A cancer diagnosis can be really hard to hear, long before treatment even starts. It can make you feel uncertain even if you have medical clarity of your condition. This fear and uncertainty can sometimes cause you a panic attack. This usually happens when your mind and body react to the emotional stress. It is not just about the diagnosis but also the shock or fear that your body now has to go through an intense treatment.
Common symptoms you shouldn’t ignore
Panic attacks can be intense and may also present as physical sensations, which can scare you at first.
A sudden racing heartbeat.
Sudden feeling of breathlessness.
Trembling movements or feeling restless.
Feeling dizzy or lightheaded.
What can trigger panic after diagnosis?
After your cancer diagnosis, there can be moments that can also trigger your anxiety. Moments like waiting for your test results or discussing your further treatment plan can make you feel anxious and trigger panic. These are the times that can make you feel uncertain about your treatment and put an emotional weight on your mind and body. That's why it’s very common to experience a panic attack in such moments.
Building strength over time
Handling panic attacks can be really difficult if you are facing them for the first time. But there are certain ways in which you can make it bearable. Simple choices like slow breathing or focusing on your surroundings can help you stay calm. You can also seek help from a therapist who can actually help you regulate your emotions through various guided practices. You don’t practice intense therapy, but just simple choices and techniques can really bring major change in how you can handle panic attacks.
When should you seek a doctor?
Panic attacks are quite common during treatment. But if they start happening frequently, then you shouldn’t waste any more time. If your panic attacks start affecting your routine, leaving you exhausted and feeling weak, then you must seek help from your doctor. Early help from a doctor can help you control the panic attacks and bring you to a normal state without delaying things.
Finding your way through fear
Panic attacks can be difficult when they break the momentum of your treatment. But you should know that panic attacks are just your body’s response to the treatment, and you can control them. With a little awareness and seeking timely help, you can overcome your fear and face your treatment with confidence.