Understanding Panic Attacks

Panic attacks are classified as a sudden episode of intense fear that prompts severe reactions in your body. The body immediately goes into the fight-or-flight mode, releasing large amounts of adrenaline into the bloodstream. Many people say they feel as if they are dying or having a heart attack.

Signs and symptoms. A panic attack often sneaks up on you. It can last 10 minutes for a typical attack, or up to a day for severe attacks. The person becomes very fatigued after an attack subsides. Signs and symptoms may include heart palpitations, sweating, trembling, hyperventilation, chills, hot flashes, nausea, abdominal cramping, chest pain, headache, dizziness, faintness, throat tightness, trouble swallowing, and a sense of impending death. People who suffer other mental health conditions, such as depression, often experience panic attacks, also.

Causes. It is not known what causes panic attacks but heredity, stress and certain biochemical factors may play a role. Researchers believe the body's natural fight-or-flight response to danger is being activated for no obvious reason. This causes the heart rate and breathing to speed up.

Seeking medical advice. You should see your doctor if your panic attacks are frequent, you worry constantly about having more attacks, or you avoid locations or situations in which you have previously had an attack.

Complications. Panic attacks can interfere with your life. You can develop a fear of fear if you are constantly avoiding places you have experienced an attack. Avoiding places people consider normal situations may help develop other mental disorders as well.

Panic attacks in children can interfere with their development, social life and schoolwork. They may not even leave the house to go to school in order to avoid situations in which they fear having a panic attack. This can lead to depression, suicide, and abuse of alcohol and other drugs.

Treatment. Treatment for panic attacks is very effective. Treatment may involve:

Medications such as the antidepressant Zoloft, Paxil or Prozac. These medications usually improve or eliminate the symptoms of panic attacks. To relive anxiety, your doctor may prescribe Klonopin or Xanax, a type of medication called a benzodiazepine

(minor tranquilizer). Benzodiazepines may be habit-forming if taken for a long time. Talk to your doctor if you think you may have become dependent.

Cognitive behavior therapy will help you better understand your panic attacks and how to deal with them. Sessions will be with your psychiatrist or psychologist and you will learn the things that trigger your attacks and different ways to cope with anxiety, such as relaxation techniques.

In conclusion, panic attacks are not uncommon. If you find yourself having an attack, relax and practice deep breathing. If your attacks are reoccurring and interfere with your life, please see your doctor.

Resources:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panic_attack

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/panic-attacks/DS00338/DSECTION=1

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/panic-attacks/DS00338/DSECTION=2

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/panic-attacks/DS00338/DSECTION=3

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/panic-attacks/DS00338/DSECTION=4