It has been a while since I posted here for many reasons. I have been so fatigued and see a Dr more than I see family members. Also, it's been difficult with the passing of one of the members last year who I formed an immediate friendship with.
Last year in May I had some kidney issues that just wouldn't go away. Repeated Uti's that antibiotics didn't want to cure. In November 2016 I woke up to swollen fingers and toes. After numerous tests - heart related tests including a heart catherization, ultrasounds, Ct urogram, rheumatology testing, some surgeries ob-gyn related, etc..I am finally getting some answers. I have a mass on my right kidney-highly malignant. I have also been diagnosed with Raynaud's disease and more. I am scheduled for a partial nephrectomy in March. I also have to have more melanomas removed at the end of this month.
The cardiologist suggested I get a fitness tracker and increase my activity daily (albeit I have no energy whatsoever feeling exhausted daily). But, taking his advice in January- I did. It monitors my steps, sleep, heart rate- and more. It has a daily graph of all.
What I thought was just general fatigue while out shopping last week (and being assured by the cardiologist my heart is fine) I had my first panic attack in over a year. Looking at it on the graph on my cell phone was interesting and sad at the same time. Looking at the spike in heart rate 163 bpm could have been concerning to some. To me, it was a set back. I've had numerous panic attacks since I got the news on my kidney. Maybe up to five attacks this week already. I'm a hot mess of anxiety with the upcoming surgeries. Hence, why I am here writing this. Maybe writing it will help. My support system is few and far in between.
After the second panic attack last week, the first thing that came to my mind was this group. Asking myself what had I learned and how it could help me at that moment. I talked myself down from the attack, did my breathing exercises, and found something else to focus on. The panic attack today- It took an emotional break down for me to come here to the forum. I know realistically I can't avoid what will help me. (Yes, I have an avoidance issue) I've almost not posted this twice in my mind. That isn't going to help me though. Posting this and doing the course again will.
Any new strategies learned by anyone recently to help with panic/anxiety attacks?
