Could My Symptoms Indicate Panic Disorder After a Family Loss?

If you have fainted without experiencing hyperventilation, could this be a sign of panic disorder?

Hello Dr.
Zhong, three years ago after my grandfather passed away, I started to frequently feel like I'm living in a dream, especially when I'm in the hospital.
Over time, this feeling has diminished.
However, recently, when a family member was diagnosed with a poor prognosis, this sensation returned.
When I am at the hospital, I often bite my lips or pinch my hands to remind myself that this is not a dream.
Occasionally, I experience sudden heart palpitations, feeling scared, anxious, and overwhelmed, as if I'm going crazy.
I suddenly feel very cold and can't stop shaking, feel nauseous, and my breathing quickens.
Recently, these episodes have occurred in various places such as the hospital, elevator, restroom, and crowded study rooms.

Additionally, due to these sudden heart palpitations, frequent headaches, dizziness, and gastrointestinal issues, I am very worried that I might have heart disease, a brain tumor, or stomach cancer.
I also suspect that I might have a mental health issue, which led me to discover this webpage about panic disorder.
I researched the symptoms of panic disorder online and found some similarities, but not entirely, as I have never hyperventilated to the point of fainting.
Yet, I can't help but doubt.

I would like to ask the doctor if my symptoms are due to my inability to accept my family member's illness, or if I truly have panic disorder.
If so, do I need to seek treatment? Thank you, Dr.
Zhong, for your patience in reading this.

Qiqi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/10

Dr. Zhong Mingxun reply Psychiatry

Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing some symptoms of anxiety.
Of course, when anxiety reaches an extreme level, it can escalate to the point of panic.
However, whether it is diagnosed as panic disorder may not be as important.
What truly matters is how you confront the inner turmoil you are feeling.
Separation may be a particularly challenging issue for you, and in certain situations, this discomfort may become more pronounced.
In the short term, you might consider pharmacological treatment and biofeedback relaxation training to help alleviate your discomfort more quickly.
In the long term, it would be advisable to pursue psychotherapy to effectively address the issues surrounding separation.

Reply Date: 2016/01/10

More Info

It sounds like you are going through a very challenging time, and I want to acknowledge the pain and confusion you are experiencing. The symptoms you describe, such as feeling detached from reality, rapid heartbeat, anxiety, trembling, and gastrointestinal issues, can indeed be indicative of panic disorder, especially in the context of significant family loss and stress.

Panic disorder is characterized by recurrent and unexpected panic attacks, which are sudden periods of intense fear or discomfort that can include physical symptoms such as heart palpitations, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, and feelings of impending doom. The feelings of unreality or detachment you mentioned, often referred to as derealization or depersonalization, can also occur during these attacks. It’s not uncommon for individuals who have experienced trauma or significant loss to develop anxiety disorders as a way of coping with their emotions.

Your experience of feeling like you are living in a dream, particularly in stressful environments like hospitals, suggests that your mind may be trying to protect itself from overwhelming emotions related to grief and fear of losing more loved ones. This is a common response to trauma and loss, where the mind creates a sense of detachment to cope with the emotional pain.

Given that your symptoms have intensified with the recent diagnosis of a family member, it’s possible that your anxiety is being triggered by the fear of loss and the uncertainty surrounding your loved one’s health. This can lead to a cycle of anxiety where the fear of having a panic attack in certain situations (like hospitals or crowded places) can make you avoid those situations, which in turn can increase your anxiety and feelings of isolation.

It’s important to address these feelings and symptoms with a healthcare professional. Seeking treatment is crucial, as panic disorder can significantly impact your quality of life. Treatment options typically include therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which can help you understand and manage your anxiety, and medication, which can help alleviate symptoms.
Additionally, it may be beneficial to explore relaxation techniques, mindfulness, and grounding exercises that can help you stay present and reduce feelings of detachment. Engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy diet, and ensuring you have a support system in place can also contribute positively to your mental health.

In conclusion, your symptoms could indeed indicate panic disorder, especially in light of your recent family loss and the stress that comes with it. It is essential to consult with a mental health professional who can provide a thorough assessment and guide you toward appropriate treatment options. Remember, you are not alone in this, and there are effective ways to manage and overcome these feelings. Seeking help is a strong and positive step towards healing.

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