I have had panic attacks for a very long time so I know what it is when I get one so I just take deep breaths and try my best to calm myself down and just keep repeating to yourself this is only a panic attack, you will get over it.
I sing. It distracts my mind and it makes my lungs work the way they are supposed to. It usually just takes one song.
Why do you think you've got colon cancer? What are your symptoms?
You've stated that you suffer from hypochondria.........have you been reading too many symptom sites?
I don't know how old you are, but if you are an adult, ask your PCP for a referral to a gastroenterologist for a colonoscopy. That will rule out colon answer while you're still on the table.
The gastroenterologist will be able to diagnose IBS if that is, indeed, the problem.
Sometimes we have to take the bull by the horns and this sounds like one of times.
BUT.............. most likely colon cancer and possibly even IBS will be ruled out, and then where do you go next? With hypochondria, you'll simply find another disease brewing elsewhere. So you need to address the problem you KNOW you have, which is the hypochondria. And to do that, you need to get into some therapy.
Once you have the hypochondria under control, your anxiety/panic will surely follow suit. Working with a good therapist will make sure both these issues are dealt with and you can move on to a much more peaceful life.
Please discuss this with your doctor.
I wish you the best
RubyWitch
Thanks for answering my question. I know what's triggering these attacks. I think I've got bowel cancer. But the doctor thinks it's IBS I'm a hypercondriact with server anxiety disorder. And these panic attacks and constant anxiety symptoms are really taking over my life. Thanks again. I will try walking xx
I've read that simply taking deep breaths is counterproductive and can lead to hyperventilation, making it worse. I don't know how true it is, just something I came across. The breathing method I use (I discovered in some forum or website) is a "5,3,7" method. Breath in for 5 seconds, hold it for 3, and exhale slowly for 7 seconds. I use it.
I also walk briskly on a treadmill for 20 minutes. It seems to calm me down anywhere from 1-3 hours.