A member asked:

I have anxiety attacks and i was told i quit breathing for a few minutes during my last attack. what causes this? is this normal?

7 doctors weighed in across 3 answers

Dr. James Burns answered

Specializes in Emergency Medicine

Breath holding: is common with acute anxiety and panic and is not dangerous. Treatment of the anxiety resolves this issue.

Dr Husar agreed

Answered 7/8/2014

3.9k views

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Dr. Diane Minich answered

You actually do not: stop breathing for several minutes usually 30 seconds or less The panic just makes you feel like you cannot breath.

Dr Husar and another doctor agreed

Answered 2/26/2016

3.9k views

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Very commoe: In panic attacks people normally have changes in their breathing patterns. You should see about starting yoga, meditation or taking a medication as this can all help and be life changing.

Dr Fowler and 3 doctors agreed

Answered 5/20/2016

3.9k views

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A member asked:

I have anxiety attacks and i was told i quit breathing for a few minutes during my last attack. what causes this? is this normal?

7 doctors weighed in across 3 answers

Dr. James Burns answered

Dr Husar agreed

Dr. Diane Minich answered

Dr Husar and another doctor agreed

Dr. Tamara Lyday answered

Dr Fowler and 3 doctors agreed

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