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