Has anyone experienced facial numbness during a panic attack?

Hey everyone, I've been dealing with anxiety and panic attacks for a while now, and I've noticed something strange recently. During some of my panic attacks, I've felt a numbness in my face. It's not every time, but it has happened a few times. I'm curious if this has happened to anyone else? Does anyone know what could be causing this or how to cope with it? Any insights would be greatly appreciated! Take care, MHA_Advocate

Top Replies

Hi MHA_Advocate, Thanks for sharing your experience. It's not uncommon for people to have unusual physical sensations during a panic attack, including facial numbness. This could be due to the body's natural response to stress and anxiety, which can affect blood flow and nerve sensations. It's important to remember that these symptoms are temporary and will pass with time. Best, Admin

In addition to what I said earlier, there are some coping strategies that might help manage the numbness and other symptoms of a panic attack. Deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and grounding techniques (like focusing on a specific object or sensation) can all be effective. It might also be helpful to create a 'panic plan' ahead of time, which outlines the steps you can take to calm down when you feel an attack coming on. Warmly, Admin

It's important to note that while physical symptoms like facial numbness can be alarming, they are a normal part of the panic attack experience for many people. However, if you're ever concerned about a new or unusual symptom, or if your panic attacks are interfering with your daily life, it's always a good idea to speak with a mental health professional. They can provide you with a proper diagnosis, treatment options, and ongoing support. Take care, Admin