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Panic attack, heart attack, or heartburn?

By Anonymous January 13, 2017 - 6:48pm
 
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I will be the first person to say that I am not healthy. I am a 24 year old female, 5'5", and I weigh 190 lbs. I have always struggled with depression and anxiety, however, I've never had a panic attack. Last night, I got what felt like the most severe heartburn I've ever had. I had some ringing in my ears and a bit of a cold sweat. We didn't have any antacids, so I drank a glass of baking soda and water. It seemed like a century before I felt like I could lay down and go to sleep. I truly thought that I might die if I went to sleep. I did not have any shortness of breath or numbness that I can recall. I was very close to asking my husband to call an ambulance, but thought about the embarrassment that would come if it had just been a severe case of heartburn. Should I go get checked out for something? My symptoms don't make any sense.

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Hi, Anon.

Thanks for reaching out to us.

We cannot diagnose you, only a doctor can do this. But a panic attack can indeed make a person question whether they are having a heart attack.
I have questioned this myself a few times! Symptoms can include palpitations, pounding heart, sweating, trembling or shaking. Sensations of shortness of breath or a feeling of choking. You may have had a severe case of heartburn and panicked about it. Whatever you experienced, it was severe enough to consider going to the hospital. If you ever feel that ill again, don't let fear of embarrassment stop you from seeking medical help. I definitely think you should make an appointment with your doctor to see what is going on.

Keep us updated.

Helena

January 14, 2017 - 5:28am
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