Replies to @jimhd – that sounds super scary having a panic attack when going into the MRI machine….

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Depression & Anxiety | Last Active: Mar 17, 2020 | Replies (302)

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@lisalucier

@jimhd - that sounds super scary having a panic attack when going into the MRI machine. Wow that you controlled it by yourself with some mental distraction. I know that @johnhans has talked about experiencing a panic attack before and may be able to relate to something like what you experienced going into the imaging session.

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Replies to "@jimhd - that sounds super scary having a panic attack when going into the MRI machine...."

Jim, Volunteer Mentor | @jimhd | Oct 24, 2019

@lisalucier Fortunately, I felt the panic start just as my head went into the machine. I wasn't sure how long I'd last. After only a second or two I closed my eyes and focused on chord options for a few songs we sing at church. I held a panic button but didn't have to use it.

I was in the hospital when I reacted to Lyrica, and they put an NG tube in. I've had them several times over the years, and it doesn't get any more fun. That evening I felt like my heart was racing like it did in the ER. I had a heart monitor, but it didn't ring any alarms. I finally figured out that I was having a panic attack because of the NG tube. As soon as they took it out, I began feeling better. Anyone who's had one knows that they don't stop instantly.

What I've found that helps me is to pray. Sometimes it's a long prayer.

Jim

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