Bob,
Welcome to the Panic Center. I have suffered from Panic Disorder for about 3 years now and I also have agoraphobia. I started this program several weeks ago and I find that it is really helping me. I also see a psychologist as well but the site is good for talking about your issues with people who totally understand what you are going through. It is also nice to read about your disorder and understand what you are going through. I wanted to ask you, why do you think you are bipolar? Have you been diagnosed and if so, are you on any meds? As far as your fears of breathing difficulty and g.i. distress, I can empathize with you there. I hate feeling nauseated and short of breath. I find that breathing exercises really work. You need to do them constantly to get the hang of it but once you do, you will notice that the smothering feeling and the shortness of breath go away. I breath in thru my nose to a count of 5 or 6, hold for a second, breath out thru your mouth to a count of seven or eight. This slows the heart rate and also reduces blood pressure. Maybe it will work for you. And you are soooo right, this is no way to live. But you are making positive steps to take back control of your life. Good luck with everything, stay strong, and keep me posted ;)
