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When can a panic attack occur?

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Posted 6/25/2007 4:38 PM (GMT 0)
Hello all,

I am asking this question on behalf of a friend pertaining to panic attacks.  I am unable to offer advice since I do not suffer from panic attacks but generalized anxiety.

Is it possible to get a panic attack while in a relaxed situation?  Can the panic attack involve a slow heart rate and not follow any feelings of anxiety?

Thanks for your help.

Posted 6/25/2007 4:43 PM (GMT 0)
yes- it is possible. I have the majority of mine when I am not feeling stressed, usually at bedtime.
I hear that's really common..when you finally have time to try to relax , all the anxiety pours out at once..

I havent noticed a slow heart rate..usually I feel like I can't catch my breath, like my throat is closing up, dizziness, chest pain, almost like everythings spinning ..etc. But I think it can vary a lot by individual..
Posted 6/26/2007 3:05 AM (GMT 0)
HI there
A panic attack may occur at any time and sometimes it feels like it just dropped out of the sky.
Your firend had a slow heart rate? Did she take her pulse? Also depending on her meds they may have prevented a fast heart rate.
Invite your friend to join our group. It sounds like this person would benefit from belonging to our family. We love new members
((((((((((HUGS)))))))))
Posted 6/26/2007 3:36 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Kitt,

Yes, she tracks her pulse.  That's one of the main reasons why she cannot accept that she has anxiety.  In a typical anxiety state, a person's heart rate usually goes up right? She is not currently on any meds.

I have asked her to post her symptoms on this forum but she is reluctant.  So I'm not gonna push.

Thanks.

Posted 6/26/2007 4:16 PM (GMT 0)
My pulse never went up during panic attacks, but I was getting them, and they could happen at any time. In fact, they seemed more likely to happen during "downtime".
Posted 6/26/2007 4:34 PM (GMT 0)
Good Morning,

I should have asked you yesterday what is your friend's normal pulse and does she take it frequently?

Some people are normal in the 90's and have been cleared by cardiologists.

The normal heart rate in the average adult ranges from 60–100 beats/min. Intake of nicotine, caffeine may also cause increase in heartrates.

Anxiety and panic attacks can increase heartrates but some people do not have the faster heart rates with the attacks.

Good Luck.
Posted 6/26/2007 4:37 PM (GMT 0)
MY pulse like Debaser's never goes up either in panic mode .......
Its around 80 give or take a few ..........up .......
Try to have your friend come here hun she will be welcomed warmly as you know
Or have her email one of the mods ......or members you know well
LYN
Posted 6/26/2007 6:38 PM (GMT 0)
Kitt,
I believe her heartrate hovers around 60 even during these episodes. She has been to many cardios, they can't find anything wrong with her heart or anything else so far.
I guess I can't possibly provide a full understanding of the situation here. It's very complicated. I just wanted to know whether an increased heartrate was a necessary criterion for a panic attack. The answer seems to be no. Also, whether a stressful situation or "anxious" emotions had to precede a panic attack. The answer also appears to be no.
So, that helps. Thank you all for your input and assistance. It is much appreciated.
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