I had a panic attack a couple of days ago at night during sleep. I thought I was having a heart attack but I wasnt sweating. After a couple of hours, the panic went away. However, I still have sudden attack, minor than the first night. Ive been managing it though I am concern, especially the lightheadness. It goes away when I lie down for sleep, but comes back when I get out of bed. I told my dad of this and he said it was just anxiety and it will eventually go away. I lost my mom last year & I quit my job, so I assume its built up stress thats causing these panic attacks. Well, I hope. Should I get checked out?
Hello thanks for asking from Chat Doctor for your health related queries can understand your concern. Loss of parent and then loss of job has probably built the significant stress which has precipitated these symptoms. The repeated panic attacks, feelings as if you had heart attack, anxiety episodes, lightheadedness, fear of sleep etc. could denote a panic disorder or anxiety disorder. As per my opinion you should consider consulting a psychiatrist for these symptoms. In most cases Behavior therapy coupled with relaxation exercises like Progressive Muscle Relaxation Exercise, Breathing Exercise help to reduce these symptoms and also reduce the intensity of attacks. If these methods don't result in improvement then medicines like SSRIs along with benzodiazepines can help. Benzodiazepines in low doses can be utilized to reduce the symptoms of severe panic, and you will be able to function normally. Thanks, hope this helps you. Take care