My First Panic Attack

Well I think I just had my first panic attack last night. I was laying on my couch reading when my heart just started pounding. I got the chills, my hands got clammy, and I started shaking all over. I got up walked around, took some deep breathes, and my heart rate went back down. I went to bed about an hour later. Soon as I layed down my heart started pounding again. At one point when I measured it was up to 115. Usually my resting heart rate is around 68-72. Needless to say I got very little sleep last night as my heart continued to pound. Right now I'm hovering around 95 - 105. I have a slight pain in my chest on the left side right above my breast. I've had this pain off and on for the last few weeks. I've been to the ER twice in the last month for chest pain. 2 EKG's, a chest xray, bloodwork, and urinalysis all came back fine. I still have this intense fear that I have a heart problem even though I have no history of heart disease.

Thanks! I ended up going over to my urgent care. They did yet another EKG (which again was normal) and diagnosed me with anxiety. So at least I now have some meds to help calm me down when I get to the point I was at. And I actually have felt my heart slow down after taking it. I don't feel the constant pounding anymore and the chest pain is gone.

Hi LS84 and welcome!

I am so sorry for the scary and confusing and confusing episodes of anxiety you've been experiencing lately.:(

However, you have taken the right steps toward getting the help that you need...so well done, and I am sure you are going to be feeling much better soon.

In addition to your Rx...there are great coping skills that can be learned to manage anxiety and avoid future attacks. At the top of the first page here, you'll find our Resources.

There is a whole collection of self-help material there that you can get started on today if you like.

Let me know if you'd like any specific suggestions...or just look around and see what fits for you!

Post anytime for understanding and encouragement...support it key!

S.C.

When I first started having panic attacks they were usually at night. I too started to associate laying down with them and could feel my nerves start once i did. I used to read or watch tv to distract myself but now that I'm on klonopin at night it knocks me right out. I hope yr doctors visit is a good next step to recovery.