Thursday, January 11, 2007

I'm Freaking Out

I’m at work and I keep getting sharp shooting pains in different parts of my head. I’m trying to ignore them and stay calm, but I think I’m having a stroke. I can’t go to the bathroom or take a walk because I’m afraid I’ll pass out and die. Rey is in class, so I can’t call him. I don’t know what to do with myself. I’m starting to hyperventilate. Help!

8 comments:

Lacy said...

*breathe* Go to the bathroom...take deeeeep breaths.

Sharp shooting pain is not a symptom of stroke. If anything, you'd have no feeling at all. Wiggle your fingers, wiggle your toes, sing your ABC's.

You are okay, Leila...Promise.
*hugs. I've been there a hundred times...so have you...and we are still here, love.

Leila V. said...

Thanks, Lacy. I needed that.

After an hour of freaking myself out, I think I'm starting to realize I'm not dying. And that it probably would've happened by now. But I can't be sure.

Lacy said...

we'll get through this crappy thing called anxiety with "a little help from our friends." ;)

Anonymous said...

Hey Leila,

I just ran across a couple of good books that I am just atrting to delve into. I've suffered anxiety my entire life (panic attacks, extreme health worries and all) and there are things in these books that I haven't tried and things that I think may be worthwhile.

Here they are:

From Panic to Power
By: Lucinda Bassett

When Panic Attacks
By: Dr. David Burns

Maybe you've already heard of them, but either way they are providing some comfort for me now so I thought I'd share.

We'll make it through this - we really have no choice.

Much love,

Kristen

Unknown said...

I don't know if this will help you or not but I get those feelings all the time and I am always convinced I am having a stroke. What I do is when I start to freak out I pop a peppermint candy in my mouth. I have tried other hard candies and pepermint (for me) is the only thing that works.

Last night I went to CVS and had been feeling anxious all day (What else is new right) had a attack inside CVS got sick in the bathroom. didn't have peppermint, came home and had to lay in bed for an hour sipping tea and sucking on peppermint. I bought 2 big bags there but these are the soft peppermints and they are OK but the hard ones work better.

I wish I was there to give you a big hug.

Michelle

Leila V. said...

Lacy:
You're the best. ;)

***

Kristen:
Lol, you make a good point, there really is no other choice. I’ll have to check out those books. I’ve heard of Lucinda Bassett, and been to her site a few times. She has some good self-assessments, but I’ve never read any of her work.

If you come across any techniques that are worthwhile, I’d be interested in hearing about them.

***

Michelle:
Now, that’s an original idea. I like it. I can see how the peppermint would give your mind something else to focus on. Next time I’m at the store I know what I’m getting.

dave said...

I'd find it interesting that if you were truly having a stroke, you'd be capable of typing a post.

Pot? Meet Kettle...

Leila V. said...

Hardy har, Dave.