COPD Support Group

Ok-today is a really scarey day for me and don't know what to do. My blood pressure is 122/77 and pulse rate is 73. I feel like I could vomit and have been very dizzy today. I usually am dizzy in the morning for a short time and than passes but this time it isnt. I am worried and feel like I'm losing control over some of this. Can anybody help reassure me please???? I have severe copd

What is your BP & pulse normally? Is that really low for you?

Hi Fishgrl

Your blood pressure and pulse are quite normal.

You sound like you are having a panic attack. They can be quite frightening. But they really can not hurt you.

Basically a panic attack is your own body reacting to your own fear(s). And it is going into the flight or fright mode of dealing with a stimulus.

Assuming you are experiencing a panic attack: What you need to do is to try real hard to relax, and breath slowly and watch your tummy going up and down as you breathe.

Then you need to try to change the focus of your thoughts away from whatever is upsetting you and put your thoughts on something pleasant .

That should help.

Later after this is all over - you need top go over top the anxiety support group for more help. And you can also go over to the panic attack support group.

It is also possible you are not having a panic attack -

It is very hard for me to be sure - because you did not list what else is happening to you that you are worried about.

Certainly it is not your blood pressure - because it is quite normal. And your pulse is also quite normal.

No matter what the problem - I hope you will be feeling better real soon.

Raoul

I have a large amount of stress with older children. The copd thing scares me cause I just get so short of breath so fast and wasn't like this 6 months ago. I coughed alot but didnt notice how tired I get. I do think you are right about the panic attacks though. I am a worry wart period and the copd hasn't helped with that. I also get pretty depressed but nothing too abnormal. I am waiting on approval for SSI--I think some of it has to do with not sleeping well latley too. Thank you so much for being there. Sure helps to know Im not alone and that someone really does know what I m feeling. fishgirl

You should talk to your dr. about this, too. Panic attacks can be painful and stress is never good. Stress can cause pain, also.

fishgirl,

It is not uncommon for patients with lung disease to experience anxiety. When you struggle to breath your body's fight or flight kicks in, you get a bit of adrenaline that makes your heart race. Now you can not breath, your heart is racing and you don't know why. It is such a surprise when panic sets in. While many copd patients are on anxiety drug you can help your self with deep breathing and meditation and sometimes just knowing what is happening to your body lessens the anxiety. I hope this helps. PM me if you need more info.

Traci