Panic Attacks & Panic Disorder (Symptoms,Causes and Treatment)

The abrupt onset of extreme dread or discomfort known as a panic attack can be accompanied by physical symptoms including sweating, shaking, and shortness of breath. Most panic episodes peak within a few minutes and last for 10 to 20 minutes, however they occasionally last longer. Numerous things, such as stress, anxiety, phobias, and specific medical disorders, can cause panic attacks.

Anxiety disorders like panic disorder are characterized by unplanned, frequent panic attacks. People who have panic disorder may suffer chronic fear about having more attacks in addition to the symptoms of panic attacks. They may also avoid situations or activities that they think can set off an attack. An individual’s quality of life may be significantly impacted by panic disorder, which can also cause social isolation and the avoidance of once-enjoyed activities.

Psychotherapy and medication are frequently used in the treatment of panic disorder. While medicine, such as antidepressants or benzodiazepines, might help lessen the frequency and severity of panic attacks, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be useful in helping people learn new coping skills and methods for managing panic episodes. Sometimes, modifying one’s lifestyle to include activities like regular exercise and stress-reduction strategies can help manage the symptoms of panic disorder.

This article covers the following topics :

An anxiety attack is what?

The symptoms of a panic attack can include heart palpitations, sweating, shaking, shortness of breath, sensations of disassociation from the surroundings, and sudden, severe bouts of anxiety or discomfort. Generally speaking, panic attacks peak within a few minutes and can last anywhere between 10 and 20 minutes, but they occasionally persist longer. People who suffer from panic attacks frequently describe feeling like the end is near or having a fear of losing control.

Although the precise origins of panic disorder are not fully known, it is thought that a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors may be at play. A family history of anxiety disorders, past trauma or abuse experienced as a kid, and specific personality features like neuroticism or anxiety sensitivity are some risk factors for panic disorder.

Psychotherapy and medication are frequently used in the treatment of panic disorder. CBT is a sort of therapy that has been proven to be beneficial in teaching people with panic disorder new coping mechanisms and techniques for controlling panic episodes. To assist people learn to tolerate and regulate their symptoms, CBT may include exposure treatment, in which they are gradually exposed to circumstances they worry will set off a panic attack.

Panic disorder may also be treated with drugs like benzodiazepines or antidepressants. Since they can gradually lessen the frequency and intensity of panic attacks, antidepressants are frequently used as the first line of treatment for panic disorder. A class of drug known as benzodiazepines has the ability to help with the immediate relief of panic attack symptoms, but it also carries the risk of dependence and withdrawal symptoms.

In addition to counseling and medicine, modifying one’s way of life through activities like regular exercise, stress reduction strategies, and good sleep hygiene may also assist to control the symptoms of panic disorder. Working together with their medical professionals will help people with panic disorder create a thorough treatment plan that is suited to their particular requirements and preferences. Most people with panic disorder are able to manage their symptoms and enhance their quality of life with the help of proper treatment.

What distinguishes an anxiety attack from a panic attack?

Although the terms “panic attack” and “anxiety attack” are frequently used interchangeably, they are separate.

A panic attack is a rapid, acute feeling of anxiety or discomfort that usually peaks within a few minutes. It may also include physical symptoms including palpitations in the heart, perspiration, shaking, shortness of breath, and feelings of disconnection from reality or the surroundings. Often unpredictable, panic episodes can happen without a clear cause.

While a variety of symptoms might appear in reaction to stress or anxiety, an anxiety attack is a broad word used to characterize them. Feelings of anxiety or unease, restlessness, impatience, trouble concentrating, muscle tension, and sleep difficulties are a few examples of these symptoms. While anxiety attacks and panic attacks may both have some of the same symptoms, anxiety attacks are usually less severe and don’t usually feature a quick onset of fear or a sense of impending doom.

Both terms are not considered recognized diagnoses, and the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) specifies specific criteria for diagnosing panic disorder and other anxiety disorders.

What causes panic attacks?

Anxiety disorders like panic disorder are characterized by sporadic and recurrent panic attacks. A panic attack is a rapid, overwhelming wave of anxiety or discomfort that usually peaks within a few minutes. It may also include physical symptoms such palpitations in the heart, perspiration, shaking, shortness of breath, and feelings of disassociation from reality or the surroundings.

People who have panic disorder may have panic attacks without a clear trigger or may start to fear getting them again. Fear of panic attacks can cause major behavioral changes, such as avoiding places or situations where a panic attack might happen.

