What to do

[Bartos]

Panick attack before doctor visit and anything connected to it ex . blood test ,blood presure check . Kind of feel really stress in big places with a lots of people sometimes even on the bus but only when is full of people. So far treted with propranolol to calm it down . Any tips what to do .?

[Willow2022]

My panic attacks have been treated okay on medication but honestly, getting on the right depression medication and exercise have made a huge difference. For the occasional panic attack I have meds or pop a super sour candy in my mouth. I read somewhere the taste of super sour makes your mind snap into the here in now and stops that cyclone of panic that happens. So far, it has worked every time for me to be able to accept the panic, know I am not in danger and calm down.

Also, hearing anxiety being similar to a smoke detector really helped me:

Anxiety is a smoke detector that everyone has. Sometimes they are very sensitive and go off at the slightest bit of smoke or no smoke at all (panic attacks). It is your body’s way of keeping you safe, even from a perceived threat. Allow your body to react but know there is not fire and then allow your body to relax again.

I hope you find peace soon. Panic attacks can be hard to come out of but I know you can do it 💜

[Bartos in reply to Willow2022]

Thank you

[Spud-u-Like1982]

Bartos, I hear you! I'm terrified of needles and I need to lie down to get a blood test, as I have very weak veins and they can never get blood from my arm. I have to get it from the top of my hand, which often hurts. I have to state every time I go about it. I've also had medical professionals tell me not to make a big thing out of it. The thing is, I sat up for it once and ended up collapsing to the floor. They seem to find it funny because I'm a tall guy. I don't like the sight of blood or anyone talking about anything like that, which might sound mad, as I like horror films.

It sounds like you have white coat syndrome, which I also have. My blood pressure is always high at the doctors and I'm on ramipril for that, but my resting blood pressure is usually fine.

Best things I can suggest are taking deep breaths to try and relax. Also, rubbing your ear lobe with slight pressure might also make you feel better.

[Bartos in reply to Spud-u-Like1982]

Thx I am on ramipril as well plus propranolol to calm down so ie. if I have doctor appointment within 2 week time I am cool but day before or the appointment day I do start panic it is so strange and I can not stop it. Hope I will get rid of that just don't now how.

[punkster]

I can relate to that. I have had "white coat syndrome", which results in an increase in blood pressure whenever I see a medical professional. Covid made me very anxious to walk into a healthcare facility. I still feel uncomfortable in crowds. I have tried to reduce my discomfort in crowds by desensitization. Wearing a mask at a medical facility also helped reduce my anxiety.