PANIC ATTACKS
Many people have had at least one panic attack in their lifetime.
Panic attacks can occur “out of the blue” or when a person anticipates, or is exposed to, a particular trigger. Among the many contexts where panic attacks can occur are driving, sleeping, exercising, working, studying, or spending time with loved ones. Symptoms of a panic attack can resemble other medical issues such as a heart or lung condition, contributing to some people seeking emergency medical attention in response to an episode.
Panic attacks include some of the following symptoms:
- Fear of dying
- Fear of losing control or “going crazy”
- Pounding or racing heart
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Shortness of breath or feeling of choking
- Sweating
- Trembling or shaking
- Chills or hot flashes
- Nausea or abdominal pain
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Numbness or tingling
- Feeling detached from self or surroundings
The symptoms of a panic attack usually peak after 10 minutes, and then begin to gradually subside. Following an attack, an individual may feel drained, exhausted, worried, and/or stressed.
Panic attack vs. panic disorder.
Panic attacks and panic disorder share many of the same emotional and physical symptoms. People who struggle with panic disorder have repeated panic attacks and often worry about having a future attack. To prevent this from happening, situations and places where previous panic attacks have occurred are usually avoided or met with dread. The experience of panic attacks does not always lead to the onset of panic disorder. Factors that are linked with an increased risk of developing panic attacks and panic disorder include: having an anxiety disorder, a family history of panic attacks or panic disorder, experiencing a major life event or trauma, and smoking or excessive caffeine use.
Panic attacks and panic disorder are serious and need to be treated.
Regardless of the cause, panic attacks and panic disorder can be successfully treated. When left untreated, both issues can severely impact a person’s quality of life.
For example, some people who have panic attacks go on the experience panic disorder, and both issues are related to issues such as:
- Development of specific phobias
- Avoidance of social situations
- Relationship struggles
- Problems related to work and school
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Increased risk of suicide or suicidal thoughts
- Substance use issues
- Long-term health complications
- Frequent medical care for health concerns
Counseling and therapy at Wellness Grove…
Our in-person (outpatient) counseling services are offered in Canton OH (near Akron, North Canton, and Massillon). We also offer telemental health sessions to all Ohio residents.
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