Common Panic Attack Symptoms
For anyone who’s ever had a panic attack you know what it is and how it feels. They know the terror of the heart racing in their chest, and the other symptoms, which combined leave them concerned for their life. They may have been in to the doctor and told it is “all in your head” – and they’ve worried that it truly was all in their head and they are losing their mind.
Panic attacks may be symptoms of an anxiety disorder. (SEE OUR ARTICLES ON ANXIETY) These attacks are a serious health problem in the U.S. At least 1.7% of adult Americans, or about 3 million people, will have panic attacks at some time in their lives, with the peak age at which people have their first panic attack (onset) being 15 to 19 years.
What Are The Symptoms Of An panic Attack?
First, there are both physical and mental symptoms of an panic attack. Both can be debilitating. They can last from only a few seconds to a half hour or longer. They can be mild, or so intense that a trip to the emergency room may be required.
The physical symptoms range from;
* racing or pounding heartbeat (palpitations);
* chest pains;
* stomach upset;
* dizziness, light headedness, nausea;
* difficulty breathing, a sense of feeling smothered;
* tingling or numbness in the hands;
* hot flashes or chills;
The mental symptoms can be just as hard to deal with;
* dreamlike sensations or perceptual distortions;
* terror: a sense that something unimaginably horrible is about to occur and one is powerless to prevent it;
* a need to escape;
* fear of losing control and doing something embarrassing; and
* fear of dying
What Causes Panic Attacks?
Panic attacks can be caused by several things. First, heredity or genetics plays a part. If you have relatives or ancestors who have suffered from panic attacks, you are more likely to have them also. But those without such connections can also have them.
The way in which one is raised can influence a propensity to have a panic attack. Studies show that those who are raised with a fearful outlook on life and their surroundings are more likely to have this disorder, as are those who have a very passive communication style.
Other physical conditions can also have an impact. Those have obsessive compulsive disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, hyperthyroidism, hypoglycemia, a vitamin B deficiency, or even labyrinthitis can cause panic or panic attacks.
Panic attacks can also be caused by chemicals introduced into the body. These include “heavy duty” drugs, like Ritalin, anti-depressants, and all SSRI drugs, but also nicotine, alcohol, and even caffeine.
Other issues can also cause a panic attack. Things like phobias, previous panic attacks, or a significant loss or life change (like the death of a spouse) can cause an attack to occur.