I get really scared im going to die.

[joshrandall]

I just moved a chest of draw with empty draws up stairs, as my uncle asked me, and my mother offfered to do, thing is my family laugh they think its a joke - so i said ill try anyway after i move them i feel sick dizzy, heart is skipping long beats and going very fast, rush to head, and feel lack of blood in my arms, and I just get terrified that my hearts going to give out or im going to die, I panic.

 

 

[Macca]

Hi Josh

Over the years I've had my fair share of 'scary' POTS symptoms, eg tachycardia, chest pain, nausea, syncope etc. It can be really hard to deal with, but I've had a thorough cardiac work up and I know my heart is ok. My POTS doc has reassured me that while the symptoms are scarey they are all part of POTS and not indicative of heart problems. 

If you haven't already I'd suggest talking to your doctor about the symptoms to make sure everything is ok (i.e just the POTS). I also found talking to a psychologist who specialises in helping people with chronic illness really helpful, particularly dealing with anxiety about my symptoms.

In regard to carrying the drawers up the stairs, I have found it's really important to stay within my physical limits and slowly but surely try and increase how much activity I do. I'd suggest avoiding physical activity that makes you feel ill. An Exercise Physiologist can can be really good at helping build an activity plan and your doctor maybe able to refer you to someone. As part of this, taking time to educate your family about the seriousness of your illness and  your limitations might help - perhaps your doctor can assist with this too?

Take care.

 

 

[corina]

Josh, I'm so sorry you are feeling so bad. I have trouble carrying stuff let alone up stairs! Like Macca mentions POTS symptoms can be very scary. Do know though that POTS in itself is not life threathening. My cardio told me that eventhough my heart may be running wild, it is healthy and there are no riscs of me getting a heart attaque or dying from it. I found it reassuring and told myself to stop worrying about it. That was easier said than done but it did help me to just take his word for it and move on. Talking to a psychologist can help you deal with the scary symptoms but may also help you in relation to your family's attitude to you being sick. Have you ever shown them the "Changes"video? That may be helpful as well! Sending good thoughts your way Josh!

[Abramelin777]

Hi Josh. I know exactly how you are feeling. You could check out the cardiology videos on YouTube - YorkCardiology by Dr Sanjay Gupta.

He explains all about different conditions & how the heart functions. I've found it very reassuring to know why my heart skips beats & speeds up at the slightest exertion. 

Have a look & see if it eases your anxiety. 

 

[yogini]

Josh, I think many of us have felt in your shoes.  POTS is super scary, especially when it is new.  Check with your doctor but there usually isn't much risk of death for most of us.  I would also stay away from activities that trigger symptoms, including moving heavy furniture and other over-exertions.

 

[dkd]

You should definitely get your heart checked out to be sure that it is ok.

 

When I get these feelings, I try to control my breathing and I just repeat in my head "you are ok, you are not going to die, stay calm" and I just breathe through it.

It took me a few times to realize that I'm not going to die though and I did panic. It's hard to not panic when you feel like that. It takes some practice.

Best wishes!!