I need to speak in front of people every so often for work. For some time, I have experienced attacks - heart begins to beat extremely fast, I can't catch my breath, and feel a cold rush come over me. Unfortunately, it's happening more often than not and I can't point to when it started, or how, or what may have triggered (no trauma, embarrassing moments, etc., that I can think of). The attack is 100x greater than my description here is making it seem.

I have tried rehearsing my speeches and breathing exercises, but this has been to no avail. I try to tell myself that the folks I'm speaking to are no different than me, they are my equal, but I still choke up whenever I need to speak in front of others.

I haven't taken any medication for this and have not seen a doctor, but am at the point where I will do whatever I need to do to be able to get by. If I do seek a doctor, should I be seeking a psychiatrist? 

Thank you all!