Panic attacks: A brief overview

Panic attacks are acute bouts of overpowering fear and anxiety that can occur suddenly. These can be exceedingly distressing and have a considerable impact on a person's daily life, making routine tasks, socialising, and even leaving the house difficult.

This article will go into greater detail about the symptoms, causes, and treatments of panic attacks.

Panic attack symptoms

Panic attacks are defined by a sudden onset of acute fear and anxiety. The following are examples of physical and emotional symptoms:

• quick heartbeat
• sweating, trembling or shivering
• shortness of breath or feeling as if you can't catch your breath
• chest pain or discomfort
• nausea or stomach problems
• feeling dizzy or lightheaded
• feeling distant from reality or as if you're losing control
• fear of death or a heart attack

These feelings can become so acute during a panic attack that they might cause a sense of impending doom or a dread of losing control. Panic episodes can last anywhere from a few minutes to an hour and might occur intermittently or in clusters over days or weeks.

Causes of panic attacks

Although the specific aetiology of panic attacks is unknown, research suggests that a mix of genetic, environmental, and psychological variables may play a role in their development.

Genetic variables

Research has revealed that panic disorder can run in families, implying that the disorder may have a hereditary component. No single gene, however, has been identified as the sole cause of panic attacks.

Environmental aspects

Panic attacks can be triggered by environmental stresses such as catastrophic experiences, severe life changes, or chronic stress. Caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol, among other substances, can cause panic attacks in some people.

Psychological factors

Anxiety, depression, or phobias are examples of psychological conditions that can raise the likelihood of having a panic attack. Those who are prone to negative self-talk or have a history of trauma may also be more vulnerable to panic attacks.

Treatment for panic attacks

Panic attacks, thankfully, are treatable. Medication, therapy, and lifestyle modifications may all be used in treatment.

Medication

Many drugs are available to treat panic attacks, including:

• Antidepressants: selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) can help lessen the frequency and severity of panic attacks.
• Benzodiazepines: these sedatives can provide quick relief during a panic attack, but they are not usually used for long-term treatment due to the risk of dependence and abuse.

Therapy

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a kind of psychotherapy that is frequently used to treat panic episodes. CBT focuses on recognising and modifying negative thinking patterns and beliefs that cause anxiety and panic attacks. It also teaches people coping methods like relaxation techniques and breathing exercises to help them control panic attacks when they happen.

Another sort of therapy that is often used to treat panic episodes is exposure therapy. Individuals are gradually exposed to their anxieties and anxiety triggers in a secure and controlled atmosphere as part of exposure treatment. This exposure can help desensitise people to their concerns and lower the severity of panic episodes over time.

Lifestyle changes

Lifestyle adjustments can also assist to minimise the frequency and severity of panic episodes. Examples include:

• Using stress-reduction strategies such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises to reduce stress.
• Avoiding stimulants such as coffee, nicotine, and alcohol, which can cause panic attacks.
• Regular physical activity can help reduce anxiety and enhance overall mental health.
• Consuming a nutritious and well-balanced diet.

Finally, panic attacks are a frequent and manageable mental health disorder that can be tremendously upsetting for those who suffer from them. While no one knows what causes panic attacks, they can be triggered by a mix of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Panic attacks can be treated with CBT, medication, and lifestyle changes. If you or someone you love is having panic attacks, it is critical that you seek professional care. It is possible to manage and overcome panic attacks and live a full and healthy life with the correct therapy and support.