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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Suggest Treatment For Anxiety And Panic Attacks

I had a panic attack a couple of days ago at night during sleep. I thought I was having a heart attack but I wasn't sweating. After a couple of hours, the panic went away. However, I still have sudden attack, minor than the first night. I've been managing it though I am concern, especially the lightheadness. It goes away when I lie down for sleep, but comes back when I get out of bed. I told my dad of this and he said it was just anxiety and it will eventually go away. I lost my mom last year & I quit my job, so I assume it's built up stress that's causing these panic attacks. Well, I hope. Should I get checked out?
posted on Fri, 13 Feb 2015
Twitter Thu, 19 Feb 2015 Answered on
Twitter Fri, 20 Feb 2015 Last reviewed on
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Psychiatrist,  's  Response
Hello thanks for asking from HCM for your health related queries

I can understand your concern. Loss of parent and then loss of job has probably build the significant stress which has precipitated these symptoms. The repeated panic attacks, feelings as if you had heart attack, anxiety episodes, lightheadedness, fear of sleep etc could denote a panic disorder or anxiety disorder. As per my opinion you should consider consulting a psychiatrist for these symptoms.

In most cases Behaviour therapy coupled with relaxation exercises like Progressive Muscle Relaxation Exercise, Breathing Exercise help to reduce these symptoms and also reduce the intensity of attacks. If these methods don't result in improvement then medicines like SSRIs along with benzodiazepines can help. Benzodiazepines in low doses can be utilised to reduce the symptoms of severe panic and you will be able to function normally.

Thanks, hope this helps you. Take care
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Suggest Treatment For Anxiety And Panic Attacks

Hello thanks for asking from HCM for your health related queries I can understand your concern. Loss of parent and then loss of job has probably build the significant stress which has precipitated these symptoms. The repeated panic attacks, feelings as if you had heart attack, anxiety episodes, lightheadedness, fear of sleep etc could denote a panic disorder or anxiety disorder. As per my opinion you should consider consulting a psychiatrist for these symptoms. In most cases Behaviour therapy coupled with relaxation exercises like Progressive Muscle Relaxation Exercise, Breathing Exercise help to reduce these symptoms and also reduce the intensity of attacks. If these methods don t result in improvement then medicines like SSRIs along with benzodiazepines can help. Benzodiazepines in low doses can be utilised to reduce the symptoms of severe panic and you will be able to function normally. Thanks, hope this helps you. Take care