Are these panic attacks? Should I see somebody?

Question

I need help!! Do these sound like panic attacks or is it my mind just playing tricks, should i see a doctor? Examples: 1) We were in a big city lots of people and as we were walking up the streets and in the concert, it was hard to breathe .. just very hard to catch up on my breathing to the point i thought my chest was closing 2) Going to the doctors I get very nervous, my heart beat starts going faster my palms get all sweaty. When im sitting there my words all muffle up becuase i feel soo uncomfortable to the point where im dizzy
3) Have to present a presentation in front of a classroom full of people who i know but get all worked up heartrate rockets, my words all slur together becuase i get so confused becuase what i have in my head is erased becuase of fear of looking stupid?
4) I have dreams that someone in my family has died and how my life changes for the worse because of it. 5) Being in closed places ex_offices, airplanes, trians etc
Any help or leads woudl be great!

Answer 1

Classic anxiety and panic attacks. Get a physical to be sure there isn't something else. Then get some good books on panic and how to master it. It can be done.

Answer 2

You sound like you are suffering from anxiety disorder.

Firstly, the panic attacks; remember that although they are very unpleasant and you may feel like there is something physically wrong with you, they can't hurt you and will pass. During a panic attack sit somewhere quiet or stand for a moment and take a few deep slow breaths in through your nose and let each one out slowly. Really concentrate on each breath. This helps your body to relax.

Practising relaxation can really help too. Buy a relaxation tape, preferably one that talks you through it. To be effective it needs to be done daily.

Look at what in your life is causing you anxiety and face up to it. Get help from a professional if you need to.

Now when giving presentations it is natural to be nervous some people a lot more than others. One of the key things is to know your stuff inside out and make sure that you have practised it a couple of times in front of people you trust. Remember deep breathing before you go to do it. If you know your stuff well this will increase your confidence.

It would be wise to seek help for your anxiety now so that it does not escalate any further. Good luck.

Answer 3

I used to have lots of panic attacks, until I realized I could control them. It doesn't work for everyone, but when you feel a panic attack coming on 1. recognize that its your body overreacting to a situation, thought, or something unknown. A panic attack is nothing more than your body releasing too many "fight or flight" hormones. 2. Breathe! Take deep breaths. If you are hyperventilating, try to slow and steady your breaths. 3. Reassure yourself! Self talk is key. Tell yourself you're fine, "Its okay, nothings happening to you, you're fine, just breathe, its okay, you're okay." Just keep reassuring yourself and keep breathing until it passes. Part of a panic attack is your response to what's happening in your body. If you recognize what's going on and consistantly reassure yourself, you may be able to stop a panic attack before it takes over. If You can't learn to stop them then I would suggest medication, because no one should have to live in fear of another panic attack. I don't know how old you are, but if you're legal, alcohol by its very nature, counteracts a panic attack, because its a depressant. But I'd be careful about using alcohol to stop all panic attacks because this could inevitably cause dependence. I would only use alcohol as a last resort, and not as a long term solution.

Answer 4

I have read some litterature about panic attacks. But they allways seem to have a more scientific approach and that is nothing I need in my struggle to survive those horrible panic attacks. This is a "hand on" and very practical book. I felt it was written to me. I am sure that you are going to feel the same.

Joe Barry writes exactly how I think. The examples are perfectly described. And the method is genius. I recommend this book and thanks Joe Barry for writing it. It changes your life

Answer 5

Sounds like panic attacks to me, too. Go to the doctor.

Answer 6

Those are text book panic attacks. Talk to your doctor and see a therapist.

Answer 7

Your problem is a complex one. You have to consult a clinical psychiatrist and start treatment. The drugs Paroxetine (Paxil) or Sertraline (Zoloft) is the most appropriate options for you.

Read these pages:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social_anxiety_disorder

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agoraphobia

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anxiety

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panic_attack

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/OCD

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Selective_serotonin_reuptake_inhibitor

Do not worry. These drugs take 3 weeks to 3 months to show complete results. Stick on to the treatment. Best of luck.

Answer 8

I have very similar feelings. What helps me is to relax, remain calm, and think positive thoughts. It helps to talk with someone (family member, friend, therapist, even someone online). Also, write down positive attributes about yourself. Don't let your mind control you, but you control your mind.

Answer 9

yes it sound like panic and anxtiety the best thing too is have ck out there is meds for it good luck

Answer 10

I agree with IMOK you need to see someone soon, not to worry you but before those "Panic Attacks" get worse.