I’m posting this because I’m not sure who else to
talk to about this. My name is Terry and I’m a 26 year old male. I'm a computer programmer and I often work long
hours and frequent overtime. I've been fairly successful in my career so far, but I don't have many friends, and have always been somewhat socially awkward. I'm currently dating a girl I met online, and this is my first serious relationship.
I've recently begun to experience episodes of dizziness. These episodes are starting to make me really nervous, because they happen at random times. My last episode occurred yesterday morning after I had just finished my morning can of Red Bull. I was coming back from the bathroom when all of a sudden I became quite dizzy. I started to see spots in my vision so I sat down. After about 1 minute I felt normal again. I was talking to my older brother about this several days ago and he mentioned that he used to get panic attacks that felt similar before his wedding.
I've recently begun to experience episodes of dizziness. These episodes are starting to make me really nervous, because they happen at random times. My last episode occurred yesterday morning after I had just finished my morning can of Red Bull. I was coming back from the bathroom when all of a sudden I became quite dizzy. I started to see spots in my vision so I sat down. After about 1 minute I felt normal again. I was talking to my older brother about this several days ago and he mentioned that he used to get panic attacks that felt similar before his wedding.
This has been occurring several times per day now for about 2 weeks. Sometimes I get really sweaty during these episodes, and my stomach will feel really funny like I’m free falling. I’ve never fainted, but I did have to pull over one time when I was driving and I started to see more spots in my vision than usual. I never have any pain when this happens. I’m starting to worry that I’m eventually going to pass out while driving or doing something important. I’m starting to get really nervous about this, and lately I’ve been cancelling plans with friends and just staying home or at the office because I never know what will cause these episodes. Does this sound like a panic attack? If so, What is the best way to stop it? My schedule is so packed with work and finding time to spend with my girlfriend that I just don't have time for all the counseling my brother went through with his panic attacks. Also, I'm really opposed to taking any kind of anxiety meds.
Hello Terry,
ReplyDeleteAfter reading your post, I felt compelled to respond. Life can take us in so many different directions, and at times, we can feel overwhelmed by the responsibilities with which we are faced. I heard that you are concerned that you may be experiencing panic attacks. After speaking with your brother, who has been diagnosed with panic attacks, you felt that you were experiencing similar symptoms. I cannot answer the question you posed in your writing in regards to whether or not this sounds like a panic attack. It is not my place to make recommendations; however, I feel that I must strongly suggest that you seek medical attention as soon as possible.
You have described your symptoms as episodes of dizziness, spots in your vision, excessive sweating, and an unpleasant feeling in your stomach. The symptoms you are describing could possibly be the result of a medical condition or could quite possibly be occurring as a direct result of your lifestyle choices. Either way, it is very important that you are examined in order to rule out a serious medical condition or mental health diagnosis.
Your primary care physician could be one place to start. The doctor would be able to discuss the symptoms you are experiencing. Then, the doctor could decide if further testing is needed. Large amounts of caffeine can sometimes cause the symptoms you are experiencing. It is possible that you may just need to reduce the amount of caffeine you consume on a daily basis. This is something you could discuss with your healthcare provider when you meet with them. I understand that you are opposed to taking anxiety medication, which is your right. Ultimately, any decisions regarding medication would need to be made by you and your doctor.
Another option would be to seek an assessment by a licensed social worker. Through this assessment, the different areas of your life would be explored and questions would be asked to try and determine where the areas of need are in your current situation. Catheleen Jordan and Cynthia Franklin explain that a full assessment “involves looking into people and their social environments and ascertaining problems, causes of problems, and plans for changing those problems” (Jordan & Frankiln, 2011, p. 4). If you are experiencing panic attacks, the social worker could provide you with different interventions to try when the symptoms begin.
Terry, please take some time for yourself and meet with a professional regarding your current concerns. I realize that you are concerned about what treatment might look like, since you have spoken with your brother and he has explained what he went through. However, if treatment is needed, it may look very different than what your brother experienced. It is important to keep an open mind when discussing treatment options with your healthcare provider. Please try to remember that every person is different, and has different needs.
Sincerely,
Anna