Maze,

First off I just want to say Hello and welcome to PC.

I think you have started off doing the right thing. Seeing your Doc and getting tests done to rule out any underlying conditions is the first step.

Stress can trigger a number of different physical and emotional symptoms. For me, I dont handle stress well (anymore) and I have panic attacks. A panic attack can strike anytime, out of the blu and for any reason. That is what is so horrible about it. It paralizes you with fear and your body will react to that fear with numbness, tingling and other not so pleasant symptoms. The thing to remember is, that the attacks do not last too long. I know when your in the moment it seems that they last an eternity.

When you feel one coming on, sit down (I know its hard) and close your eyes. For me, I like to do breathing excersizes initially. I slow my breathing down. I repeat to myself, in my head, that this is just an anxiety attack and nothing more. Also, trying to concentrate on other things can be a diversion.

What helped me was researching panic attacks and panic disorder. It gave me a chance to read the symptoms and feel more at ease that I was not going crazy and I wasnt going to die. It also gives you a chance to identlify with other people that suffer from the same attacks.

This place is a great place for advice and support. There is an anxiety forum here where you can post as much as you like. Talk to us about your symptoms and explain what you are feeling. It helps to put your mind at ease.

Your not alone and we are here for you.

Please keep us posted on how you are doing.

Huggles