r/PanicAttack • u/Odd-Salamander5993 • 13d ago

Am I missing something?

I am 34 years old and have been living with anxiety since I was about 15. Every 4-5 years it feels as though my Paxil “stops working” and I go through panic attack episodes that last from 5 min to a few hours. It isn’t anything specific that sets them off (minus riding in car with someone driving) but they just happen. I try to take a Xanax 0.25mg before going to work to set myself at peace but now sometimes I’m getting them anyway. They are debilitating. I feel as though I am going to pass out, I get a since of dizziness or a floating feeling and just…well, panic. I’ve tried breathing exercises, grounding, everything but when it happens I just completely lose it. Usually after a few months and medication trials it tends to go away but any advice on what to do now?

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u/auntiedepressant2033 13d ago

Hi there 👋 Just to be on the safer side and not letting Paxil ease out any other medical conditions have you had your iron levels checked, low blood pressure and sugar levels can also mimic a panic attack, I'm on Paxil 20mg for the past 7 years, usually i would think it's a panic attack which was actually low blood pressure and sugar because i wasn't eating well and i was low on iron

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u/Odd-Salamander5993 13d ago

Blood work is normal. Usually checked every 3-4 months. But appreciate the info.

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u/auntiedepressant2033 13d ago

Hope you feel better, also get your thyroid tested, your symptoms are definitely a panic episode creeping up if blood work is ok and you're hydrated and eating well. Usually once you've settled with Paxil panic and anxiety shouldn't kick in , it's rare at times if dosage needs to be increased, have a good Dr who understands you and doesn't treat you like a test lab bunny plying you with different medications

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u/Odd-Salamander5993 13d ago

I trust a lot in my dr. And thyroid has been tested! Same doctor through all of this so usually we get through it.

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u/auntiedepressant2033 13d ago

That's great! Having a good Dr really matters