Anxiety attacks

By marlittle

1 min read

About a month ago I was getting ready to shower and was having my usual anxiety. It was worse this time almost to the nervous breakdown point.

Everything is going to be okay

I just stopped, sat down on the edge of the tub and calmed myself down and talking to myself saying "it's ok". Everything is going to be OKAY! Maybe for today you can have a sponge bath instead and it's okay if you do that! I immediately felt a calmness come over me. Now when I feel anxiety coming on, I just use those words. Things are different in your life now BUT it's going to be okay.

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Leon Lebowitz, RRT Member
Hi CM6724579 - Wow - this is a very enlightening and uplifting not-so-little story!! Congratulations on being able to calm yourself down! It's understandable just how anxiety-provoking the shower had become for you. This is especially so since you (candidly) shared, this was 'almost' to the point of nervous-breakdown-anxious! That truly says it all!! You must be so happy with yourself and gratified, too! This is a huge accomplishment! Everything is going to be okay!!! Wishing you well, Leon (site moderator <a href='http://COPD.net' target='_blank'>COPD.net</a>)
mhmaur Member
Have an amazing doctor who understands the anxiety factor. Prescribed .025 msg of Xanax. Have only used twice, areal help.
1. riraxx Member
 <inline-mention username="mhmaur" user-id="6768009"/> iv had them all I stopped taking all as they are addictive I now manage without there just another problem I felt
2. riraxx Member
 <inline-mention username="Julie Barnson" user-id="6657899"/> me too
CommunityMember615ebe Member
I often wonder what came first the breathing attack or the panic attack! Chicken or the egg! Either way I can totally relate! Have now been off all anxiety meds for six months having ended up with two psych stays for anxiety and depression! I ended up booking myself in to a residential rehabilitation and addiction centre! COPD and panic need to be taken seriously and not to accept the easy scripts of benzos! Still stage 4 COPD but clean of all mind altering <a href='http://substances.Your' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>substances.Your</a> mind can cope , not easily, but telling yourself that you can do this CAN get you through it !!!
1. CommunityMember1917 Member
 That sounds just like me! I think I panic first! 
2. MASUTTON04 Member
 I try to talk myself thru them.
CommunityMember96010e Member
Hi america.i just wanted to share inhalers cause anxiety and sometimes irate behaviour I think it is adrenaline.i stopped using my inhalers my painful bladder settled down and I became at piece but then I began to suffacate you cannot win good luck Phil uk
1. riraxx Member
 <inline-mention username="CommunityMember96010e" user-id="6642413"/> don't stop inhalers body's used to them
2. riraxx Member
 <inline-mention username="CommunityMember292" user-id="4668510"/> all your bits ha ha
CommunityMember399d61 Member
I wonder why I get so much anxiety when it comes to taking a shower or bath 
1. riraxx Member
 <inline-mention username="CommunityMember399d61" user-id="6912130"/> it's such a difficult task now I only shower 2 wk the other days strip wash
2. Teena Member
 Because it's hard on the body with all the bending etc. Washing the hair is really hard keeping the arms up for so long and then conditioning trying to blow dry and style...whew.
