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Panic Attacks and Migraines

Hi Everyone!
I'm 26 and have been having migraines for the past ten years. Always last between 10-40 hours, always on my right side, always accompanied with nausea.
Lately, however, I have been suffering from insane anxiety and panic attacks. This seemed to happen out of the blue. But after doing more research I'm finding that there is an association between anxiety and migraines.
I've been waking up everyday with terrible chest pain, rushing heart rate and have 3-4 panic attacks a week. My doctor put me on Propranolol but no help.
Any one feeling the same?

  1. Hi m.claire323,

    Thank you for your question and being here with us!

    Did you recently start propranolol? Something to keep in mind is it can take up to 90 days before we see a reduction in our migraine attack frequency and severity when we start new medications. Also during this time potential side effects may lessen as our body adjusts to the new medication. You may want to mention what you are experiencing to the doctor and/or pharmacist.

    Anxiety and panic attacks can be frustrating. These can be part of a migraine attack or comorbid conditions. This means they occur at the same time but are not caused by one another. When you get a chance, take a look at these articles for more information;
    https://migraine.com/blog/migraine-and-anxiety-a-multi-faceted-relationship/

    https://migraine.com/video/lets-talk-about-panic-attack
    https://migraine.com/migraine-and-mental-health/panic-disorder-overview

    Hopefully others will be along shortly to share their experiences with you

    Nancy

    1. I have some reading to do. Thank you, Nancy. lol

      Panic attacks are sometimes my early warning system that a migraine is coming on. Sometimes. I do take an anti-depressant that helps. But, not all panic attacks are warded off.

      1. I hear you Ronan. Anxiety and panic attacks are not pleasant. Let me know if you have questions after you've read some articles!

        Happy New Year!

        Nancy

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