Panic Attacks and Anxiety Disorders: When to Seek Help

Anxiety Panic Disorder, Anxiety Disorder

Hello, Doctor.
A few nights ago, just before going to bed, I suddenly experienced dizziness and nausea, followed by a rapid succession of symptoms: abdominal pain, thirst, tension, palpitations, and chest tightness.
I tend to be an anxious person, and the sudden onset of these symptoms made me even more anxious.
I told myself to try to relax and rest, but I couldn't stop my mind from racing; my thoughts were chaotic.
Then I started to fear that I might die alone in my room without anyone finding out the next day, which increased my anxiety.
I even woke up twice in a panic while trying to fall asleep.
The entire ordeal lasted about an hour and was very distressing.
After reflecting on it and researching online, I believe it was a panic attack.

I often magnify any minor symptoms I experience, worrying whether they indicate a serious illness.
A few weeks ago, I was inexplicably experiencing random muscle twitches all over my body, which made me so anxious that I cried and couldn't sleep.
Since the beginning of this year, I've been experiencing palpitations more easily; even at rest, my heart rate can exceed 100 beats per minute, sometimes accompanied by chest tightness and shortness of breath.
I have consulted a cardiologist, who performed blood tests and an electrocardiogram, and found no significant issues.
The doctor suggested it might be due to autonomic nervous system dysregulation or heightened sensitivity of the nerves.

I have also had some compulsive behaviors since childhood.
Recently, I've been under more stress due to my father's bipolar disorder.
I'm unsure if this is contributing to my recent issues.
I would like to ask if this could be classified as an anxiety disorder? Is there a need for medical consultation, or at what point should I seek medical help? I apologize for the lengthy description, and thank you, Doctor.

Jane, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/11/05

Dr. Qiu Junda reply Psychiatry

Hello.
Anxiety or panic are both symptoms of anxiety.
The situation you described does indeed reflect a response associated with anxiety disorders.
If it persists without recovery or improvement, it is advisable to seek evaluation from a mental health professional to determine whether medication or other medical interventions are necessary.

Reply Date: 2022/11/05

More Info

Hello, thank you for sharing your experiences and concerns. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing symptoms consistent with panic attacks and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Panic attacks are characterized by sudden episodes of intense fear or discomfort that peak within minutes, often accompanied by physical symptoms such as heart palpitations, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, and feelings of impending doom. Your experiences of dizziness, nausea, chest tightness, and overwhelming anxiety align with these symptoms.

It's important to recognize that anxiety disorders, including panic disorder and GAD, can significantly impact your daily life and overall well-being. The fact that you are experiencing heightened anxiety, especially in response to stressors such as your father's bipolar disorder, suggests that your mental health may be under strain. The physical symptoms you describe, such as muscle twitching and elevated heart rate, can also be manifestations of anxiety, particularly when coupled with a history of anxiety sensitivity.

Seeking help from a mental health professional is crucial, especially since your symptoms are affecting your ability to function and causing you distress. Here are some key points to consider regarding when to seek help:
1. Frequency and Intensity of Symptoms: If you are experiencing panic attacks frequently or if your anxiety is becoming more intense and difficult to manage, it is a sign that professional help may be needed. The fact that you are feeling overwhelmed and unable to relax, even when trying to sleep, indicates that your anxiety is significant.

2. Impact on Daily Life: If your anxiety is interfering with your daily activities, relationships, or overall quality of life, it is essential to seek help. This includes difficulties in concentrating, social withdrawal, or avoidance of situations that trigger your anxiety.

3. Physical Symptoms: While you have undergone medical evaluations that ruled out serious physical conditions, persistent physical symptoms related to anxiety (such as heart palpitations and muscle twitching) warrant attention from a mental health professional. These symptoms can often be alleviated through appropriate treatment for anxiety.

4. Coping Mechanisms: If you find that your current coping strategies (like trying to relax or self-soothing) are not effective, it may be time to explore other therapeutic options. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for anxiety disorders, as it helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

5. Support Systems: Given the stressors in your life, including family dynamics and your father's mental health issues, having a support system is vital. A therapist can provide a safe space to discuss these challenges and help you develop strategies to cope with them.

In summary, based on your symptoms and the impact they have on your life, I strongly encourage you to seek professional help. A mental health professional can provide a comprehensive assessment, offer a diagnosis, and work with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs. This may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both. Remember, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, and taking this step can lead to significant improvements in your mental health and overall quality of life.

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