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Why the Symptoms of a Panic Attack Vary From Those of a Panic Disorder
February 20th, 2010 by admin
While it is perfectly natural to experience some level of fear about an upcoming event, like a big test or presentation, the symptoms of a panic attack should not be confused with the symptoms of fear and anxiety in a specific situation. Unlike anxiety, a panic attack is a specific episode where you experience an intense level of panic and terror with some of the most common symptoms being the following:
A pounding or fast heartbeat Feeling hot, sweating for no reason, or experiencing body chills in a warm room Feeling faint, dizzy or weak Experiencing a numbing or tingling of hands Experiencing chest pain or feeling like you are being smothered. This symptom is why panic attacks are commonly lead people to believe they may be having a heart attack Experiencing a sense of unreality Experiencing a fear of imminent disaster or loss of control Having a fear of dying
Unlike anxiety, a panic attack can occur suddenly and without warning. If you have experienced the symptoms of a panic attack then you probably know that these attacks can happen at any time and usually do not need a cause. While most attacks may only last for a few minutes, some can last for up to 10 minutes and in extreme cases they can last as long as an hour which while uncommon.
The symptoms of a panic attack can be present in people of any age, including children, adults, the elderly, and most commonly being present in young adults. It is also believed that these attacks will affect up to 12% Australians at some point in their lives, and that the symptoms of a panic attack are twice as likely to be seen in women as in men. While it may be easy to assume that the symptoms you are experiencing are those of a panic attack, you need to keep in mind that the symptoms, while similar, can actually be those of an illness. An attack can be caused by the physiological effects of a drug addiction or by a non-psychological medical condition, such as hyperthyroidism. It is in these cases that the symptoms of a panic attack would not be classified in the same way.
If treatment for panic attacks is not received, these attacks can morph into what is commonly known as a panic disorder. Unlike panic attacks, a panic disorder commonly includes a strong sense of anxiety between attacks since the sufferer fears when their next attack may occur. Sufferers may also develop a form of phobia or even generalized agoraphobia if the root cause of the panic attacks is not addressed. Many develop phobias or fears of being placed back in the situation or location where the first attack occurred, and is commonly why those who suffer from some form of panic disorder will choose to avoid certain locations or events. If some form of treatment for panic disorder is not received, the sufferer could potentially never leave their home, for fear that another attack may be around the corner.
copyright by Patricia Adams