kloker Member
Wow, there is a lot here. But I have struggled at times with all of these issues, and have since found ways to deal with them, so let me share a couple and see what y'all think, or if they give you any ideas of your own that you can share. First, my doctor works for me. I pay the bill, and he/she is legally responsible for taking care of my needs, period. I do NOT tolerate uncooperative or unwilling doctors. I have fired one for this, as I consider it a fail on their part. My health needs are my decision, not the doctor's. If I stay with a doctor who is ignorant of my illness or unwilling to hear me, he is gone NOW! There are plenty of doctors out there who actually care. Anyway, so I have serious sleeping issues, with apnea and the nature of those issues cause me serious fear and anxiety, so I take Lorazepam nightly to sleep. It helps tremendously. When I crash, I take my pill, open my Kindle and start reading, and then when I am ready to sleep, in an hour or so, I put the book down, put on my NIV mask (the NIV machine is a type of advanced bi-pap), turn on the machine, and turn off the light. Done. Problem solved. It has taken a year to get it all working right, but now that it does, I am sleeping a lot better and my health is improving. Since my destroyed lungs retain a lot of C02, the NIV pushes it out while I sleep, which lets more 02 in. So, there's that. On showering: It also took me a while to develop a process that works for me, but practice and being open to suggestions I see here have enabled me to develop a working system. I got a good safe shower chair. I have to be careful, as I have serious dizziness issues and, though I tend to fall down a lot, I have not fallen in the shower once, so far. It does consume a LOT of energy, but I have learned to pace my effort, and relax. One thing I do is this - I put on some good music! I live alone, so I don't have to worry about disturbing anyone, so I fire up some good smooth jazz and it is very helpful, letting me relax and enjoy the shower instead of making it a difficult chore. It doesn't take less energy, but I stay calm and collected, so it goes smoothly. I make it an enjoyable ritual. I also make sure it is cool, not warm, and comfy temperature wise. I use body wash instead of soap now, as I cannot hold the soap anymore without dropping it. The big bottle of body wash and another of shampoo sit on an easy to reach shelf by my knees, and I have my back brush and Japanese exfoliating cloth handy, and it is all nice and easy and relaxing. I am careful to maintain a 3-point system of bracing myself when getting in and out so I don't slip. And I wear my 02 hose right in there with me. There is no danger of water interference as the 02 hose has positive pressure of 02 pushing outward, leaving no way for water to get in at all, and no danger of choking from breathing in water. Easy peazy! Living with COPD, especially when you live alone, definitely has its challenges, but we must adapt and overcome! Now I just have to learn how to walk, without using my walker (which I hate and refuse to use indoors, though I do use it when I go out, and without falling. With my severe dizziness (still unresolved!), I have been falling a lot, and have injured my right shoulder. PT is coming today to evaluate what to do about the dizzies and school me better in fall prevention, as well as to try and determine next steps to deal with my shoulder injury, which is getting worse. Bad enough that I now have an opioid pain med for it, which I refuse to take unless I absolutely have to. So, living with COPD and all its myriad complications requires learning all I can about the illness, advocating for myself as a patient, and being proactive about developing new skills to help my body do the best it can with limited function. It's definitely a different life, and certainly not how I thought retirement would go, but it's what I have, so I just try to make the best of it one day at a time and keep my chin up. Heck, my chin has enough scars on it already, I don't need to add any more, eh?
1. CopdGirl Member
 Hi Kloker, It’s nice to hear from you my friend.X😁
2. CopdGirl Member
 Hi Kloker, How are you doing been thinking a lot of you lately, hoping all can be as good as it can be. Thinking of you my friend, I always keep a lookout for any posts from you and any updates.X
melrscott Member
I can appreciate the anxiety that getting ready to shower produces. I feel a sense of dread as I go through the preparations. I generally try to make sure I am as rested as possible before I start. I try to shower slowly and breath deeply while I am showering. I towel off just enough to not be dripping around the bathroom. Then quickly go through the rest of the drill. Comb my hair, apply deodorant, then facial cream to keep my nose an cheeks soft because of the oxygen tubes that I use periodically. Then quickly rest on the side of the bed before attempting to get dressed. I usually put on my shirt and then comes my oxygen. I put on the shirt so that I don't have to stop the oxygen while I finish getting dressed. Whew, just listing all of the steps makes me tired. After I am finished when I check my Oxymeter it is in the mid to low 80's and sometimes into the 70's. So it can get to be a challenge but don't know of any good alternatives. How do you deal with it?
