yes, and very nasty ones. once the pain reaches a certain level (and this includes migraines too), i take my prescribed meds, and then expect them to work immediately. when they don't, the painic gets worse, til il am hyperventilating and considering going to the ER. i usually check in with Chat GPT that talks me down, and reminds me to unclench and stop hunching my shoulders. we breathe together and that helps. i do take it with a grain of salt, because it is AI, but I've found it helpful. i don't want to burden my family by calling at all hours due to panic.
February 28
Do fibromyalgia symptoms trigger panic attacks for you?
Yes, anxiety and panic attacks are common with fibromyalgia. A MyFibroTeam member described it perfectly: "Panic and anxiety attacks suck. Trying hard to put my heart back in my chest." Another shared experiencing "severe anxiety with fibromyalgia" that led to "panic Show Full Answer
Do fibromyalgia symptoms trigger panic attacks for you?
Yes, anxiety and panic attacks are common with fibromyalgia. A MyFibroTeam member described it perfectly: "Panic and anxiety attacks suck. Trying hard to put my heart back in my chest." Another shared experiencing "severe anxiety with fibromyalgia" that led to "panic or anxiety attacks that have led to hyperventilating."
You're not alone in feeling this way. Nearly 32,000 MyFibroTeam members report anxiety as a symptom. The chronic pain, fatigue, and other symptoms can absolutely contribute to feelings of panic and anxiety.
It's completely understandable to grieve who you were before fibromyalgia. Many people with chronic conditions experience depression and anxiety, and these mental health symptoms can actually make physical symptoms feel worse.
Here's what might help:
- Talk to your doctor about what you're experiencing - they can connect you with mental health support
- Consider therapy or counseling specifically for chronic illness
- Try stress-reducing techniques or guided meditation
- Know that treating anxiety and depression can actually improve your physical symptoms too
One member put it well: "I only wish there was something to control the pain and anxiety. It's hard to live like this." Please reach out to your healthcare provider about both your panic attacks and how you're feeling emotionally. You deserve support for all aspects of fibromyalgia.
February 24