Symptoms Of Panic Attacks

Common Symptoms Of A Panic Attack

The panic itself is the main symptom of a panic attack, however there are many other symptoms associated with this condition.  If the attack is caused by another reason such as a medical ailment or a life threatening event that happened before it came on, it is likely that you are not suffering panic disorder.  However, if these two are absent then the possibility that you are suffering from panic disorder is quite high.  Symptoms of a panic attack happen suddenly and usually will seem unprovoked.  They are quite unexpected and disabling.

Agoraphobia And Symptoms Of A Panic Attack

Most people who experience the symptoms of a panic attack may develop illogical fears about the place in which it happened, leading to the avoidance of such situations.  This can severely impact one's life especially if they associate the disorder with leaving the house or driving.  If these associations continue the person may develop agoraphobia.  Because of this, panic disorder is divided into two: That which comes with agoraphobia and that which is without agoraphobia.

Most Common Symptoms Of Panic Attacks

When one is having a panic attack there is an intense feeling of fear that quickly reaches its peak.  This feeling may dissipate quickly but the symptoms of the panic attack may last for 30 minutes or even several hours.  These symptoms include a feeling of being short of breath, a feeling of chocking and a pounding heart.  This may be accompanied by hot flashes or chills as well as sweating.  Trembling, dizziness, feeling faint and a feeling of de-realization may also be experienced.

It is common for a person experiencing the symptoms of a panic attack to feel like they are going crazy or losing control.  They may also experience abdominal problems, nausea, tingling and numbness as well as chest pain and a fear of death.  There is usually a need to escape and a fear of doing something that may be embarrassing.  Even though it feels like the body is about to fail, the truth is that it is trying to protect itself from whatever harm may be coming.

The symptoms of a panic attack can also be experienced during sleep.  This is commonly referred to as nocturnal panic attacks.  About 40 to 70 percent of people who suffer from panic attacks during the day may also experience them while sleeping.  They tend to suddenly wake the sleeper who finds herself in the throws of an attack.  Even though the attacks can be disabling, there are treatments that can make life better for the sufferer.