Signs and Symptoms of Panic Attacks


by Paul Dylan - Date: 2006-12-05 - Word Count: 473 Share This!

A panic attack can certainly be frightening, especially considering some of the serious signs and symptoms of panic attacks. These symptoms can be so serious that in some cases the individual may feel as though they are dying, going crazy or having a heart attack. Learning to recognize these signs and symptoms is one of the first steps you can take toward overcoming panic attacks.

A panic attack is actually a symptom in and of itself of a medical disorder known as Panic Anxiety Disorder. There are numerous signs and symptoms that are commonly associated with panic attacks which may or may not necessarily indicate the presence of an attack. They could be results of another cause that is not at all related to a panic attack. For example, in some cases a medical ailment could produce results that are similar to the signs and symptoms of a panic attack. Another example would be a life threatening experience; which may or may not come before a panic attack. If these two causes are not present, the problem could well be Panic Disorder.

Typically, panic attacks only last a short time and reach their maximum intensity within a minute or so of beginning. Of course, for the person experiencing the attack, this can feel like forever. The signs and symptoms then commonly diminish over a period of about half an hour, although it could take several hours before they completely go away.

Panic attacks can occur as a single isolated incidence, although they may also occur more frequently. Some individuals suffer from them several times per month. The severity of the signs and symptoms of the panic may also vary depending on the individual.

A few of the symptoms associated with a panic attack include the following:

Difficulty breathingFeeling as though you can't get enough airRacing heartbeatFeeling dizzy, lightheadedExperiencing a feeling of dread,NauseaTrembling, shaking or sweatingFeeling nervousFeeling extremely stressedExperiencing a sense of paralyzing fearHot flashesSudden chillsChoking sensationChest painsTingling in the fingers or toesA fear that you are dying or going crazyOf course, it must be noted that the presence of one or two of these symptoms on their own does not necessarily indicate the presence of a panic attack or Panic Disorder. There could be a perfectly logical explanation for the symptoms. The presence of several symptoms; however, could indicate there is a problem that may be associated with a panic attack.

Keep in mind that the signs and symptoms related to panic attacks can vary. During one panic attack you might experience one set of symptoms and another set during a different attack. The severity of the symptoms could differ as well as the length of time for which you feel the impact of the symptoms following an attack. It is not uncommon at all to feel tired and fatigued due to the signs and symptoms of panic attacks.


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