I go through a serious bout of this at least once or twice a month, on average, and unfortunately don't know anyone else who suffers. I'll try your tricks and just deal with gnaw marks on my hand if need be, because that has to be better than that horrible feeling. I always think I must be dying and I do have the sense that something is near me and going to get me, movement in the room, etc.

Discovering exactly what this was several years ago and making myself think about that when it happens does help, but it's still just terrible.