living with a bipolar husband
Friday, October 2nd, 2009
Jane's story
Jane was having a pleasant day at Disneyland with his family. The day had been long and it was time to go home. The children asked for a ride and Jane did not have the heart to say no. The family went online to "The Last Voyage of the day. The line was long and slow. Suddenly, Jane's heart started racing and was afraid. It felt like I was going crazy. She broke a sweat and began to have terrible stomach cramps. She thought it must be physically ill and the family left and went home. Jane felt ashamed and thought he had ruined day of their children. Strangely, the symptoms disappeared as soon as he got into the car. She was sure of the reason for the symptoms was just over – sun.
After his initial attack, Jane felt very well and continued with their daily activities. She was able to assist the family and school functions without any trouble. Then, months later, had another seizure. This time it was at a family wedding. Her husband was ill, but was annoyed at having to leave a family gathering. Jane felt ashamed of what was happening. Once again, the symptoms decreased as soon as he left the wedding. Again, she went to the doctor.
Symptoms of Panic Attacks
- Racing heart or chest pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Choking
- The need to vomit
- Unexplained diarrhea
- Sweating
- Trembling or
- Feelings mad with death
While these may be symptoms of a panic disorder, which can also be a symptom of a physical disorder. Please do not self-diagnosis. Consult your doctor for a definitive diagnosis.
This trend continued for many years. Jane never mentioned during routine physical exams. She felt very embarrassed by losing control in seemingly benign situations. Jane felt that once finished, never could happen again. But over the years Jane began gradually to avoid certain functions. Jane's World has become smaller and smaller. His life and family life were planned around avoiding these panic attacks. Eventually, it became difficult for her to leave the house and Jane became a prisoner in her own home. Jane was showing many symptoms of agoraphobia.
The symptoms of agoraphobia
- Fear of crowds
- Fear of public transport
- Become restricted to the home or safe area in the neighborhood of
- Isolation social
- You can not leave home alone
- Panic attacks
Although agoraphobia can happen without a panic disorder, one of the main symptoms of Agoraphobia is the avoidance of situations where a panic attack may occur. For example, in the case of Jane, widespread panic larger meetings. Later extended until the fear was so great that Jane's circle of security became smaller and smaller. Your ability to interact his family was greatly affected. Her sons and her husband tried to understand, but deep down, is anger and resentment. Jane was on shaky ground.
Finally, Jane received assistance. At her husband and children, Jane explained her symptoms to her doctor and was relieved to know that she was not the only one going through this condition. Jane was able to recover with the help of your physician and mental health counselor. The road to recovery was slow and not always easy, but now leads a life that is rich and satisfying.
Panic disorders and agoraphobia can be treated. If you have or live with someone with panic disorder and / or agoraphobia, please seek help. You do not have to suffer with this very debilitating disease.
Sunny Alexander, M.A., Ph.D. is Licensed in California as a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT 24218). She offers online counseling and invites you to explore her website at http://www.askdrsunny.com
Jack and Ethel