What is a Panic Attack?
A panic attack is a sudden surge of intense fear or intense discomfort that reaches a peak within minutes. It can occur in the context of anxiety or other mental health disorders (i.e., depression, posttraumatic stress disorder).
Panic Attack Symptoms
You may have had symptoms that resemble a panic attack in the past. Think of a time you felt extremely scared or fearful; did you notice yourself sweating, chest beating uncontrollably, dizziness, or breathing more heavily?
These are similar symptoms of a panic attack but without a clear or obvious threat to one’s life.
The symptoms can be so frightening that one may go to the emergency room with fear they are actually dying.
The symptoms of a panic attack include:
- Pounding heart
- Increased heart rate
- Sweating
- Shortness of breath
- Feelings of choking
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Feeling dizzy
- Lightheadedness
- Feeling unsteady
- Chills or heat sensations
- Numbness or tingling sensations
- Feelings like you are detached from your surroundings
- Feeling like you are detached from yourself
If you think that you are having a heart attack or pulmonary embolism, please call 911 and tell them your symptoms.
What Causes Panic Attacks?
Some researchers suggest that panic attacks arise from unsuccessful defense against anxiety causing impulses. This leads to an amplified feeling of apprehension to even a slight trigger. Some may not even have a specific trigger and can have a spontaneous and unexpected attack.
Treatment for Panic Attacks
Benzodiazepines
This class of medications have the most immediate onset of action against panic attack. The major risks of benzodiazepines (that include Xanax, Klonopin, and Valium) are potential for dependence, cognitive impairment, and falls. This is especially true for long term use. Extensive discussion between you and your doctor will happen if it best suits your goals.
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
SSRIs have been shown to help reduce the frequency and intensity of the attacks. However, the effect may not be immediate as one would need to take it daily for several weeks before one would notice the benefits.
Psychotherapy
Cognitive and behavioral therapies are very effective treatments for panic disorder. The major focus point would be to explore the patient’s belief system and gradually reduce the symptoms over time.
How long can a Panic Attack last?
Panic attacks are often spontaneous. It can occasionally follow exertion, excitement, or emotional trauma. It generally lasts for 20 minutes, rarely more than one hour. Many mental health issues can arise from panic attacks including depression, phobias, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Do I have a Panic Disorder?
A panic disorder is defined as recurrent panic attacks. In addition to having the attack, one would feel either:
Persistent concern or worry about additional panic attacks or their consequences
A significant change in one’s behavior related to the attacks (i.e, avoiding places or triggers that may cause an attack)
Conclusion
A Panic attack is a sudden surge of intense fear or discomfort that can occur in the context of anxiety or other mental health disorders. The symptoms of a panic attack include pounding heart, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, and more. Panic attacks can be caused by unsuccessful defense against anxiety causing impulses, and can be treated with medications like benzodiazepines or SSRIs, as well as cognitive and behavioral therapies. Panic attacks generally last for 20 minutes and can lead to mental health issues like depression and phobias. A panic disorder is defined as recurrent panic attacks with persistent concern or worry about additional panic attacks or changes in behavior related to the attacks.
