newlifeoutlook
Coping

Don’t Panic: COPD and Panic Attacks

Jul 1, 2015
  • Practical Solution
  • Self Care
Man is having a panic attack at work

COPD and Panic Attacks: Stopping an Attack Before It Starts

I'm sure most people at some stage of their lives have experienced what they might describe as a panic attack — forgetting to pay a bill, missing an appointment or running late are just some of the reasons people may panic.

However as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients, panic attacks are one of the most frightening experiences you can have, as many times it is caused by not knowing where your next breath is coming from. While these episodes are frightening to deal with they can often give outsiders some insight into the life of a COPD patient.

Try breathing through a straw and you'll feel how hard it is to get air in and out. Then have someone give you a bear hug, restricting your chest even more — now you have some idea of why a COPD patient might have a panic attack. You can remove the straw and breathe normally, but a COPD patient's breathing will stay the same.

What Causes Panic Attacks?

Quite often, panic attacks in COPD patients are caused by breathlessness. Then, the panic attack only makes it worse! Being aware of how to avoid breathlessness is an important part of preventing these attacks. So ask yourself the question — why did I become more breathless?

Sometimes it can stem from an exacerbation in symptoms, or maybe you've forgotten to take your medication. Was there a trigger or something else in the air that has caused a reaction? Trying to trace back what has caused your breathlessness can often help you not only to avoid the trigger, but deal with it better if it happens again.

Ad Results for copd management

For me it can be as simple as a drop in temperature, smoke from a fireplace, or even having too much to eat.

You May Also Like:How to Deal With COPD During the Summer
Related Search Topics (Ads):
  • COPD Medications
  • COPD Medication Inhalers
  • Causes of COPD
  • Treatments for COPD

Identifying the Signs

Getting to know your body is an important skill in dealing with panic attacks before and after they hit. Remember what you have learned if you took pulmonary rehabilitation classes — your triggers, breathing techniques, and coping mechanisms.

The following symptoms can be signs that a panic attack could be imminent and it's important to notice them quickly:

  • Tightness of your chest
  • Increased heart rate
  • Shallow breathing
  • Redness in the face

If you notice these symptoms it's time to take action to lessen their impact. Anyone with a respiratory disease should have a management plan to deal with episodes. This can be done in consultation with your doctor and designed so you can follow through simple steps without panicking.

  • 1
  • 2
Next

Next page: planning and preventing panic attacks.

Ad Results for copd management
Russell Winwood
Russell was diagnosed with COPD in 2011, but refuses to let it stop him from living an active lifestyle. You can follow his adventures on his blog, COPD Athlete See all of Russell's articles
More Articles by Russell
Print This

We all have a voice,what's your story?

We learn from each other. Share your story to let others with know they’re not alone.

Share Your Story

COPDNewsletter Sign-up

Stay up-to-date with all the latest news, articles, and updates from your community!

Subscribe Now

Join our private Facebook Group

to ask questions, get answers, and find support from fellow Warriors!

Join the Discussion
Print This
ConnectWithUs
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Pinterest
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Disclaimer
© 2023 NewLifeOutlook™ All rights reserved.
  • Contact Us
  • Privacy Policy
© 2023 NewLifeOutlook | COPD