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) lists specific criteria for diagnosing panic disorder, such as recurrent and unexpected panic attacks, persistent worry or concern about future panic attacks, and changes in behavior related to the fear of panic attacks.

A combination of medicine, such as SSRIs or benzodiazepines, and psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or exposure therapy, may be used to treat panic disorder. Many sufferers of panic disorder are able to control their symptoms and lead happy lives with the help of effective treatment.

How frequent are anxiety attacks?

According to estimates, 11% of the general population will experience at least one panic episode during their lives. Women are more likely than men to have panic episodes, and they frequently start in adolescence or early adulthood.

Although they can happen to persons who have no history of anxiety or mental health issues, panic attacks are also typical signs of panic disorder and other anxiety disorders. Additionally, panic attacks may be brought on by the use of specific drugs, such as coffee or cannabis, or they may be a symptom of other medical disorders, such as hyperthyroidism or heart disease.

It is crucial to consult with a healthcare physician if you have panic attacks or other signs of anxiety or depression in order to receive a proper diagnosis and course of therapy.

What signs indicate a panic attack?

The signs of a panic attack might differ from person to person, but they frequently involve a combination of scary and overpowering bodily and emotional experiences. Common signs of a panic attack include the following:

1-A sudden onset of severe anxiety or fear

2-A beating or racing heart

3-Sweating

4-Shuddering or trembling

5-Exhalation problems or choking sensations

6-Chest discomfort or pain

7-Nausea or stomach pain

8-Feeling faint, woozy, or lightheaded

9-Feeling cut off from oneself or one’s environment

10-Fear of stumbling or becoming insane

11-Fear of dying (#11)

12-Feelings of numbness or tingling

13-Flashes of heat or cold

These symptoms frequently reach their climax within a few minutes and can linger for an hour or longer. Numerous people may experience exhaustion, emotional exhaustion, or embarrassment after a panic attack. While panic attacks can be extremely terrifying and intense, it’s vital to remember that they are not life-threatening and normally pass on their own. The frequency or severity of panic attacks, however, can affect daily living and quality of life and may call for medical or psychiatric care.

Can a panic attack endure for a long time?

A panic attack’s duration can differ from person to person and episode to episode. A panic episode typically lasts between 20 and 30 minutes and reaches its peak severity within the first 10 minutes. However, some panic episodes may just last a short while, but others may continue an hour or longer.

In some situations, people may quickly experience several panic attacks, with a small respite in their symptoms in between. This can be very upsetting and make it challenging to carry out daily tasks.

While panic attacks can be extremely terrifying and intense, it’s vital to remember that they are not life-threatening and normally pass on their own. However, it’s crucial to speak with a healthcare provider for a precise diagnosis and the best course of therapy if you have frequent, severe panic attacks or if they affect your everyday life.

What triggers anxiety attacks?

Research indicates that a mix of genetic, environmental, and psychological variables may contribute to the development of panic attacks, while the precise reason is not entirely understood.

The following are some elements that could raise the likelihood of panic attacks:

1-Genetics: Some studies indicate a potential hereditary component to panic disorder and panic episodes, which may run in families.

2-Brain chemistry: Serotonin levels that are lower or norepinephrine levels that are higher in the brain have been linked to variations in neurotransmitter levels during panic episodes.

3-Environmental triggers: Stressful life events, phobias, or substance usage are a few examples of scenarios or experiences that might cause panic attacks.

4-Chronic stress: Panic attacks may arise as a result of persistent stress or anxiety.

5-Medical conditions: Some health issues, including hypoglycemia, mitral valve prolapse, and hyperthyroidism, can make people more susceptible to panic attacks.

6-Medication side effects: Antidepressants or stimulants, for example, might cause panic attacks as a side effect.

It’s crucial to remember that anyone can experience panic attacks, regardless of age, gender, or background. It’s crucial to speak with a healthcare professional if you suffer from frequent or severe panic attacks in order to receive a proper diagnosis and course of therapy.

Why do panic attacks occur?

There are many potential causes of panic attacks, and each person will experience them for different reasons. The following are some typical causes of panic attacks:

1-Stressful life events: Some people get panic attacks as a result of major life upheavals like divorce, job loss, or the loss of a loved one.

2-Phobias: Certain phobias, such as a fear of heights, flying, or small places, might make some people experience panic attacks.

3-Social circumstances: In social circumstances like gatherings, meetings, or public speaking engagements, some persons may suffer panic attacks.

