Panic Attack: Combating Anxiety and Fear|eMedEvents

 An acute, rapid burst of fear, worry, or anxiety is known as a panic attack. These attacks are overwhelming and exhibit both emotional and physical symptoms. When the "flight or fight" response is activated despite the absence of imminent danger, this can result in a panic attack. 

In seemingly stress-free situations, a person may experience the symptoms of a panic attack such as chest pain, feeling disconnected from reality, and having a heart attack or stroke. They may also experience difficulty in breathing, profuse sweating, trembling, or heart pounding. The symptoms of a panic attack are not dangerous but can be very frightening.

What is panic disorder?

Panic attacks are often a symptom of panic disorder, a type of anxiety disorder that can cause significant distress and interfere with daily activities. These attacks can be frequent or rare. In some cases, they occur several times a day or a few times a year. They often begin in the late teens or early adulthood. Panic disorder is more common in women than in men. Panic attacks can occur unexpectedly and have a significant impact on your daily routine.

Common Symptoms of Panic Attack

• Shaking
• Feeling Disorientated
• Nausea or stomach pain
• Rapid, Irregular Heartbeats
• Dry Mouth
• Breathlessness
• Sweating
• Dizziness or weakness

Signs of Panic Disorder

• Anxiety and fear attacks that occur suddenly and repeatedly
• A panic attack is characterized by a sense of being out of control as well as a fear of dying or approaching doom
• Intense fear of having another panic attack
• A fear of or avoidance of places where panic attacks have previously happened

Causes of Panic Disorder

The exact cause of the panic disorder is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. For example, stress, traumatic life events, and changes in routine can all trigger panic attacks. According to some researchers, panic attacks are similar to "false alarms" in which our body's natural survival mechanisms activate too frequently, too strongly, or a combination of the two. 

Managing Panic Attacks

The following strategies can help during an attack:

• Breathing techniques: Breathing techniques can help to concentrate on breathing. Controlling the breath can be helpful during an attack.
• Relaxation techniques: Panic and anxiety symptoms can be lessened by relaxation techniques like progressive muscle relaxation and guided imagery.
• Focusing on your senses: Our senses are strong defense mechanisms against stress, anxiety, and other negative emotions. In a panic attack situation, ask them to list a few things that aren't upsetting: They can perceive four things through sight, three through sound, two through smell, and one through taste.
• Grounding techniques: You can feel more in control by using grounding techniques. This technique is especially helpful if panic attacks cause you to feel disconnected from reality or yourselves. 

Treatment for panic attacks

Treatment for panic attacks typically involves therapy and medication, and many people find relief from their symptoms through a combination of both.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that can help people with panic disorder to change their thoughts and behaviors. This can help them cope with their panic attacks and reduce the frequency and severity of their symptoms. 

Medication, such as antidepressants and beta-blockers, can also be effective in treating panic attacks. Many people find relief from their symptoms through a combination of therapy and medication.

If you or someone you know is experiencing panic attacks, it is important to seek help from a healthcare professional.