My Story

I had my first panic attack two years ago when I contracted a serious flu virus that made it hard to breathe. I woke up in the night gasping for breath and ended up in the hospital for 5 days. When I was released I was in constant fear that it would happen again. This lasted for about 3 months and I seemed to overcome it the fear. Just a little history on me, I have always lived a fairly healthy lifestyle, ran marathons, ate well and generally a very happy person. I am male, middleaged (over 40) and live on the west coast of Canada

This all came apart on Friday night when for no reason I suffered another one. I suddenly had trouble breathing, broke out in a cold sweat, felt sick and thought I was having a heart attack. The ambulance was called, they gave me oxygen, transported me to the ER and it turns out it was just a panic attack.

It seems to me that suddenly my world has come apart. The last 3 days have been horrible. I just feel nervous and scared that its going to happen again. I have basically stayed at home just venturing out for the occassional walk. The whole time thats all I could think about. Had to keep trying to think of other things. All this from a guy who really wasn't afraid of anything.

I just discovered these forumns and am hoping that people out there can help me cope and get my life back.

Thanks

Take some Xanax the next time you think your getting a panic attack.

Welcome to the forum

Medication isn't the answer. It's only a temporary solution. I've had panic disorder for like 4 years now and all benzodiazepines like Xanax have done for me is give me more problems. Sure, it helps with panic attacks, but continual use also turns you into a zombified shell of your former self.

Peace

Thanks for the welcome and the advice. I am the type that would prefer to do it without the help of medication if possible. Love to hear from others how they cope.

I am finding the breathing thing is helping. Anytime I feel stressed I just do slow deep breaths as per so info I found online. That seems to work so far. Thanks punk rotten

Thanks. Its good to know how others deal with it. I found driving for some reason really hard today. Had to keep my mind busy and not dwell on my anxiety.I have also set up a counselling session. Hopefully that helps too. Wonder if others have had help through counselling??