Panic Attack Symptoms
Although panic attacks have never knowingly caused serious physical harm to an individual, they are (to those who suffer from them) serious enough to cause immense fear and distress.
What causes a panic attack is still unclear but it is safe to say that it is ‘fear of the fear’ that triggers an attack and this can be a vicious circle because the victim is continually fearful that another attack will occur at any time.
Although the exact cause of an attack cannot be pinpointed, panic attack symptoms that are often experienced by the individual are a little easier to detect and diagnose.
If you think you may have suffered a panic attack in the past or that you are suffering from them currently, you will no doubt be able to relate to some of the following panic attack symptoms;
Hyperventilation – The scientific explanation of this symptom is ‘excessive ventilation of the lungs’ but in simple terms hyperventilation is the state of breathing faster and deeper than is necessary causing the frightening sensation of not been able to ‘get your breath’
Stomach Knot – This is a sense and not a physical symptom, people who experience this symptom are often fearful that something bad is going to happen – this is also related to the feeling that your stomach is ‘flipping’ and also the need to use the toilet.
Chest Pains – Many people who suffer chest pains during a panic attack very often assume they are having a heart attack and fear the worst – obvioulsy chest pains should always be taken seriously and if in doubt medical assistance should be sought immediately.
Heartburn – This is also a common panic attack symptom and not be be confused with chest pains, it is usually caused by excessive stomach acids reaching the osephegus causing a ‘burning’ sensation
Excessive Sweating – Perspiration is a normal bodily function but if it becomes apparent that you are visibly ‘sweating’ on a regular basis then it could be a panic attack symptom particularly if it coincides with any other symptoms, such as hyperventilation or dizziness.
Dizziness – Although fainting is very rare, sometimes a panic attack can make the victim feel like they are going to ‘pass out’ and feel extremely nauseus – this is another common panic attack symptom but caution should always be observed and medical attention may be required if this symptom persists.
Derealisation – Although not as common as some of the other panic attack symptoms, the feeling of not being in the ‘real world’ is known complaint of panic attacks sufferers.
Bladder & Bowel Urges – Although this cannot be totally associated with a panic attack, quite often someone who is suffering from an attack may feel the urge to empty their bladder or bowel very quickly – again medical assistance should be sought if this continues.
Irrational Thoughts – This symptom is not common by any means but it can make the sufferer feel like they are going ‘crazy’ or are about to do something bad – if this symptom becomes a regular occurance then a visit to your GP (doctor) is advised as medication may be required.
There are no ‘hard and fast’ rules with regard to panic attack symptoms, some sufferers have the same symptoms everytime they have an attack – other people may have different symptoms each time they have an attack.
As stated at the beginning of this article, panic attacks do not cause physical harm but they can (and do) adversely affect the quality of life, however, quite often anxiety and panic attacks can be overcome by the individual themselves - there are many methods available that will help stop panic attacks and ease panic attacks symptoms, however, in some circumstances medication is required to stabilise the disorder.