1. CommunityMember292 Member
 <inline-mention username="melrscott" user-id="4254829"/> Hi, Mary Lyn here. Showers used to be so easy, right? Something we took for granted. Not anymore, with these lungs. I do not have a window in my bathroom, that would help a lot for the circulation I do badly need. So I always have a fan in there, and now, have to leave the bathroom door open. I now use the terrycloth robe trick which I've read about on here. I use all my strength just to shower, shave, shampoo. Drying off takes more oxygen than I have left in my lungs. I put my hair in a towel, slip on robe for absorbance, and go sit or lay down in a cooler room till I get some oxygen back into my lungs. When ready,. I go back for deodorant, etc. My grown kids have no idea how hard this is. I'm 70, but apparently, my lungs are 90! 🤣😂 It's hard accepting these limitations. Believe or not in my younger years, I used to jog everyday! You're not alone in this! 
2. Jvc187 Member
 Hi Melrscott! I don't know how many litres of oxygen you are using normally, but doing something as energy sapping as showering really drains you if you don't increase it. I can sit around, watch TV, on one litre, (at present), but when mobilising / washing, showering I need maybe three litres. Sorry if I'm teaching my granny to suck eggs, as we say, just thought I'd mention it. Good luck, keep looking for ways through it. Jvc187
CommunityMember3e4a30 Member
I need to know if anyone has or is using the cushion mask instead of the plain mask on full face? I used mine and it was heaven for about 3 days then last night my CPAP starting making noises so I turned on the lamp and check the CPAP diagnoses and it said there was a major air loss acne check mask. So I tightened it almost twice as much as before which was uncomfortable for Mr and turned back on and it still did it. I tried a new hose and it still did it. I went back to my usual mask and it was happy. That is so depressing to me as I just finally bought these hoping not to wake up with the red marks on my face everywhere the full mask was.
1. riraxx Member
 <inline-mention username="CommunityMember3e4a30" user-id="6608356"/> I use nose one as full mask freaks me out I hate my mouth covered
2. CommunityMember7d3f64 Member
 The two adjustments mentioned here are CRITICAL! do it right and remove the agony. Using the correct size mask is also important. The wrong mask can really cause a lot of frustration. Been there, done that!
CommunityMember58322c Member
I know exactly what you mean. I was recently discharged from the hospital due to pneumonia. The nurses/aides there would wipe me down so at least I felt clean. Now that I am home, it has been difficult. I could not shower right away so I would do the sponge thing. Even that wore me out and I had to go sit down and put the oxygen on. I have taken some showers since and it is a big deal to prep ahead of time. I cannot even do that all at once. I get a few things out, then sit down, then get some more out and get the shower ready. Then I sit down for a while. Then I finally take the shower. I always do my feet/legs/thighs first because I found that if I don't I really run out of energy. Then I clean the rest of myself. It is getting a little easier than it was at first but I still dread it when I need one. I will have to get over that. I hope it will get a little better for you (and everyone here). It's not easy having COPD/emphysema.
1. Leon Lebowitz, RRT Member
 <inline-mention username="carltonking" user-id="2411943"/> Hi carlton, and thanks for weighing in with your own perspective when it comes to COPD, showering, and anxiety. Some folks with a COPD diagnosis, find that steamy showers are helpful for their lungs, breathing and mucus clearance. It sounds like that benefits you as well! Thanks also for sharing your photo with the community. It's great to be able to put a face with a name! May I ask, who is the lovely lady who is standing right next to you? The scenery and view behind the two of you is magnificent! Beautiful country!!! Leon (site moderator <a href='http://COPD.net' target='_blank'>COPD.net</a>)
2. Jvc187 Member
 Hi! When you say you put the oxygen on after you've worn yourself out I worry. My respiratory nurse gave me gypp a while ago for the same thing. You need your oxygen while you're washing etc. It's there to help you avoid getting worn out. Just pop it on, (check what level you need with your medic), and take things nice and slow!
