Will deep breathing help panic attacks

The number one piece of advice I’ve been given is to do deep breathing techniques when a panic attack begins. In theory, it works and it works very well. In reality, I have a hard time doing deep breathing exercises when my stomach is in knots.

One reason is that I only get panic attacks when I have indigestion, bloating, cramping or other common stomach ailments. Deep breathing requires concentrating on the air flowing down the lungs and the stomach expanding. This type of technique not only keeps me focused on the same part of the body that’s giving me the attack, it makes the symptoms feel worse.

Emetophobia sucks!

My Progress with Emetophobia

During the past several years my life has been like a roller coaster with emetophobia. Unlike the frightening Cyclone in Coney Island, my ride never ends it just slows down in between turns. I have scaled many hills, endured twists and turns, and then soared down them.

During the past few months, I’m glad to say the roller coaster has slowed down. Even the panic attacks invade my life less often. This however, could all change in a snap.

I doubt my fear of vomiting will ever go away. All of my childhood and my adult life I’ve had it. It just didn’t control my life until later on. Right now it’s manageable. I’m still following good hygiene and walk around with my emet kit. I still don’t enjoy going out to dinner or events where there is food and drink. But, I’m able to do these things without terrible distress.

That’s not to say I no longer need this blog. There will be times when my roller coaster will pick accelerate unexpectedly, even if it’s only a quick ride.