Am I suffering form panic attacks?

Dr Bert Pepper
Psychiatrist,
Blauvelt, New York

Q: I am working as a personal secretary in Mumbai in a private firm since the last 20 years. My age is 45. Since the last 3/4 years I have a problem i.e. whenever I travel by local train and if there is heavy rush, I get scared of the rush. I get a feeling that I wont be able to get out of this train. Sometimes I used to get down from the train. Also when there is a big rush in a room or a similar situation such as closed lift. Last month I could not open the toilet lock and I got scared that I may die there itself. Kindly give me your valuable advice.

A:I cannot diagnose you definitely by email, but here is some general information about the kinds of experiences you have had:

Your experience is COMMON, not rare or unusual.

When a person feels tense, anxious, or afraid in crowded or confining situations, he is often having a panic attack. This is not dangerous, but may be confused with a heart attack or some other severe medical condition.

Panic attacks should be treated so that the person does not become afraid to go to work or to other places.

The condition can be treated with medication, or by a type of counseling called COGNITIVE-BEHAVIOURAL THERAPY, by a psychologist. Combined treatment may also be used. Good luck!