Unexpected fear: panic attacks and overcoming them

A panic attack, or panic attack, is a sudden, unexplained state of intense fear and anxiety that occurs for no apparent reason and is accompanied by strong physical reactions. These attacks can cause feelings of loss of body control, fear of heart attack, or even death.

Chronic panic attacks
Almost everyone can experience one or two panic attacks in a lifetime. However, if the attacks recur frequently and cause a constant fear of the next attack, it may indicate panic disorder, a chronic condition that requires treatment.

In the past, panic attacks were attributed to stress or nerves, but are now recognized as a separate condition, sometimes called “autonomic crisis” or “cardioneurosis.” Although panic attacks can significantly impair quality of life, treatment is usually effective.

Panic attack symptoms
Physical symptoms of a panic attack include shortness of breath, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, chest pain, sweating, and trembling. Because these symptoms are similar to signs of serious illnesses, it is important to make an accurate diagnosis in order to prescribe proper treatment.

During a panic attack, symptoms may include:

A sense of doom and fear of death;
rapid heartbeat and pulse rate;
sweating;
violent trembling;
shortness of breath and hyperventilation;
chills and hot flashes;
nausea and abdominal cramps;
chest pain;
headache and dizziness;
weakness and difficulty breathing;
numbness or tingling sensations in the extremities;
confusion.
Attacks begin suddenly and peak within the first ten minutes, lasting about half an hour. After an attack, the person may feel tired and exhausted.

Fear of loss of control
The most frightening aspect of a panic attack is the intense fear of losing control and the fear of having a repeat attack. Persistent and debilitating panic attacks may be indicative of panic disorder, a chronic anxiety condition.

People with panic disorder often avoid situations that could trigger an attack and may not even leave the house, feeling safe only within its confines.

When to see a doctor
If you notice symptoms of a panic attack, you should seek medical attention immediately. Without treatment, panic attacks can become more frequent and more severe. It's also important to rule out other serious conditions, such as a heart attack.

Causes and risk factors
The exact causes of panic attacks are unknown, but possible factors include:

heredity;
stress;
changes in brain function.
Some research suggests that panic attacks are a natural response to stress and danger. For example, when encountering a bear, the body reacts instinctively: heart rate increases, shortness of breath occurs - so the body prepares to fight or flee. A similar reaction occurs in a panic attack, although there is no obvious threat.

Panic disorder symptoms often appear in late adolescence or early adulthood. Women are more susceptible to panic attacks than men. Risk factors include:

A family history of panic attacks or panic disorder;
severe stress;
death or serious illness of a loved one;
major life changes, such as the birth of a child;
Experiencing physical or sexual abuse as a child;
traumatic situations, such as an accident or rape.
Treatment and prevention
It is important to seek help in a timely manner because panic attacks are treatable. Therapy and medication can significantly improve quality of life and help manage panic attacks.