I sometimes have chest discomforts with pain and sweating which may start suddenly. This often leads to trembling and shaking and the fear of dying.  My doctor says it is a form of mental illness called Panic Attack and referred me to a psychiatrist. I refused to go and see the Psychiatrist because there is no history of psychiatric illness in my family and I don’t want to be labelled as one, since the disease has no treatment. Kindly assist me because I am getting worried as my complaints are still persisting.

Wuraola (by SMS)

Before a diagnosis of Panic Attack can be made, it is important that some other possible ailments that are similar to it be ruled out. These ailments include, alcoholic withdrawal, overactive thyroid activity, epilepsy, among others. If these illnesses have been ruled out and you still have the complaints, then Panic Attack becomes a very strong possibility. Contrary to some opinions, with the advent of modern and newer drugs, many cases of Mental Illness including Panic Attacks are curable if treated adequately. I will therefore advise that if it is actually panic attack that you have, you should allow a psychiatrist to attend to you as soon as possible.