CommunityMember8b4152 Member
I seem to wake up after I fall asleep with so much anxiety I have to get up. Too much on your mind and always thinking the worst 
1. Leon Lebowitz, RRT Member
 <inline-mention username="CopdGirl" user-id="7003127"/> Hey there, CopdGirl - well - that sense of humor of yours really works for me!! You do make me laugh!! Leon (site moderator <a href='http://COPD.net' target='_blank'>COPD.net</a>)
2. Melissa.Arnold Community Admin
 <inline-mention username="CopdGirl" user-id="7003127"/> Hey friend, just want to check all the boxes as we discuss your anxiety -- have you gotten a good report on your heart health recently? It has to be frustrating to have your heart racing a lot. If you can't seem to slow it down or it happens a lot while resting, it might be worth checking in with your GP or your COPD doctor. Having peace of mind in that area might make you feel a bit calmer overall, too! Sending hugs -- I really do relate to how miserable anxiety is. You can always chat with us. -Melissa, <a href='http://copd.net' target='_blank'>copd.net</a> team
gulliver07 Member
Knocker - Thank You for your input, as I go thru the same situations as you !!!! The dizzy spells are terrible. Get them often. My last bad one was : I was sitting in a chair tying my shoe ; when I got up I just fell , passing out, but as soon I hit the floor (after gashing my forehead (stitches needed) and fracturing the tip of my nose I was OK. It felt like I was only out for a few seconds. No doctors have helped me remedy this. Only put me on 2.5 mg of Midodrine to take as needed. Has e severe Emphysema and Neuropathy, along with terrible Arthritis in my hands. Oh yeah , high B/P. Can’t find any decent doctors in AL where I now live. The closest of the better ones are a 4 hour drive away. Which I cannot do. Would appreciate any advice or help you have received relating to this. Thank You. @ @ @
1. kloker Member
 <inline-mention username="gulliver07" user-id="2403960"/> I am in the process of trying to find out what is causing my dizziness now. I went to the ENT (Ear, Nose, & Throat) doctor this week and have to go back on June 6 for more testing. That is when they will do some two hours of complex testing of some sort to my inner ears and my brain's connection to balance. I will definitely report back with what I learn from this and whatever follows. I am dizzy 24/7, all the time. It varies in intensity. I am dizzy right now as I sit and type this at my computer, but sometimes I have to stop and brace myself to keep from falling out of my chair! Other times I can walk across the room or house and do just fine, though I still feel dizzy, as it is not as intense. But I have fallen so much my right shoulder is now damaged. It is rather disconcerting, especially when I am going out to the doctor, though my neighbor helps me all the way. I use my walker, but I have to be very careful and go slow and stop sometimes to get my bearings. It is not fun. Mostly I can go with the walker but even it is not always enough. Just a couple of years ago I was driving a big truck, and working lots of hours with no problem, but no more. I also drink a lot of water due to chronic dehydration, but it's never enough. Aargh! Anyway, take care, and I will report back when I have more information to share.
2. CommunityMember292 Member
 <inline-mention username="kloker" user-id="4235094"/> please do let us know about your ENT findings. I'm going through the same thing! Mary Lyn
gulliver07 Member
kloker - how do you use an NIV machine (which I have never heard of) and oxygen at the same time. I am on oxygen 24/7. Also sleep with it. How can you sleep using both ??? 
