Panic attacks are defined as short intense periods of strong, uncontrollable anxiety that is accompanied by severe physical symptoms of discomfort. During a panic attack, an individual may feel as if they are losing control physically and mentally. They may even think they are having a heart attack or dying. People may feel the need to try to escape a situation or seek medical assistance. Panic attacks can be triggered by a situation (such as a feared social situation) or can be triggered by something subconsciously.
When panic attacks reoccur randomly without being triggered by a known specific event this is often characterized as Panic Disorder. In many instances panic attacks occur within the context of another type of disorder and their origin can be traced to specific situations, events, or fears. Adults may experience increased frequency of panic attacks during periods of high stress.

 

Signs and symptoms may include:

• Increased heart rate or heart palpitations

• Difficulty breathing

• Shaking

• Sweating and hot flashes

• Nausea or vomiting

• Feeling of losing control, needing to escape, dying

• Dizziness, feeling faint, fear of passing out