Is this an anxiety attack?

[wildchildajx18]

I had to go to the dentist to get 2 cavities. And when i walked in i was so nervous. Not because of the dentist but because of the gas crap he had to give me well not "had". But when i put the mask on it freaked me out and my heart was racing and i was feeling my heartbeat. I was about to throw the thing off. Anyway i got sweaty well i felt sweaty and i kept having impending doom. When i woke up i was drenched in sweat .?? anxiety attack?

[xBettyBoopx]

Hi Wildchild

Certainly sounds like anxiety to me. Have you felt that way before at the dentist? A lot of people have phobia of the dentist but have no other anxiety.

From your post I figure you were put 'out', I don't think we have that in this country (although I'm not sure as I havent been to the dentist in years!!!!!!)

I hope for you that this was an isolated incident because you have come straight here and hopefully your mind will be put at rest that it was nothing sinister (spelling!).

Take care

Elspeth

[Ellen70]

Hi Wildchild, if this is the first time it has happened to you then it sounds like a strong fear of the dentist and/or of being 'put off' to sleep. This would be a single phobia like being afraid of heights or afraid of dogs. Don't label what you had as a panic attack in the sense that people with panic disorder, gad or agoraphobia have panic attacks.

If you have to go to the dentist again then go to the dentist beforehand and explain to him/her about your fear and symptoms and they might be able to give you something to relax you before you have the procedure. There are also dentists who specialise in nervous patients, my sister takes her son to one and he is very calming and understanding.

Take care

Eibhlin