Panic Attack or Seizure? - Panic Disorders Message Board

Carlos25 · 10-18-2004, 10:18 PM

Does anyone here know anything about misdiagnosing panic attacks as seizures? I have a friend with a brain tumor. A common symptom of her type of tumor is seizures, but based on her description of what she experiences it sounds more like a panic attack.

She has trouble breathing, she thinks the world is gonna end, she can't talk, her fingers feel numb, and her arm twitches. The attack usually lasts about 15-30 seconds. What does this sound like to you?

Thanks,
Carlos

jeffster · 10-18-2004, 11:19 PM

A seizure. The fact that she can't talk and part of her body twitches is a good indicator. There is probably anxiety that goes along with having a seizure which I'm sure she's experiencing as well.

Jeff

crabbyroad · 10-19-2004, 07:14 AM

I would agree with Jeff, on her diagnosis of a brain tumor, which I am so sorry for your friend. Also panic attacks last longer than 15-30 seconds.

hry33 · 10-19-2004, 02:24 PM

panic attacks and siezures can be difficult to tell apart

hanelo4 · 10-25-2004, 04:22 AM

Hi Carlos

I have a friend who has seizures and she tells me that when she is about to have one, she zones out. She cannot hear anything or remember anything when she comes back from the seizure. It's different from a panic attack because us panic attack sufferers can remember everything. Most things we don't want to remember because the feeling is terrible. I feel for your friend and I am sorry she has to go through this. I hope the doctors resolve all of this soon.

Chantel