How can severe panic attacks be managed safely at 24?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am a 24-year-old female. Recently, I had a breakup. Currently, I do not have a job, and so, mentally, I am feeling insecure. I am getting severe panic attacks for no reason. I do not even want to go out of my room. I feel sleepy all the time.

Whenever I go out, I feel that I am going to have a heart attack or stroke. My feet get cold, and I feel like I am going to fall. My dad died of a heart attack, and from childhood, many close people have misled me. I have been facing the above issues for more than eight years, but the severe anxiety started recently.

Please help me.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern. Recurrent severe panic attacks should be evaluated. Thyroid function tests should be done to rule out hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism is an important cause of panic attacks. You have a fear of getting a stroke or a heart attack, and this could be occurring due to severe health-related anxiety.

This is the probable reason for recurrent panic attacks and other symptoms you are having. First of all, you have to accept that it is very unlikely that a girl of your age gets a heart attack. It is very uncommon. Visit a psychiatrist for proper treatment of your symptoms.

Drugs like SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) can be used to get the best results. Fluoxetine, Paroxetine, Sertraline, Escitalopram, etc., are approved drugs for recurrent panic attacks and anxiety disorders. These drugs are safe to use and are free of serious side effects.

I hope this helps.

Thank you and take care.

Regards.