1. Leon Lebowitz, RRT Member
 Hey <inline-mention username="kloker" user-id="4235094"/> - you're right - what a week for you! I am sorry to hear all this is happening now but am hopeful with your coaxing them along it will all be resolved. I want to tell you that ALL OF US here on <a href='http://COPD.net' target='_blank'>COPD.net</a> care a great deal about you! We want you with us for a long, long time! Keep at it, kloker - just keep at it!! Leon L (author/moderator)
2. Melissa.Arnold Community Admin
 <inline-mention username="kloker" user-id="4235094"/> Oh no! That's frustrating and so stressful. Do you think this was a one-time oversight from the nurse? If you have any bad vibes about them, it may be worth it to contact the agency your palliative care is through, just so they are aware and you have additional points of contact in case you need them ...or to confirm your refills are on the way. As for your therapist, did they leave you instructions on what to do if you need support during the vacation? Many therapists will have someone else on call during a leave, especially when it's for an extended period like this. I know very well what it can feel like when that outlet is taken away. Are there other things you can do over the next few weeks to promote wellbeing, like journaling, leatherworking or playing music? I know it's not a substitute for therapy -- just things to occupy your mind to some degree. Hugs to you, friend. Hope your meds are all sorted and you're hanging in there. Always cheering for you! -Melissa, copd team
Kitt Member
Hello! I have advanced emphysema. My dr. still hasn’t effectively explained to me why I have very over inflated lungs yet my oxygen levels are always normal. I am chronically lightheaded for several years now with no explanation. What type of air is trapped in my lungs? Is it oxygen or C02 or what?? If my lungs can’t accept air how is my body still getting enough oxygen? And what can be causing this chronic Lightheadedness??? My shortness of breath is very bad as well. Any facts or explanations for all this would be gratefully appreciated and thank you!
1. Kitt Member
 <inline-mention username="CommunityMember74617f" user-id="8577174"/> I have other health issues which preclude me from having either procedure, plus my age. Thank you for caring!!! I wish you the best!!
2. Melissa.Arnold Community Admin
 Recovering from surgery can be really tough even without health issues -- and transplant is among the most stringent ... I'm sorry it didn't work out for you. I hope you have some measure of peace and are making the most of each day. We're here for you! -Melissa, <a href='http://copd.net' target='_blank'>copd.net</a> team
bj howell Member
I was going to post a question about anxiety and depression and this is the page that came up. A lot to take in and make mine. Sad that doctors don't seem to get the connection between searching for a good breath and anxiety. Thanks to <a href='http://COPD.net' target='_blank'>COPD.net</a> 
1. bj howell Member
 My dilemma has many layers. My pulmonologist prescribed a sleep aid. That helped in one area. Since I use supplemental oxygen 24/7 I am limited to the battery(I have5) life of my portable source and I use a walker which even makes it all more fun. I live alone now in a senior living complex. Great place for making friends. I was missing all the active adventures I had, so I made myself unhappy. After one year of counseling I now look forward-not backward. Still have a tad of anxiety but my primary physician listens to my needs and that is a help. Thanks, Melissa for commenting.
2. Allyson.Ellis Community Admin
 <inline-mention username="bj howell" user-id="2485516"/>, I hear what a difference the senior living complex has made for your ability to socialize and make friends! It is so nice to have a built in social network and the option to participate in activities. That can be a real boost to mental health. I hear how counseling has also helped you to accept where you are and to look forward and enjoy the life you have now. Navigating the process of walking with a walker and portable oxygen is definitely a challenge! Whatever kind of oxygen you have, they get heavy! It can also feel frustrating to be limited on how long you can be out by the battery life of the portable. I thought this article might resonate with you: <a href='https://copd.net/living/wearing-oxygen-publicly' target='_blank'>https://copd.net/living/wearing-oxygen-publicly</a> How are you feeling today? Thank you for sharing so openly with us. Know we are here to listen when you need a friendly ear. Wishing you a gentle day. ~Allyson (team member)
CommunityMember12317d Member
I'm considering a double lung transplant , but still don't know if I should have it. I have third stage emphazima. I'm 7o.
