Hey all, new to the site. It's finally time to admit that I needed some support...I have a mild balance disorder which, years ago, brought on panic attacks. I have been fine for a long time now, suffering only from rare dizziness.
Unforutnatley, I have had some major life changes recently, and every time I'd start to panic, I'd say "oh, it's just my ears', and I'd feel better.
My problem is that that paic is getting worse, and has NOTHING to do with my ears. I'll drive on the freeway one day without thinking twice, then the next day I'll be worried to leave my driveway, for no reason. I'll be fine in the store, until this thought comes from nowhere, asking "What if I'm not?' After the idea occurs to me, it's all over, and I smile at people while I try to leave...
The silliest/scariest symptom for me has to do with fear of lack of oxygen. Indoors or out, I suddenly become afraid that I'm going to die, becuase there is not enough oxygen around. Pretty odd, huh? then my heart starts to race and WHAM! I'm convinced I'm going to stop breathing...Why no one else around me seems to notice that there's no air, I'm not sure. For now I'm just glad I haven't told them; I'd be locked up for sure...
If I can get cool air blowing, say the A/C in the car, it helps...
SO then I deal with that everytime I become mildly nervous, the oxygen leaves the room. Has anyone else had this particular symptom? It started years ago, fear for not being able to breathe at the dentist. How it got from the dentist office to invading my daily life, I don't know...
Anyway, thanks for listening...What is it that they say? The first step to recovery is admitting you have a problem?