Understanding Panic Attacks and Panic Disorders
Panic attacks are marked by sudden bouts of intense fear that trigger extreme physical reactions with no apparent cause or danger. A panic attack can be extremely frightening. When panic attacks happen, you may sense that you're ultimately losing control, experiencing a sudden heart attack, or even dying. However, many people have just one or two panic attacks in their life, and the issue just goes away because maybe their stressful circumstances have ended.
On the other hand, if you encounter spontaneous recurrent panic attacks and spend ample time in a state of dread of experiencing another one, you might have an illness known as panic disorder. Panic attacks are often intensely frightening and seriously impact the quality of your life, though the episode alone is not life-threatening. It is crucial to keep in mind that there are highly effective treatments for panic disorder. Reach out for mental health therapy in Winter Park and start treatment to enhance the condition and boost your overall well-being.
Symptoms
Panic attacks typically happen very abruptly and come on with no notice. These episodes can occur anytime, like when you're fast asleep, in the mall, in the midst of an important business meeting, or cruising in your car. You might have regular panic attacks, or they may strike periodically. Panic attacks have numerous variations, but symptoms and indications typically peak within a few moments. You might be worn out and exhausted after a panic attack ends. These attacks usually include one or more of these signs and symptoms:
- Feeling detached or unreal
- Sensing impending threats or doom
- Numbness or tingling sensation
- Apprehension of dying or losing of control.
- Feeling faint, lightheaded, or dizzy
- Rapid, pounding heartbeat
- Headache
- Intense sweating
- Chest pains
- Trembling or shaking
- Stomach cramps
- The feeling of a tight throat or shortness of breath
- Queasiness, chills, and hot flashes
One of the most sinister elements of a panic attack is the intense dread that you will encounter another. Unfortunately, many sufferers often worry about experiencing panic attacks so much they avoid certain situations where they may have a panic attack.
Causes
The precise cause of a panic disorder or panic attacks is unidentified, but these factors might have an impact:
- Distinct changes in brain function
- A disposition that is highly susceptible to negative feelings or stress
- Significant stress
- Genetics
Initially, panic attacks may suddenly come on without warning, but distinct situations usually initiate them as time progresses. Some analysis infers that an individual's natural fight or flight reaction to danger activates amid a panic attack. For instance, your body instinctively responds to a tiger coming toward you. As a result, your breath and heart rate increases significantly as your body prepares for life-threatening circumstances. Many similar bodily responses happen amid a panic attack, but it is unknown why the attacks transpire when no obvious dangers exist.
