Wanted to thank those who shared there private lives with panic, especially Kimmydawn. Your experience was the type of description I was looking for. I too want to take my xanax as needed but everyday like clockwork just after noon time I will get pre-panic sensations. The tingling, shallow breathing, no position is comfortable or eases symptoms. This is new to me (since about November of 2006). I can't imagine living with this every day for 3 years. You must be incredibly strong and determined. I don't want this to be who I am yet it has affected every part of my life and I am not the same person. This week I took antoher blood test and it revealed my T3-thyroid is high, low side of high and my adrenals are almost zero. So when my panic attacks come it's as if my body doesn't know quite what to do. Chemicals are released in overload, then I go into a fatigue attack. I sound drunk or on drugs and have to completely stop functioning to lie down. As I said this has affected everything in my life. I've tried to share a little bit with my co-workers and they have no clue. One co-worker thought the adrenals were sinuses. But I've told them if I pass out not to call 911 but just let me come to. How has your family dealt with this? My family is finally realizing this is physical - seeing blood test results and knowing why my body is doing what it is doing (black and white reasons) does help. Some other friends have kept away because they do not understand it or think I am mentally retarded/ill and are afraid of me. This has added to my anxiety. Have you had such experiences? As far as breathing: I catch myself barely breathing, sometimes holding my breath, or clenching my teeth or tightening my shoulders. It is true breathing is SO important. Conciously relaxing. Are you on any meds right now for panic? Thanks so much again.
Jojuli