Panic Attacks: Symptoms and Concerns for Patients - Psychiatry

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Panic attacks can be a distressing experience, often characterized by sudden episodes of intense fear or discomfort that peak within minutes. The symptoms you described—feeling very scared, experiencing tingling sensations throughout your body, nausea, and a sense of impending doom—are indeed consistent with panic attacks. It’s important to differentiate these from other medical conditions, such as seizures or other neurological disorders, especially given your concerns about epilepsy.

Panic attacks typically manifest with a range of physical and psychological symptoms. Common physical symptoms include:
1. Heart Palpitations: A racing or pounding heart.

2. Sweating: Excessive sweating, often accompanied by chills or hot flashes.

3. Trembling or Shaking: This can be quite pronounced and may feel uncontrollable.

4. Shortness of Breath: A feeling of being smothered or unable to breathe.

5. Chest Pain: This can mimic a heart attack, leading to further anxiety.

6. Nausea or Abdominal Distress: Feelings of nausea, stomach cramps, or gastrointestinal discomfort.

7. Dizziness or Lightheadedness: A sensation of faintness or feeling like you might pass out.

8. Numbness or Tingling: Often referred to as paresthesia, this can occur in various parts of the body.

9. Chills or Hot Flashes: Sudden feelings of warmth or cold.

The psychological symptoms often include feelings of unreality (derealization), fear of losing control, or fear of dying. Given that you have a history of health anxiety (hypochondria), it’s understandable that you might be particularly attuned to bodily sensations and interpret them as signs of a serious condition.

In your case, the fact that you have experienced these episodes after blood draws and during moments of stress could suggest a panic attack rather than a seizure. Seizures typically involve loss of consciousness or awareness, convulsions, and postictal confusion (a state of confusion following a seizure). If you maintain awareness during these episodes, it is less likely to be a seizure.

Regarding your medication, you mentioned that you are taking "悅康" (which I assume refers to a medication like escitalopram or a similar SSRI). SSRIs are often prescribed for anxiety disorders, including panic disorder. They can help reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks over time. However, it’s crucial to have a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional to ensure that your treatment plan is appropriate for your specific symptoms and concerns.

If you suspect that you are experiencing panic attacks, it would be beneficial to discuss this with your healthcare provider. They may recommend cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which is highly effective for panic disorder. CBT helps patients understand and change their thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to panic attacks. Additionally, learning relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, and grounding techniques, can also be beneficial in managing symptoms during an attack.

In summary, based on your symptoms and history, it seems likely that you are experiencing panic attacks rather than seizures. However, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider for a thorough assessment and to discuss your treatment options. They can help you navigate your symptoms and develop a plan that addresses both your anxiety and any concerns about your physical health. Remember, you are not alone in this, and with the right support and treatment, it is possible to manage and reduce the impact of panic attacks on your life.