Panic Attacks....

[Jwh]

Hi!

It's 6 more days until my 1 year MRI and I'm having such anxiety!  Ugh I can't seem to catch my breath, heartburn and an overall anxious feeling.  I'm short tempered with my children.  I can't seem to handle normal daily activities without stress. 
I feel like the 1 year MRI is so crucial.  I've been down this road to many times for one person.  Having a prior regrowth makes you less confident the second time around.  Right now I'm trying to stay positive but it's hard.....
I'm meeting with my doctor right after for the results.  Longest elevator ride ever 

~Jen

[cin605]

Hi jen.....You probly have your results by now...Hope all is clear.
I have this aniety also as my 2 year mri is due soon.
Last one showed alot of what they thought was scar tissue.

[Jwh]

Hi
My MRI is scheduled for next Monday, May 24th.
Jen

[CHD63]

Jen .....

Given your history, anxiety would certainly be high on my list prior to an MRI.

I, also, have an area of increased enhancement they are watching ...... sort of like sitting on a time bomb.  My rational side can deal with it just fine ..... it's the emotional side I find hard to control as each MRI date approaches.  Try to stay focused on something far more pleasant if you can.  Hopefully your rational side will tell you this is most unlikely to happen again, after both approaches for removal have been done.

Best thoughts and many prayers for peace of mind until you know for sure.

Clarice

[Brendalu]

Jen,

I agree with Clarice and offer up my good thoughts and prayers.  I always have to breathe into a paper bag for days before mine...I hyper ventilate...not fun.  I think I own stock in Tums, too, or should.  Your kids probably understand why you are short tempered with them and even though it smarts for a while, they will be okay when you know you are okay.  Take care of you.
Hugs,
Brenda

[Debbi]

Jen-

As Clarice said, you have every reason to be nervous.  You and I are both very lucky that we can head right from the MRI unit of NYU to the 8th floor and get our results immediately.  I just made that elevator ride a few weeks ago, too.  Hopefully you will get the same good news as I did, Jen.  BTW, have you considered taking anything for the anxiety?  I have to take valium or xanax for the MRI, but maybe something to consider for you in the remaining days just to help with the anxiety and panic.  Hang in there, my dear.  Sending you hugs.

Debbi

[Jwh]

Ohhh Debbie!  You know that elevator ride too!  I'm so happy you got great news!  Who read you the results Roland or Golfinos?  I hope I get good news too.  Did you have any scar tissue?

[moe]

The anxiety is totally understandable.
I like the idea of walking around with a paper bag if you don't want to take xanax!
Stay busy, be kind to yourself.
Positive thoughts,
Maureen

[Lizard]

I can totally relate, but try to hang in there and hopefully the 24th will have come and gone with no incident.
Have you ever tried meditating or breathing exercises, as the would really help under these circumstances.
Take care,
Liz

[Jwh]

Hi!

I do have Kolopin prescribed for me during these rough times and for the MRI.  I rarely take it only when really needed. I think that time might be soon 

The other night I woke up an hour after I went to bed with my heart racing like I just ran a marathon.  I guess my anxiety is affecting me in many different ways.

[wendysig]

Jen,

Considering what you've been through, I can't blame you for being so anxious.  I can't believe the fates would be cruel enough to give you anything but good news.  In the meantime, it might be time to start taking something for your panic attacks.  Monday is not far off, and I hope Dr. Roland or Golfinos has good news for you.

Hugs,
Wendy

[Jwh]

thank you Wendy!  I'll never say never again. as i get closer to the mri i'm trying to remain positive.  i'll enjoy the weekend b/c you can't get that time back.
jen

[Debbi]

Good morning Jen-

Oh, I'm so familiar with that "waking up after an hour" thing - that is pretty much how I slept right after I was diagnosed.  My husband and I kidded that we were sleeping in shifts, taking 1-2 hour turns each!

Dr. Golfinos read my results (he's covered by my insurance, so he orders the MRI every year) - had to wait about 45 minutes, but met up with another ANer in the MRI center, so she and I visited in Dr. G's waiting room which made the time fly (thank goodness!). I don'thave any signs of scar tissue, and the little bits that they left behind on my facial nerve seem to be dead or dormant, so that's good news!   I see Dr Roland for follow up on my face next month - that will be an easy visit  with NO stress!

Who are you seeing - Golfinos or Roland? 

Continuing to keep you in my thoughts.  I hope that you can do something fun this weekend to try to take your mind off things.  Weather is supposed to be pretty good in our area, so maybe you can get out.  And, hey, if you ever want to come out here to the "sticks" of northwestern NJ, just say the word - our house is always open to other ANers!     We've got cats, dogs, bears, deer and heaven only knows what else out here.   

Hang in there!

Deb

[wendysig]

Jen,

I'm glad to hear you sounding a little better.  You're right -- you can't get time back so do try to keep yourself busy and enjoy the weekend.  Let us know how everything goes on Monday.

Wendy