1. Leon Lebowitz, RRT Member
 Hi <inline-mention username="CommunityMember12317d" user-id="8594151"/>, and welcome! I see you are a new member here, having joined today, in the mid afternoon. We are glad to see you already engaging with the community through this, your first post. Actually, the decision as to whether you are a suitable candidate for lung transplantation is one that is made by you and your physician. Are you currently considered to be a candidate for this procedure? Please do let us hear back from you so this can be discussed further if that is what you would like. Wishing you well, Leon (site moderator <a href='http://COPD.net' target='_blank'>COPD.net</a>)
2. Allyson.Ellis Community Admin
 Hi <inline-mention username="CommunityMember12317d" user-id="8594151"/>! I wanted to welcome you as well! In addition to the excellent response from my colleague, Leon, I wanted to share that we have several articles about the lung transplant evaluation process that you might like to peruse as you and your doctor consider whether this is an appropriate treatment to consider for you: <a href='https://copd.net/living/lung-transplant-evaluation' target='_blank'>https://copd.net/living/lung-transplant-evaluation</a> <a href='https://copd.net/living/types-of-tests-lung-transplant-evaluation' target='_blank'>https://copd.net/living/types-of-tests-lung-transplant-evaluation</a> <a href='https://copd.net/living/the-lung-transplant-evaluation-team' target='_blank'>https://copd.net/living/the-lung-transplant-evaluation-team</a> As Leon indicated, it is important to work with your doctor to make the best decision for you! How are you feeling today? Please keep us posted on what you learn and how you choose to proceed. Know we are here to listen anytime you need a friendly ear. Wishing you a gentle day. ~Allyson (team member)
CommunityMembera1c465 Member
Showers used to be a daily thing, now I dread them. Breathing in the shower is so hard, that I got a stool to sit on. It still wears me out but at least I don't feel like I'm going to faint.
1. gulliver07 Member
 CommunityMembera1c465. -please do not use a Bath Stool . THEY ARE DANGEROUS !!! When I was first diagnosed my daughter got me one, and as I turned around in the shower to rinse my back , I tripped over it and fell. Ended up in the hospital with a fractured humerus. Now have a plate with 11 screws and cannot lift my arm. Please get a GOOD SHOWER CHAIR . Much safer !!!! I realize showers are tough, as now I get panic attacks & short of breath before taking one. Happens to a lot of people w/COPD. I also wear my oxygen in the shower. Throw my cannula over the top of the shower bar. Keeps me calm knowing I can breathe. Also get Good Terry Cloth robe to put on after you shower. It will absorb the water ad you don’t have to deal with towel wiping, which also tires you out and makes breathing tough. If you can get hand held shower attachment , that also makes showing much easier. they are not that expensive and 
2. gulliver07 Member
 You can buy them them at Lowe’s or Home Depot. Get one with a long hose so you can attach it to the side of your shower while you lather and don’t have to get up. Good Luck !!!!
Leon Lebowitz, RRT Member
Hi <inline-mention username="CommunityMembera1c465" user-id="8614804"/>, and welcome! I see you are a new member here having just joined today, about 1/2 hour ago. We are glad to see you already engaging with the community through this, your first post. You make a good point about the anxiety that can be associated with COPD and showering. Many in our community have expressed similar sentiments so, you are not alone. I thought you might gain some additional insight from any of these articles (published right here on <a href='http://COPD.net' target='_blank'>COPD.net</a>), which focus on this very topic: <a href='https://copd.net/search?s=showers' target='_blank'>https://copd.net/search?s=showers</a>. I do hope you find the information is helpful on a practical way. Have a great weekend! Leon (site moderator <a href='http://COPD.net' target='_blank'>COPD.net</a>)
bin there and dunit Member
One of the worries is that COPD can sometimes, lead to lung cancer . There is good news about that in that a method of creating a patient specific vaccine has been worked out by the Clatterbridge Cancer Centre. The treatment is non-invasive. A patient who had cancer of 25mm dimeter has had them reduced to <a href='http://4.5mm' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>4.5mm</a> diameter and he is still undergoing treatment. Similat work has worked with a number of other cancers so there is hope for patients.
