The Doc Replies
Our expert answers your medical questions
My parents died earlier this year. Since then I often feel suddenly quite ill – my heart beats irregularly and I sweat profusely. My wife thinks I’m having panic attacks. Is this possible?
A panic attack is an attack of anxiety that is usually sudden. Occasional panic attacks are common, but repeated attacks are known as Panic Disorder. Physical symptoms can include palpitations, chest pain, shortness of breath, pins and needles, and sweating.
They occur partly because the body is experiencing a release of adrenaline. That speeds up your heart and makes you breathe heavier and too fast, which means you hyperventilate and blow off too much carbon dioxide, upsetting acid balance in the blood and making you feel even worse.
These physical symptoms are caused by stress, not an underlying problem with the heart or lungs. Your GP can check your heart and lungs, which should give some reassurance. You can help yourself by taking long breaths in and slow breaths out. But it is also important to know why you are getting the stress. Go to see your GP.
Beta blockers are sometimes prescribed to slow heart rate. Other medications can be prescribed and a GP can make a referral for psychological help, like cognitive behaviour therapy. It is important not to worry and to know help is available. I am having bouts of dizziness, fainting and headaches.
There can be any number of reasons for these symptoms. It could be anything from a virus infection to dehydration. I would advise you to see your GP.
Our doctor insists the mumps, measles and rubella vaccine (MMR) is safe. But I worry about the risk of autism.
The study by Andrew Wakefield in 1998 linking the MMR vaccine to autism and inflammatory bowel disease was entirely discredited, and he was struck off the medical register by the General Medical Council.
Measles is a dangerous condition and can lead to encephalitis, pneumonia and lung problems.
Speak to a GP or health visitor to ensure you are fully informed.
The Doc Replies
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