Introduction
In this article, we tell about Panic Attacks. A panic attack is a period of extremely high levels of anxiety that is followed by terrifying physical symptoms. These symptoms can include a racing heartbeat, difficulty breathing, faintness, trembling, and tension in the muscles.
Many people only experience one or two Panic Attacks throughout their lives, and the issue usually goes away when a stressful situation is over.
However, if you’ve experienced frequent, unanticipated panic attacks and have endured protracted periods of constant fear of an attack, you may be suffering from a condition known as panic disorder.
Symptoms
Although there are many types of panic attacks, symptoms typically peak within minutes. After a Panic Attack, you might feel exhausted and worn out.
Some of these symptoms or signs are commonly present during panic attacks.
- a feeling of impending danger or doom
- Fear of losing control or passing away
- a pounding, rapid heartbeat
- Sweating
- shaking or trembling
- throat discomfort or shortness of breath
- Chills
- a hot flash
- Nausea
- cramps in the abdomen
- chest pain
- Headache
- Unsteadiness, faintness, or dizziness
- The feeling of numbness or tingling
- unreality or a sense of detachment
The intense worry that you will experience another panic attack is among the worst aspects of them. You might be so afraid of having panic attacks that you steer clear of circumstances where they might happen.
Causes
Although the exact cause of panic attacks or panic disorder is unknown, the following factors might be involved:
- Genetics
- major anxiety
- temperament that is more vulnerable to anxiety or other negative feelings.
- Various modifications to how certain brain regions function
At first, panic attacks may strike suddenly and without warning, but over time, they are typically brought on by particular circumstances.
According to some research, panic attacks may be a result of your body’s natural fight-or-flight reaction to danger. For instance, your body would respond instinctively if a grizzly bear pursued you. Your breathing and heart rate would quicken as your body braced for a potentially fatal situation.
In a panic attack, many of the same responses take place. However, it is unknown why a panic attack happens when there is no immediate danger.
Risk factors
More women than men experience the symptoms of panic disorder, which frequently appear in late adolescence or early adulthood.
The risk of having panic attacks or panic disorder may be increased by a number of factors, which include:
- panic disorder or panic attacks in the family
- Significant life stressors like a loved one’s death or critical illness
- an upsetting occasion, like a sexual assault or a serious accident
- Significant life changes, like getting divorced or having a baby,
- smoking or consuming too much coffee
- the abuse inflicted physically or sexually during childhood
Treatment
Treatment for panic disorder typically involves a combination of interventions, such as medication and counselling. The most comprehensive and long-lasting effect is provided by cognitive behavioural therapy, followed by specific selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.
According to a 2009 review, therapy and medication both had positive effects, and the two together produced a much better outcome.
Breathing exercises
Hyperventilation is involved in the vast majority of cases, aggravating the symptoms of the panic attack. Exercises for breathing retraining assist in resetting the blood’s oxygen and CO2 levels.
Even though breathing into a paper bag was a common suggestion for treating acute panic attack symptoms in the short term, it has been criticized as being inferior to measured breathing and possibly making the attack worse by lowering needed blood oxygen.
While the paper bag technique increases necessary carbon dioxide and thus lessens symptoms, it may also excessively lower blood oxygen levels.
Capnometry, which measures CO2 exhaled, may aid in controlling breathing.
Medical treatment options
Treatment for the underlying physical conditions, such as diabetes or hyperthyroidism, that are causing the physical anxiety symptoms should stop the recurrence of the panic-like symptoms. Treatment options are available if anxiety is the cause of the panic attacks, such as:
- Medications
- Cognitive behaviour therapy is one form of psychotherapy.
- Biofeedback treatment
- stress reduction methods
- correct breathing methods
- calming strategies
- acquiring problem-solving techniques
- Changing one’s way of life by paying attention to diet, exercise, and sleep.
When to see a doctor
If you notice any symptoms of a panic attack, seek immediate medical help. Panic attacks are very uncomfortable, but they are not harmful. However, panic attacks can be difficult to manage on your own and, if untreated, they could get worse.
If you are unsure of the source of your symptoms or believe they may be related to another serious health issue, such as a heart attack, it is important to see your primary care provider for an evaluation.
Conclusions
Many people only experience one or two Panic Attacks throughout their lives, and the issue usually goes away when a stressful situation is over.
However, if you’ve experienced frequent, unanticipated panic attacks and have endured protracted periods of constant fear of an attack, you may be suffering from a condition known as panic disorder.
FAQ,s
What does a panic attack feel like?
A panic attack is characterised by sudden, extreme anxiety. Shaking, feeling disoriented, nausea, rapid, irregular heartbeats, dry mouth, breathlessness, sweating, and dizziness are just a few of the physical signs and symptoms of panic attacks.
Although not dangerous, panic attack symptoms can be extremely frightening.
How do you stop a panic attack?
- Reduce your caffeine intake.
- Regular exercise
- Adopt a balanced diet.
- Stress management.
- Before using herbal supplements or over-the-counter medications, consult your doctor. Anxiety can be heightened by some substances.
Can panic attacks last all day?
While other attacks might last longer, some attacks can reach their peak in a matter of seconds and last only a few minutes. The majority of research reports that one-time panic attacks can last up to 30 minutes. There have been reports of attacks lasting several hours or even days.
What’s the difference between anxiety and panic attacks?
Is it a panic attack or is it anxiety? The two are distinct, despite the fact that the terms are frequently used interchangeably. A panic disorder is characterised by episodes of panic attacks that are accompanied by physical symptoms, whereas anxiety is characterised by excessive thoughts and feelings of irrational fear and worry.