Going at it alone with terrible anxiety

[DW7186]

I was diagnosed in oct 23 with flail arm syndrome. My left is totally paralysed,I was coping ok ish alone till infection and emergency surgery affected my right arm.

Now I'm really struggling to function, I have a bath with shower in but every time I step into It I have a panic attack raising my 'good arm' so can only wash one side.

I genuinely don't know what to do,Im struggling with it,my GP gave me propanalol.

Does anyone have advice?

Best Wishes Denise

 

[KimT]

If you're in UK, the folks on that forum should be able to give you the exact steps to get help.

I started out alone, too. I ended up with a housemate and we share expenses. He was recently diagnosed with a very bad illness that could be terminal. We help each other as best we can. Do you have friends or relatives who can help?

 

[DW7186]

Thankyou Kim, yes I'm in the UK forum and I searched panic attacks. I was offered diazepam which came up alot when I searched, but I don't like feeling a 'bit out of it' if that makes sense?

I think my problem is balance with the left arm a hanging weight with subluxation and I have scoliosis too.I just feel wobbly and off balance all the time especially stepping up and down.

I think I'll just have to dig into savings and get walk in shower.

All the best,Denise

 

[Lori7]

Hi, Diazepam might help with your panic attacks.I was on a benzo for 35 yrs. and they are very good for anxiety. The problem is the medical community here in Toronto doesn’t like to prescribe them because they are addictive. The fact they are addictive shouldn’t bother them in the case of terminally ill patients, but they still won’t prescribe them. I was taken off Clonazepam a couple of years ago except for a tiny dose, and they wouldn’t increase the doseage again even though I’m terminally ill. They have demonized benzos for no good reason, as most psychiatric medications are somewhat addictive, not just benzos they are very good for anxiety. A sublingual Ativan will work very quickly and will stop a panic attack. I have not been well since I stopped the benzos. So what I’m telling you is that you can try Diazepam, but if the UK becomes “ anti -benzos” like Canada they might take you off it, and the withdrawal is miserable and lengthy. So just beware!

 

[Megatron]

I only need it a few times per year if I'm panicking while lying down for bed, but Lorazapam has worked well for me. I'm solely on Medicare in the U.S. and no one has ever made an issue of this medication.

 

[DW7186]

Thankyou very much for the advice Lori7 and Megatron,much appreciated!
All the best Denise