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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Are Moments Of Breathlessness And Racing Heart Normal In Rape Victim?

I am a victim of tape....is it normal to still have moments where I feel like I can t breathe and like my heart is racing and to have moments where I cant stop the flash backs? It has been three years and I still have times where if feels like I am hyperventilating.
Fri, 20 Jun 2014
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Psychiatrist,  's  Response
Hi,

I read your query and can understand what you must have been through. The symptoms of heart racing and hyperventilating can be due to anxiety. Since you are having such symptoms in addition to flashbacks, it is probable that you are suffering from post traumatic stress disorder. This is giving rise to all the current set of symptoms that you are struggling with.

I suggest that you seek a psychiatric consultation for your problems. Treatment with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors would be helpful. In addition, sessions of cognitive behavior therapy or supportive psychotherapy would also be helpful.

Best wishes.
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Are Moments Of Breathlessness And Racing Heart Normal In Rape Victim?

Hi, I read your query and can understand what you must have been through. The symptoms of heart racing and hyperventilating can be due to anxiety. Since you are having such symptoms in addition to flashbacks, it is probable that you are suffering from post traumatic stress disorder. This is giving rise to all the current set of symptoms that you are struggling with. I suggest that you seek a psychiatric consultation for your problems. Treatment with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors would be helpful. In addition, sessions of cognitive behavior therapy or supportive psychotherapy would also be helpful. Best wishes.