Panic Attacks are sudden periods of intense anxiety. Learn why they occur.

Panic attacks are described as very sudden periods of intense anxiety. There can be mounting physiological arousal, fear, stomach problems and discomfort. The onset of these episodes is typically abrupt, and may have no obvious triggers.

Even though these attacks may appear to be random, they are a part of an evolutionary response often referred to as fight or flight. This occurs when there appears to be no reason for such a response.

This response floods the body with hormones, particularly adrenaline. The body uses adrenaline when it feels it is defending against harm. Experiencing a panic attack is said to be one of the most intensely frightening, upsetting and uncomfortable experiences of a person’s life.

The symptoms of a panic attack usually last just about thirty minutes. However, panic attacks can be as short as 15 seconds. Even though panic attacks may form a cyclic series of episodes which last for an extended period, sometimes for hours.

The effect of a panic attack will vary from person to person. First-time sufferers, may call for emergency services. Others who experience a panic attack, mostly for the first time, fear they are having a heart attack or a nervous breakdown

While the strong symptoms of a panic attack may cause one to feel that the body is failing, it is in fact protecting itself from harm

The various symptoms of a panic attack can be understood as follows:

First, there is frequently (but not always) the quick onset of fear with virtially no provoking stimulus. This leads to a release of adrenaline (epinephrine) which brings about the ancient fight-or-flight response. The body now sets up for strenuous physical activity. This leads to a faster heart rate and rapid breathing which may be felt as shortness of breath. Sweating may also occur.

Because strenuous activity rarely follows, hyperventilation leads to a drop in carbon dioxide levels in the lungs and then in the blood. This leads to shifts in blood pH , which can lead to many other symptoms. These include tingling or numbness, dizziness, burning and lightheadedness

A panic attack can cause blood sugar to be drawn away from the brain and towards the major muscles. It is also possible for the person experiencing such an attack to feel as though they are unable to catch their breath, and they begin to take deeper breaths, which also acts to decrease carbon dioxide levels in the blood.

People who have had a panic attack, may develop irrational fears,or phobias, and begin to avoid certain situations. Eventually, the pattern of avoidance and level of anxiety about another attack may reach the point where those with panic disorder are unable to drive or even step out of their dwelling. At this stage, the person is said to have panic disorder with agoraphobia

This can be one of the most harmful side-effects of panic disorder because it may prevent sufferers from seeking treatment. It is well known that upwards of 90% of agoraphobics do achieve full recovery. Agoraphobia is not a fear of certain places but a fear of having panic attacks in certain places.

It is important to note that agoraphobia is by no means a hopeless situation. Sufferers often do not realize that they have experienced these same situations before and nothing terrible occurred. Successful treatment is possible.

People who have repeated, persistent attacks or feel severe anxiety about having another attack are said to have panic disorder. Panic disorder is strikingly different from other types of anxiety disorders in that panic attacks are often sudden and unprovoked.

Those with panic attacks may be successfully treated with therapy, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy, antidepressants and/or anti-anxiety medication.

Disclaimer – This information is not meant to diagnose, cure, treat or mitigate any disease or condition. Before using consult your doctor or medical advisor. This information is not approved by any government agency – it is for educational purposes only.