Does this sound like a panic attack or something else?

[andallthat]

I have had these night-time attacks about three times a year for the past 10 years. I assumed they were panic attacks, but I was describing them to someone and they said they didn't really sound like panic attacks.

I only get them at night, and they wake me up. My heart rate is faster than normal but not by a massive amount, although the beat is very very strong. I don't really feel fear or panic, more total confusion, like I've completely lost track of who I am and my thoughts are all disordered. They can last for hours, and go in waves. Usually, I throw up and then they end, and I crash out into the deepest sleep and sleep for hours.

I don't get them at any other time, they are not connected to any periods of stress or bad dreams, just happen randomly 2 or 3 times a year. Beta blockers don't work on them.

Does anyone recognise this?

I doubt it's a panic attack if they're only happening during the night. Beta blockers should also work if they're panic attacks.

Do you get any palpitations or fluttering? Do you eat chocolate or any caffeine? These can make palpitations occur.

I think you should see your gp and have some tests because it doesn't sound like panic tbh. I've had panic attacks on and off for years and they usually occur during the day, during stress, in shops, after caffeine or chocolate and are easily relieved with beta blockers.