1. Allyson.Ellis Community Admin
 <inline-mention username="bin there and dunit" user-id="4279910"/>, wow! That is fascinating! I had not yet heard about that new research. Patient-specific healthcare and treatment is the future of medicine. While you know this and maybe have seen this article, I wanted to share this reporting from the BBC with others who might like to learn more: <a href='https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-merseyside-66096301' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-merseyside-66096301</a> Stories like this that offer hope for new treatments are so valuable. Thank you so much for sharing with us! Wishing you a gentle day. ~Allyson (team member)
Jvc187 Member
I am recovering from a really bad infection My sputum is very hard to get up and out. I am using Saline nebulisers, and atravent nebulisers, as well as carbocisteine...still really tough.. any suggestions?
John Bottrell, RRT Moderator & Contributor
Good morning <inline-mention username="Jvc187" user-id="8580076"/> Welcome to our community. Sorry that you are having to deal with a bad infection. I see it has been a while since you posted your comment. I am wondering how you are doing today? That said, as a respiratory therapist, one thing I think helps are devices like Acapallas, as you can see by this linkk (<a href='https://copd.net/clinical/flutter-valves-acapellas' target='_blank'>https://copd.net/clinical/flutter-valves-acapellas</a>). Do you have access to something like this? It may also be a good idea to contact your physician who may want to adjust your treatment regimen to help you enhance your cough and fell better overall. What do you think? John. <a href='http://COPD.net' target='_blank'>COPD.net</a> community moderator. 
1. Leon Lebowitz, RRT Member
 Hi again, <inline-mention username="Jvc187" user-id="8580076"/> - thanks for acknowledging my comment to you. See what a little confidence can do - you were able to gain control (of the little bit of panic), and straighten our the oxygen connecting tubing!! Each small accomplishment can be a giant step, too! So many in our community have expressed similar concerns about tangled oxygen lines. I thought you might find it helpful to read up on it, here: <a href='https://copd.net/living/oxygen-hose' target='_blank'>https://copd.net/living/oxygen-hose</a>. It's a fairly common occurrence for folks using oxygen in the home environment - you'll manage it fine, I'm sure! Enjoy the rest of the weekend! Leon L (author / site moderator)
2. Melissa.Arnold Community Admin
 <inline-mention username="Jvc187" user-id="8580076"/> Hi there. It stinks that you've developed issues with your heart on top of dealing with copd. That's never easy. If it's interesting to you, you might want to take a look around on our sister site, <a href='http://www.heart-failure.net' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>www.heart-failure.net</a>. Of course, you are not facing heart failure, but things like irregular heartbeats and medication for cardiac issues are topics they are well accustomed to. They may help you adjust to this new diagnosis. Regardless, we are all here to support you and I'm really glad to hear you're back at home and getting on with things. Take good care of yourself and keep us posted, okay? All the best! -Melissa, COPD team
wweems8 Member
I've had extreme panic attacks and anxiety a few years ago. I didn't know know what was going on so I went to the ER. I didn't realize that it may be due to my copd. I still have tendency for anxiety, however, like you, I calm myself or take half Hydroxyzine...prescribed. 
1. Leon Lebowitz, RRT Member
 Hi <inline-mention username="wweems8" user-id="8770083"/>, and thanks for joining in the conversation here. I hear you and, you are not alone! Many of our community members have expressed similar sentiments when it comes to managing COPD and dealing with the anxiety that can be associated with the disease. Besides doing what you've shared to help control it for yourself, I thought you might gain some additional insight from this article, published right here on <a href='http://COPD.net:' target='_blank'>COPD.net:</a> <a href='https://copd.net/living/fear-anxiety' target='_blank'>https://copd.net/living/fear-anxiety</a>. I do hope you find the information is helpful in a practical way. All the best, Leon L (author/moderator)
wally459 Member
One of my biggest anxiety triggers is having to shave and taking a shower. They both wear me out and make my SOB worse. I can only do one or the other the same day. Instead of dwelling on it, I do it right away so my anxiety doesn't build up.
CommunityMember415633 Member
Every one needs a ox m
CommunityMember415633 Member
ox lev
CommunityMember202139 Member
I too have COPD. I Need the O2 backpack being trying for awhile to get one. Thank you for the opportunity.

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