Think I suffer with panic attacks

[DiamondsOne]

I've been to the Doctor for blood tests etc and everything is normal but I get these horrible symptoms - often when I travel on the underground or it has happened in a resturant a couple of times. The Doctor was reluctant to put me on medication and advised a bit more exercise for starters. I said I sometimes get some chest pain too - she listened to my heart but said everything is normal and it is probably the anxiety.

I think I am an anxious person anyway but sometimes I tend to become aware of my breathing and heartbeat - but I don't get palpitations, shortness of breath or a racing heart. Then I feel as if something really bad is about to happen - like I will pass out or be sick and I have to try really hard to calm myself down. Sometimes I do feel really nauseous and do have to get off a train or go outside and get some air. When it passes I start to feel normal again, my tummy rumbles like I need something to eat but I still feel slightly odd for the next few hours.

I'm not at breaking point or anything but it has got the point that I worry a bit about how I will feel travelling to work in the morning - that's the other weird thing - it seems to be worse in the mornings and not just work days.

[yellowpiXi3]

the key with panic attacks is that it's a cycle of thoughts and feelings. you have to break that cycle. if you are hyperventilating try holding your breath and count to 10 if you can't hold your breath for more than 5 seconds you need to calm your breathing.

most important you HAVE to know that you are having a panic attack. some thoughts and feelings MIGHT FEEL real... but they are not. try writing your thoughts down when you have them. find away to calm yourself down whatever that maybe.