Many people are accustomed to periods of high stress at different points in their lives, but not everyone experiences panic attacks. While some people may say they are having a panic attack during these times, they most likely aren’t actually having one and it’s important to realize that these episodes can happen to anyone at anytime.

 

Panic attacks are described as being an overwhelming feeling of dread or terror that come on suddenly and with no warning. Sufferers often have a fear of dying or even a fear of going crazy during the attack and their minds race uncontrollably. It can be quite scary but there’s nothing medically wrong that is going to hurt them and the attack normally only lasts for 5 to 10 minutes.

 

Along with a feeling of dread that typically goes with a panic attack, there are also physical symptoms like a racing heartbeat, chest pain, shaking, numbness, and dizziness. A person who is not used to getting panic attacks will often confuse the feelings that they are experiencing with an actual medical emergency. For this reason, people that are experiencing them for one of the first times will often head to the emergency room or medical provider.

 

The panic attack doesn’t necessarily have to have anything to do with the events surrounding the person’s life, but intense stress and life events could contribute to the panic attack. Other sources of a panic attack could be overconsumption of alcohol or caffeine, sleep deprivation, hormonal imbalances, and drug use. The attacks can come on suddenly and can be difficult to predict when they will happen.

 

If you have suffered from multiple panic attacks, it’s important to remember that there are many treatment options available. It also might be a good idea to seek out medical attention to determine whether you have a panic disorder.

 

There are certain changes one can make to their lifestyle in order to lessen the chances of getting a panic attack, such as limiting caffeine, drugs, and alcohol use, as well as making sure to get enough sleep each night.

 

With the help of a psychologist, panic attack sufferers have been able to take control of their feelings of terror and know what to do when a panic attack happens to them.