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How do you deal with a panic attack?

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Posted 2/26/2019 9:40 AM (GMT 0)
I was in the middle of an MRI when I overheated. Then I couldn't breathe. Finally, they had to stop the MRI and had to reschedule. I was told I had a full blown panic attack. I've never been claustrophobic or had a panic attack before. The second time around I was given 10mg of valium. I really don't like taking an anti-anxiety med. Any recommendations? I'm facing having another MRI on my back. Why oh why couldn't they have done the whole back at one time? Sheesh!
Posted 2/26/2019 6:50 PM (GMT 0)
Scary isn't it? My son suffered these often in grade school. I found that putting an ice cube in his hand helped. It forced his body to focus on the physical cold feeling rather than his mind racing. A fan on high in his face also helped. Maybe they can give you an ice pack to hold next time. I hope that helps!

Post Edited (Fayeanne007) : 2/26/2019 11:53:54 AM (GMT-7)

Posted 2/27/2019 9:11 AM (GMT 0)
Thank you Fayeanne007. I'll keep that in mind formy next one.
Posted 2/27/2019 10:33 PM (GMT 0)
Hi M.,

I am so sorry that this happened to you. I have never had an MRI...but from what I have heard, I would probably not do very well...considering I don't like being in enclosed places, AND I have a medical procedure phobia!

Is there a reason why you are adverse to taking the benzo? I understand not wanting to take it everyday, or a fear of becoming dependent on a med...but as a one time/PRN Rx? It is an excellent tool to have at your disposal.

If you really want to avoid using the Valium again, you should start practicing meditation and self help relaxation skills now, so you will be ready for your upcoming appointment. Breathing is key in panic management, so be sure to have a look in our Resources, since we have many exercises that can help.

Let us know when your test is scheduled so we can keep you encouraged and in support!

S.C.
Posted 2/28/2019 1:07 AM (GMT 0)
every time I have a panic attack I grab an ice bag/ put ice in a zip lock and some times put it on my neck or lay it on my thigh.. It always seems to help me.
Posted 2/28/2019 5:13 AM (GMT 0)
Thank you S.C. and Stormlover712
Posted 2/28/2019 8:48 PM (GMT 0)
Getting a drink of water and drinking it slowly can help when having a panic attack, or if you're just feeling nervous.

What causes claustrophobia?
Posted 3/1/2019 6:21 AM (GMT 0)
MainerMikeBrown

In my case, I think it was overheating, the mask falling over my face so I couldn't breathe easily.that caused it.
Posted 3/1/2019 9:36 AM (GMT 0)
I'm sorry to hear that happened to you during an MRI. Not surprising though. I also suffer from Claustrophobia since I was little. That's why when I had my MRI, I asked the Technician if he had a face cloth to cover my eyes. It worked well for me.

I was at home during my 2nd Panic attack, just standing at the kitchen sink having a glass of water and looking outside at the flowers. Weird but I started feeling dizzy, hot, fast heartbeat. I thought that I was having a heart attack so I asked my Hubby if he could take me to the ER. The Doc said my BP was 177/90 which was high for me and he said that I was having a Panic Attack. He said the next time that happens, I am supposed to lay on the couch and put a cold, wet face cloth over my eyes.
Posted 3/1/2019 9:45 AM (GMT 0)
Wow! I was never claustrophobic before. I'd had many MRI's done in the past. This.one was in a machine that was a lot smaller than the previous ones as in literally my arms were against the side of the machine. It also heated up rapidly. Having had heat exhaustion many times I am prone to overheating. They covered me n a wool garment and a heavy heated blanket. When the machine heated up, I overheated. The hotter it got the more difficult it was to breathe and then the face shield slid down and covered my nose and I couldn't breathe. That set off my first panic attack.

I never want to go through that again unless they knock me out.
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