Are these symptoms of a panic attack?

Question

Some nights I'll wake right up with a horrible fear that I'm going to die. I don't have any physical pain. I just think I'm going crazy. I try to do things to take my mind off of it, watch TV, etc. After about 10 minutes it subsides. It does happen at times when I'm awake. Driving in the car when I'm sitting in traffic for one. . It's not necessarily paralyzing but that feeling is something I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy.

Thanks to everyone who answered! I don't have any physical symptoms at all. It is "all in my head". Thanks again!

Answer 1

Yes, they are symptoms of panic disorder. There are medicines now days that you can take that help with this problem I know because I've struggled from the same feelings for years. The trouble with a disorder like this is --say you have a panic attack in a public place like a grocery store, library, theater etc. Sometimes, some people, develop a fear of going to a place where you have had a panic attack . It is not because you are really afraid of these places, you are afraid of the fear the triggers the panic attack. If you don't get control, you will soon be afraid to leave your house. This can be hereditary, I believe. Or at least a learned behavior from watching a parent have the same condition. Good Luck, and don't be ashamed to talk to your Doctor. I thought I just had to tough it out and get over it, but soon realized it was hurting my quality of life.. Much better now.

Answer 2

It is common to get the sudden urge to go to the loo as a symptom of anxiety or panic. It is a natural response... you know the 'fight or flight' situation? When you have anxiety or panic attacks, it is the fight or flight kicking in, but usually at an innappropriate time. Emptying the bladder and bowels aids the body in being able to run quicker... so when the anxiety kicks in, you need to go to the loo. Addressing your anxiety by learning relaxation techniques will help you to get over the fear and the resulting symptoms.

Answer 3

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 4

A panic attack usually happens when your awake, and it feels like you can't breathe, or/and shortness of breath heart racing rapidly faster than normal. Now if you are having them in your sleep maybe you should watch how late and what you eat before lying down, that plays great part of how we sleep and what we dream and you sound like you are having nitemares.. and if it happens in traffic first of all are you a short tempered person? traffice is a (bloch) U know what I mean and it will make you go on road rage, be careful. If continue please see a doctor, I'm not sure what that doctor is called, but look for someone who specialize in sleeping disorders. Good Luck honey..And thanks for not wishing that on your worse enemy because this sucks... really sucks

Answer 5

Common symptoms of panic attacks
Rapid heart beat, pounding heart or palpitations
Sweating
Shaking visibly or inside
Choking sensations or lump in throat
Smothering or shortness of breath sensations
Chest pain or discomfort
Nausea, bloating, indigestion or abdominal discomfort
Dizziness or unsteadiness
Feeling light-headed
Derealisation (feeling unreal or dreamy)
Depersonalisation (feeling outside yourself or like you don't exist)
Fear of losing control or going crazy
Paresthesias (numbness or tingling sensations) in face, extremities or body
Chills or hot flushes
Skin losing colour
Blushing or skin blotches
Urgently needing to urinate or defecate

Experiencing different or more panic attack symptoms than are listed above does not mean that your condition is worse or different, or that you are suffering from another un-diagnosed condition. Diagnosis of anxiety disorders is very accurate so chances are you are suffering from an anxiety disorder. Some people have anxiety disorder but never suffer from panic attack symptoms.

Answer 6

Yes it could be a panic attack or an anxiety issue. The ones during sleep are usually called night terrors. See a doc and he may choose a drug like Klonopin or Valium. Also they will teach you breathing techniques to lessen an attack.

Answer 7

Check out this site: http://www.stresscenter.com/ The Lucinda Bassett CD's really helped a friend of mine overcome similar feelings. If it persists, see your doctor and perhaps -- if you can't get rid of your anxiety any other way -- you should take Lexipro or some similar anti-anxiety medication. You're going to be fine, but you have to DO something to fix your problem.

Answer 8

Please see your Doctor.It could be any thing and the Doc. will help you.Me well it happen to me to,but i had suicide's thought when i a wake,and i went and see my family Doc.and he gave me another Doc.a psychiatric this has work for me and with the pills.You no were not alone in this situation,just look around you there are a lots of people like us,but some don't say any thing cause they wonder what the others will say or think.So don't be shy and ask your Doctor please don't stay like that please.

Answer 9

Not unless you are hyperventilating and your hearts starts to beat fast, and your palms sweat; that is a panic attack. If you had those physical symptons combined with these emotional symptoms, then it would be probably be a panic attack.

Answer 10

Yes, you are definitely suffering from panic attacks. Being written up for a beta blocker would really help you - if you want to, talk to your GP about it.