Panic Attack or Something Else

[SpritelyImp]

Twice now on a flight I've felt ill suddenly, as if someone has turned a switch on. Too hot, like I'm going to faint, want to lie down, feel sick and weirdly pins and needles down both arms.

Does this sound like a panic attack?

Yes that does sound likely to me. But I'd book a gp appointment to discuss your symptoms with them. They should be able to help you with panic attacks if that's what they are and should you so wish.

It's the coincidence of the situation of being on a flight that makes it seem likely. In the meantime you could read a book on panic and anxiety. It might be helpful to write down the symptoms, exact situation and whether you've felt like this at other times.

It's probably a panic attack, but given it's the first time you've experienced it you should discuss with a GP for confirmation

Thank you. I should say that the gap between the two instances was about 4 years! The most recent being this week.

I'm not frightened of flying. It's so strange. I think the bit that bothers me most is the tingly arm thing. And I guess that it comes in so suddenly.

You can have panic attacks when you're not especially nervous. It's quite possible to have them when relaxing at home for example.

But it could be something else, blood sugar levels going haywire or vitamin deficiency to name but 2

Do u normally have panics? Could be just from the travelling itself ... do u get this in any other transport?

I don't think I've had a panic attack before and never on any other transport

Regardless of if it was a panic attack book for your GP to get checked over, always.

However, yes it does sound like one. Some of mine started like that, my lips & fingers & nose (🤷🏼‍♀️) would tingle & I'd suddenly need to wee, vertigo, a sense of pure dread & I go white as a sheet. They are really strange things that can happen for no obvious reason at all &, for me, being in the same situation as a previous one will absolutely be a trigger even if I'm otherwise well.

The 'TV panic attack' of hyperventilating & paper bags isn't what they are like at all.

Thank you. I will get an appointment to see the gp

I've just thought - both were on long haul night flights where the lights were low and the lucky people were sleeping. On both occasions I was sat there quietly with my eyes closed.