4-Physical sensations: For certain people, physical symptoms like a racing heartbeat, shortness of breath, or lightheadedness can cause panic attacks.

5-Substance abuse: For some people, using substances like caffeine, alcohol, or drugs might cause panic attacks.

6-Medical conditions: A number of illnesses, including hyperthyroidism and mitral valve prolapse, can cause panic episodes.

It’s crucial to remember that not everyone experiences panic attacks with a clear trigger, and some people may experience panic attacks seemingly out of the blue. It’s crucial to speak with a healthcare professional if you suffer from frequent or severe panic attacks in order to receive a proper diagnosis and course of therapy.

How are panic disorders identified?

Symptoms reported by the patient, a physical examination, and an analysis of the patient’s medical history are commonly used to diagnose panic attacks. To identify panic attacks, there is neither a single diagnostic nor a particular laboratory test.

A variety of tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) to rule out cardiac issues, may be carried out by the healthcare professional to rule out any potential medical diseases that may be the source of the symptoms. They might also probe for information on triggers or other signs of anxiety, as well as the frequency and intensity of the panic episodes.

A person must have recurrent, sudden panic episodes in addition to at least one month of continuous fear about having more panic attacks or their effects, such as avoiding particular places or activities, in order to be diagnosed with panic disorder. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) criteria can be used by a medical professional to identify panic disorder.

It’s crucial to remember that panic attacks can occasionally be a sign of other underlying mental health issues, such as post-traumatic stress disorder or generalized anxiety disorder. A healthcare professional can perform a thorough evaluation to identify the underlying cause of the panic attacks and suggest the best course of action.

How is anxiety disorder identified?

A healthcare provider or mental health expert will often diagnose panic disorder based on the presence of specific symptoms and a psychological assessment.

A healthcare professional may first conduct a physical examination and medical testing to rule out any underlying medical illnesses that could be the source of the symptoms before diagnosing panic disorder. The patient’s medical background and any current drugs may also be brought up.

The medical professional can then make a diagnosis of panic disorder using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) criteria. The DSM-5 states that a person must have had repeated, unexpected panic episodes and at least one month of ongoing fear or concern about having further panic attacks or the effects of having them, such as avoiding particular situations or activities.

Other requirements for a diagnosis of panic disorder are listed in the DSM-5 and include:

*Neither a substance’s side effects nor a medical condition are the cause of the panic attacks.

*Another mental health diagnosis, such as social anxiety disorder or a specific phobia, is not a better fit to explain the panic attacks.

*The panic attacks significantly disrupt daily functioning or cause severe anxiety.

It’s crucial to remember that panic attacks can occasionally be a sign of other underlying mental health issues, such as post-traumatic stress disorder or generalized anxiety disorder. A healthcare provider or mental health specialist can carry out a thorough evaluation to ascertain the primary cause of the panic attacks and suggest the most suitable course of action.

How are panic disorders and panic attacks managed?

Psychotherapy, medication, and dietary changes can all be used to treat panic disorders and panic attacks. The purpose of treatment is to lessen panic attacks’ occurrence and severity, enhance general quality of life, and stop the emergence of other mental health issues.

The first-line therapy for panic disorder is frequently psychotherapy, or talk therapy. A form of psychotherapy known as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has proven to be successful in treating panic disorder. CBT tries to alter the unfavorable thought and action patterns that cause panic attacks. In CBT, a therapist works with the patient to pinpoint and combat harmful beliefs, impart relaxation skills, and introduce the patient gradually to circumstances that set off panic attacks.

Panic disorder can also be managed with medication. The frequency and intensity of panic episodes can be decreased with the aid of antidepressants, such as tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). A class of anti-anxiety drugs called benzodiazepines may also be prescribed to help control the immediate symptoms of panic attacks, but long-term usage is typically not advised due to the possibility of dependence and withdrawal symptoms.

Aside from counseling and medicine, altering one’s way of life can help manage panic disorders and panic attacks. The frequency and intensity of panic attacks can be decreased by engaging in regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and using stress reduction strategies like mindfulness meditation or deep breathing. Avoiding chemicals like caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine might also be beneficial because these things can start or aggravate panic episodes.

The development of additional mental health issues like depression or substance misuse can result from untreated panic disorder, thus it’s critical to get therapy for panic attacks and panic disorder. Most sufferers of panic disorder can control their symptoms and enhance their general quality of life with the right care.

What can I do to avoid panic attacks?

