Panic Attacks: Symptoms and How to Manage Them

What are Panic Attacks?

The fact is, panic attacks are not what some might think, as something physically linked to the heart; rather, they are quite the opposite.

Panic attacks are episodes of intense fear resulting in bodily disruptions such as rapid heartbeat or difficulty breathing, to the point where a person feels like they're dying. Often, others might see no true reason for this fear or any actual danger of any sort. These episodes last for several minutes.

What increases the fear for those experiencing panic attacks is their feeling of complete loss of control. It's a sensation akin to falling into an abyss while reaching out for help with no rescuer, even as their screams get stifled in their throat.

Do Panic Attacks Recur?

Some experience a panic attack only once or at most twice, but there are individuals who face panic attacks multiple times and are diagnosed with panic disorder. Panic disorder is a constant fear of experiencing panic attacks, leading these individuals to live in a modified behavioral manner to avoid episodes. Annually, between 2% and 3% of the population are affected by these episodes, with women being more prone to panic attacks compared to men. The onset can begin in adolescence and continue into adulthood.

What are the Symptoms of Panic Attacks?

Symptoms of panic attacks may include some of the following:

- Dizziness and balance disturbances.

- Chest pain or severe discomfort.

- Shortness of breath and choking sensation.

- Fear of losing control and dying.

- Excessive sweating and chills.

- Trembling.

- Detachment from the surroundings "feeling disconnected from the environment".

- Tingling and numbness in the body and extremities.

- Unreal feelings.

- Rapid heartbeat.

- Nausea and diarrhea.

A person typically experiences four or more of these symptoms during an episode. Those affected live in constant fear and anxiety about their recurrence. Although not life-threatening, these episodes significantly influence their quality of life, making them live in fear and isolate themselves. Panic disorder can also be accompanied by other conditions like anxiety disorders and depression.

What Causes Panic Attacks?

Doctors have yet to identify the exact reasons that cause panic attacks, but they suspect that the following factors may contribute, although not confirmed explicitly:

- Changes in brain chemistry: Certain drugs or hormonal activity in the body can influence brain chemistry, sometimes resulting in panic episodes.

- Genetic factors: Individuals with a family history of anxiety disorders or panic disorder are believed to be at a higher risk.

- Anxiety disorders: Those suffering from PTSD, social anxiety disorder, or general anxiety are more susceptible to panic attacks.

- Drugs and narcotics: Some medications and narcotics have side effects that may trigger panic attacks "a healthcare provider should be consulted immediately if a panic attack occurs after taking prescribed medication".

- Nighttime panic attacks: If occurrences of these attacks are noted during sleep, they're likely related to anxiety, lack of sleep, and general sleep disorders.

- Symptom of other medical conditions: It is believed that some physical health issues like heart diseases, thyroid disorders, and sleep disturbances can occasionally trigger panic attacks.

- Psychological stress: Psychological stress is a significant factor and can be considered a primary suspect behind anxiety attacks. Exposure to bullying, work stress, or complex family issues may lead to episodes. Likewise, stress resulting from traumas like losing a loved one, experiencing a severe accident, or even enduring assault can trigger panic attacks.

How is Panic Disorder Diagnosed?

Since panic disorder has physical symptoms, it is crucial to rule out other medical conditions. Medical examinations, including ECGs, are conducted to rule out heart-related issues and other health concerns. The patient's experience of panic episodes is observed, especially if the episodes are frequent, unexplained, and sudden. The patient's own behaviors are also monitored—do they constantly fear episodes? Do they avoid people and situations perceived as triggers? Do they tend to isolate themselves and struggle with participation?

Can Panic Attacks be Treated?

Yes, treating panic attacks is possible by combining medication and therapy. A doctor might succeed in helping you overcome the episodes completely or at least reduce their frequency and severity, providing strategies to control your emotions to prevent them. Through cognitive-behavioral therapy, specialists aid in understanding the episodes and managing them by altering the thoughts and behaviors that lead to the attacks. Therapy sessions help patients grasp their emotions and how these develop into the episodes.

Medication may include antidepressants and anxiolytics. Specialists also encourage exercise, avoiding caffeine, getting adequate sleep, and practicing relaxation techniques to reduce stress. Family and friend support is also essential.