Nocturnal Panic Attacks- can ER help me?

[sdalbright22]

So about 3 weeks ago I began having what I would guess are nocturnal panic attacks. I wake up with a jolt, feel like my skin is on fire, burning sensations in my neck and head and sometimes some funky things with my vision for a few seconds when I wake up. I have not experienced panic attacks before and these are frankly terrifying. The first one started about 3 days in to my first attempt at taking a medication for my anxiety. My doctor had me stop the medication thinking that would stop these episodes and I have an appointment on Friday to discuss other possibilities for medication or other treatment options.

Well last night, I woke up again with this horrid sensation, but unlike the other times, the feelings haven't passed. I feel completely on edge, those horrible feelings of fear coursing through me, rapid heart beat, etc. It's been about 12 hours now. I'm trying to do deep breathing, I went to church this morning to try and be distracted but it took everything I had not to run out of the building in terror.

I guess I'm wondering-If I went to the ER (no urgent care centers in my town) could they help me stop the panic attack that won't seem to quit? I'm exhausted but can't sleep, and my DH is about to head out of town for 3 days leaving me with my 2 little people, and this isn't going to work.

Just need some advice. Thank you! 

[vardnas]

The only thing the ER would do would be to give you a dose of anti-anxiety meds and call it a day. Getting past feelings of anxiety isn't a one-shot deal; it takes time.

What did your doctor prescribe? And why don't they think you should take it now?

I've had that kind of sustained high anxiety, even while taking anti-anxiety meds and I know, it's awful. It's difficult, but that feeling is probably not going to go completely away until you work on getting your overall stress level down. Are you doing anything, other than the meds, to treat your anxiety? It's tough, but as you work through it, you'll start to feel better.

[sixpack]

as vardnas said,
 
the er will give you anxiety meds and send you on your way.   They *may* give you a list of therapists to follow up with.  ERs are 'treat them and street them' OR if necessary admit to the hospital.  The er is NOT for fixing long term or chronic issues/illnesses.

 dealing with anxiety is not EVER going to be solved with a wishing or hoping and swallowing a pill.  Unfortunately it requires a LOT of heavy lifting on our parts to get to feeling better.  this is a step by step process in which, some days are a step or two back. 

What are you doing day to day to work on your thinkng disorder? 

[sdalbright22]

Thank you both. I recognize that the ER is not a true fix for my anxiety, but after what seemed like a 12 hour panic attack I was desperate for something to help me in this moment. Finally that feeling has passed and I am feeling calmer. Just left with a nasty headache which isn't super surprising being how tense I was!

Right now while waiting to reconnect with my dr about potential medication - I have been exercising most days,
Cutting way back on caffeine, reading a couple of books recommended by folks on this board, journaling and researching nutrition for reducing anxiety.

I know I have a long ways to go and appreciate you all so much who take time to respond to threads. Now I know that an ER visit would have been a major waste of my money for probably very short lived relief.