Although it is not always feasible to completely prevent panic attacks, there are some measures you can do to lower your chance of doing so:

1-Exercise stress management skills: Stress and anxiety, which can cause panic attacks, can be reduced by regularly practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing, yoga, or meditation.

2-Exercise frequently: Exercise frequently can help lower anxiety and enhance both general physical and mental health.

3-Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine: For some people, these substances can start or exacerbate panic episodes.

4-Get enough sleep: Sleep deprivation raises the risk of panic episodes and increases anxiety.

If you have a history of panic attacks or are exhibiting signs of anxiety, speak with your healthcare professional. They could have suggestions for treatments or be able to send you to a mental health specialist for more assessment and care.

Consider counseling or therapy as a solution. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can assist you in recognizing and challenging the unhelpful thought patterns that cause anxiety and panic episodes. Additionally, therapy can teach you how to unwind and support the creation of symptom management coping mechanisms.

Keep in mind that everyone is unique, so what works for one person might not work for someone else. Finding the proper mix of techniques that work for you may take some time, but with perseverance and support, panic episodes can be less frequent and less severe.

What is the prognosis for panic disorder and panic attacks?

With the right care, the prognosis for panic episodes and panic disorder is typically favorable. Numerous sufferers of panic disorder are able to control their symptoms and maintain active, fulfilling lives. Without treatment, panic disorders and panic attacks can be incapacitating and have a substantial negative influence on a person’s quality of life.

The likelihood of a positive outcome increases with earlier therapy. Therapy, medication, and lifestyle modifications are all possible forms of treatment for panic attacks and panic disorder. In order to manage their anxiety and lessen the frequency and severity of panic attacks, people can acquire cognitive restructuring, relaxation techniques, and coping mechanisms in therapy. Antidepressants and other anti-anxiety drugs, for example, can be used to treat panic disorder.

It’s crucial to keep in mind that rehabilitation is a process, and it could take some time to find a treatment strategy that is effective for you. It is possible to control panic attacks and panic disorder and enhance your general wellbeing with the correct help and tools.

How do I prevent panic attacks?

There are certain things you can do if you’re having a panic attack to help manage your symptoms and stop the attack from getting worse. The following tactics could be useful:

1-Take slow, deep breaths to assist your body become more relaxed and less anxious. Keep your attention on inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth.

2-Utilize muscular relaxation techniques by contracting and releasing various muscle groups in your body to lessen stress and worry.

3-Ground yourself in the present: Use your senses to pay attention to your surroundings and re-center yourself. Describe what you can see, hear, feel, and smell.

4-Challenge your negative thoughts by trying to reinterpret them in a more constructive manner. Keep in mind that panic attacks are transient and that you may overcome them.

5-Seek support: Ask a dependable friend or family member for help, or think about consulting a mental health expert.

It’s crucial to keep in mind that various people may respond better to different techniques. To figure out what works best for you, some trial and error may be necessary. It’s crucial to get professional assistance if you have frequent or severe panic attacks so that you can create a customized treatment plan.

How can I assist a person experiencing a panic attack?

Here are some things you can do to support a companion who is having a panic attack:

1-Remind the person that panic attacks are a common and treatable ailment and that you are there to support them. 1. Remain composed and encouraging.

2-Encourage the person to take calm, deep breaths, inhaling through their nose, and exhaling through their mouth. With them, you can exercise deep breathing.

3-Encourage the individual to pay attention to their immediate surroundings and the present moment. You can ask them to describe any sounds, sights, or sensations.

4-Reassure the individual that panic attacks are transient and will go away by doing one of the following: 4. Offer words of support and encouragement.

5-Don’t judge or criticize the individual having the panic attack: It’s crucial to refrain from criticizing or judging the person having the panic attack. Try to be supportive and understanding instead.

6-Encourage the client to get professional assistance from a mental health expert if they are having frequent or severe panic episodes.

Keep in mind that every person has a unique experience with panic attacks, and that different approaches may be more effective for various individuals. The most crucial thing you can do is to support and encourage the person by being there for them.

When should I schedule a visit with my doctor?

If you are having panic attacks or experiencing signs of panic disorder, or if these symptoms are interfering with your everyday activities, you should consult a healthcare professional. In order to control your illness and stop more panic attacks, it’s also crucial to frequently visit your healthcare practitioner if you have a history of anxiety or panic disorder. Additionally, it’s crucial to get medical help if you feel any symptoms of a medical emergency, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or other symptoms. If necessary, your healthcare practitioner can send you to a mental health expert or assist in the diagnosis and treatment of panic attacks.