Question:
I was wondering if anyone can relate to my experiences. I had a
bad panic attack about a month ago, and then many since. I developed a
number of frightening symptoms (weakness in legs, muscle pains,
cramps, dizziness, numbness in the arms and feet, abnormal sensations
and extreme nervousness). Symptoms often did not correspond with
direct experience of an attack.
I thought I had multiple sclerosis, but a physical exam and MRI, while
not conclusive, did not suggest that this was the case. Doctors
suggest it is anxiety running out of control, reinforced by extreme
fear of illness.
I have been very reluctant to think panic related symptoms could be so
chronic and physical.
A question:
has anyone had panic disorder with (a) similar symptoms (b) symptoms
that persisted outside the panic attacks themselves?
Answer:
Sorry to hear of your panic attacks and all. You are in
good company here, I think we have all been in your shoes and lot's of
us are still wearing them. It is more common then you might have
thought, and yes, it can be very scary. Has the Dr. prescribed anything
and/or suggested therapy?
I've had/have all of these sensations plus some :) What you
described are the textbook symptoms of anxiety/panic disorder. I'm sorry you
had to go through this, and unfortunately, welcome to the club :(
Mine didn't either. I have what is called Generalized Anxiety Disorder
(GAD). My anxiety rarely involves actually nervousness. I have all day
symptoms of anxiety such as weak legs, dizziness, off balance, stomach
problems, headaches, etc. I used to have panic attacks, but since being put
on Xanax, I no longer have them (well, on occasion), but the Xanax doesn't
fully take away my GAD.
Ahhh, Hypochondria. Same here. I used to be a severe Hypochondriac. I
believe this is what caused my anxiety problems, which I've had for almost 7
years...But I'm much better now :) I've been through numerous tests to find
out why I was feeling this way. I didn't believe I was having anxiety
problems. I thought there had to be something physically wrong. I'm in
perfect health, but feel like crap :)
Yes! As I mentioned above, my anxiety rarely involves nervousness. I had
these problems for 6 years before I knew what was causing it. Another thing
is that I only had panic attacks when I felt a scary symptom, such as unable
to breath properly, faintness, etc. which would sometimes last hours or all
day. Doesn't quite make sense, does it? You know I mean?
Never fainted, or keeled over, even though I thought I was dying....
From what you describe it sounds quite feasible that you have some form of
anxiety. I have dealt with agoraphobia and have it under control atm. So if
you are in fear of illness, i could see how that could be kinda similar to
my fear of having a panic attack or a surreal sensation. Have you been
diagnosed by a specialist in anxiety disorders? Many physical conditions can
mimic the symptoms you describe, so always best to rule them out, as you did
with MS.
So yes i have anxiety and other related symptoms outside actual panic
attacks. Anticipation of having a panic attack can often be worse
physically, emotionally and mentally than actually having a panic attack
itself.
Hyperventilating - Dizziness - Nausea - Numbness, esp left side of my body -
extreme Nervousness - just some of the symptoms I have had which have
persisted for days/weeks prior to a panic attack.
If you do have anxiety, the earlier you get specialist intervention the more
likely you can stop it from becoming an anxiety disorder. Have you discussed
treatment options with your doctor. CBT therapy can be very effective IMO,
with or without medication.
