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Anxiety Triggers Panic Attack on Roller Coaster
4 Jun
Summary
- Intense anxiety led to a panic attack on a roller coaster.
- Physical symptoms included numb face and frozen, claw-like hands.
- Her viral video helped others realize similar anxiety responses.

A 21-year-old woman's intense anticipation anxiety culminated in a severe panic attack while riding a roller coaster at an amusement park. The frightening experience caused her hands to cramp into a claw-like position, her face to go numb, and her body to tingle, leading her to momentarily fear she was having a stroke. The physical symptoms, particularly the carpopedal spasms in her hands, eventually subsided about ten minutes after the ride concluded.
Despite the traumatic event, she did not require medical attention and continued to enjoy her day at the park. Inspired by her own research into carpopedal spasms, she shared her story on TikTok, where it unexpectedly went viral. The video connected with hundreds of viewers who reported similar experiences during periods of high anxiety, validating their own physical responses and making them feel less alone.