What is a panic attack?
A panic attack is a sudden episode of intense fear that provokes strong physical reactions when there is no real threat. Panic attacks can be quite frightening as you may think you are losing control, having a heart attack or even dying. They are unexpected and can surprise us at any time - while we are at work, driving or walking in the mall.
Panic attacks have different variations, but generally subside within 30 minutes. After it passes, you may feel very exhausted.
Usually panic attacks include 3 or more of these symptoms:
- A sense of danger
- A sense of helplessness
- A fear of loss of control, going insane, or death
- Increased heart rate
- Sweating
- Shivering
- Shortness of breath or a feeling of constriction around the neck
- Hot or cold waves
- Dizziness, vertigo, a feeling that you might faint
- Stomach spasms
- Chest pains
- Headache
- A feeling of unreality (derealization and depersonalization)
- Numbness
One of the most unpleasant things about panic attacks is the intense fear of experiencing another one, which can lead to behavioral changes - avoiding situations or places that cause intense fear that could lead to a panic attack.
Most often panic attacks are a manifestation a panic disorder, but can also be a sign of other anxious states. Although they are very unpleasant and uncomfortable, they are not life-threatening. However, a person can hardly cope with panic attacks alone, and they can become stronger. That's why we need to seek help from a specialist - a psychiatrist and/or a psychotherapist.
Left untreated, panic attacks and panic disorder can affect almost every aspect of our lives. As they can lead to:
- Specific phobias, like a fear of driving or leaving home
- Frequent visits to the doctor or emergency room without an accompanying health issue
- Avoidance of social situations
- Problems at school/work
- Depression, anxiety disorders or other mental illness
- Increased risk of suicidal ideation
- Alcohol/substance abuse
Risk factors
Psychological and social
- Stressful personal or professional events. In fact, the trigger is not the stress itself, but the individual's inability to respond to it.
- Psychotherapy can help in developing working strategies for dealing with stress and maladaptive behaviours.
Biological factors
- Predisposition to disruptions in the biochemical balance.
- Psychiatrists prescribe pharmaceutical treatment with the goal of restoring this balance.
Currently, it is believed that a combined treatment of both pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy is most effective.
It is important to note that the symptoms of panic attacks are similar to those of other serious health issues, like a myocardial infarction. It is therefore important to also turn to your GP in case you are unsure of what is causing the symptoms.