Question:
Please Help Panic Attack

Today I had the worst panic attack. I had panic attacks about 20 some odd years ago and then they stopped. Today I had one and really freaked. Called the pharmacist thinking it could be my new blood pressure meds but he said it was doubtful. So i am thinking it is just b/c my surgery is next week and I am really thinking alot about it. I am not scared of having surgery but i always get real panicky just before. Anyone have any suggestions that might help? Thanks everybody    — drunyan (posted on May 8, 2006)

May 8, 2006
Hi Dawn. I am sorry you are dealing with this. I had panic attacks really badly when I was pregnant with my son. I never had them again, until right before my surgery. You can 'deal' with all the stress of it, and kind of push it back in your head, but your body still has to deal with it. One way that I dealt with it was to take a hot shower and let the hot just beat down on my back and on my ribs...they hurt me so bad during and after an attack. Also, I would get a hand towel and wet it, put it in the microwave and get it as hot as I could stand it...and then lay down and put it over my nose and mouth. Just close your eyes and breathe in slowly and out (both in and out in the towel.) It really helps. I have suggested this to many other people and they all say it is amazing how well it helps. Also, if you are a spiritual person, just close your eyes and imagine Jesus standing in front of you, and ask Him for comfort. You can even imagine all those things you are stressing about and just 'give' them to Him and re-focus yourself on trusting in Him. He will give you the peace that surpasses all understanding. I hope some of this helps you...best of luck! You will be on the losing side soon! Sandra Martinez 395/335/??? RNY 02-14-06
   — Sandra.M

May 8, 2006
Hi Dawn, I don't have an answer for you but just wanted to let you know you're not alone. I'm having surgery tomorrow and totally flipped out on my hubby last night. What's worse is he's in Iraq right now, so we spent most of this afternoon e-mailing back and forth trying to figure it all out and it helped to just be able to chat with him. I'm just tired of having to deal with everything by myself. This is my 3rd operation since he's been gone. Well, my first was done the day before he left so my recovery was by myself. I had heel spurs removed from both feet Dec, Feb and now this. So just try to relax and hopefully you have someone that you can talk with. I know talking through emotions helps me a lot. good luck!
   — sarahp1101

May 8, 2006
Hi Dawn! I know EXACTLY what you're going through. My surgery is Thursday the 11th and if I worry about it too much, I start to panic. I've never had surgery before, so I know that's why I'm freaking out. I usually just try to relax somewhere take some deep breaths and think of something calming or fun or silly. Hope it helps! Good luck! Drop me a line if you ever want to chat!
   — Patti M.

May 8, 2006
I have a 12-year history with panic attacks so I understand what you are feeling. I know this is going to sound odd, but just go with them. Do not fight them...let them happen. The panic attack will be worse if you "freak out because you are freaking out." :o) Reassure yourself before, during, and after that there is NOTHING physically wrong with you, and that the attack will pass. It doesn't make them any less scary, but the duration will decrease. This is what my therapist suggested I do, and oddly, it nips them in the bud and they are less intense. Also, Xanax helps tremendously. See if your doc can prescribe some for you. And yes, any type of stressful event can trigger them again, and WLS certainly qualifies! Good luck next week!!!
   — Kellie D.

May 10, 2006
Hi Dawn. First I want to say good luck on you new journey. Or as I called it your rebirth. Now about te panick attacks, I've had them for years, I too have taken xanax for them. For me, it was a life saver. The worst attacks happened the day before and the day of surgery. My doctor had me take xanax before I went into the hospital and it helped alot. All the other suggestions were great and some did work with and without the meds. I guess what I'm trying to say is you really need to find what will work best for you. I will keep you in my prayers and know you are not alone. By the way since my rebirth in May 2005, I've had only 2 panic attacks. And one them I used the hot shower and meditation to get thru it. God Bless, Carol 303/167-lbs
   — Carol S.