Like everyone else, I sympathize with the anxiety that can be created by not being able to breathe or to recover from being breathless. I have two suggestions. The first is to practice working your way into being breathless and being able to recover. Knowing that you can recover by using pursed lip breathing or whatever tools work for you is huge in staving off panic. The second is to find a good cognitive behavioral therapist who can help you manage and control your anxiety.

You are not crazy. There is nothing whatsoever crazy about being frightened that you can't breathe; that is about as real as it gets! That said, there are ways to control both the anxiety and the breathing and you can learn both,

Not yet, but I see how that could happen to me. So even though I know parts of my body could let me down at any time, I keep pushing myself to get out and then find ways to reward myself when I'm out there. One summer I stopped occasionally at Baskin Robbins for a banana split which I ate at an outdoor table and people watched. Just anything really, to take my mind off myself.
Do you wake up in a panic or is it a dread of what the day will bring? (Of course you don't have to answer that:)

Something I once wrote down: 'Worry is an old man with a bowed head, carrying a load of feathers that he thinks is lead.' Anonymous

No you are not crazy. I would recommend you see your Dr. He may be able to prescribe anxiety medication for you. I had Co2 poisoning from having COPD and ended up with a lot of anxiety due to my brain just not being clear. My Dr's gave me medication for it until it did clear. Please do not be afraid of going out of your home. If you can, do. You will feel better getting fresh air. I know I do. It’s hard, because you just don't have the energy to even get dressed. But I know once I am and I'm out driving, I love it. If you don't have a portable oxygen concentrator, ask your Dr if he feels you could use one. If so, take it with you. It will help with the fear of not being able to breathe. Also, check with the company called Mobile Help. You can get a GPS necklace to wear, and always able to get help immediately without dialing 911. It takes the stress out of being without help. I've got one and don't go anywhere without it. I hope some of this helps. I hate seeing anyone suffer with this stuff. Take care and God Bless. Debra233

Hey Robin. I was going to not add anything but I suddenly realized that I am and have been for more years than I care to count been on an anti-anxiety med and every time I try to quit, I reduce myself to a sobbing, babbling wreck. You are not crazy, you are looking for help as you should. Good luck.

Hi Robin
I understand this is not easy but please try not to panic as this won’t help the situation , try listening to your favourite music breathe through your nose as deep as you can then exhale, if it’s not helping see your Doctor for help
Take care
Eric