Panic Attacks

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Panic attacks are periods of intense fear or discomfort that arise suddenly and unexpectedly and in the absence of any external danger or threat. They often take place when you are engaged in a perfectly normal activity such as travelling on a bus or doing the shopping.

Panic attacks can happen to people who are already experiencing recognisable symptoms of anxiety as well as to those who, up till then, had not considered that they were particularly anxious. Whatever the situation, panic attacks can be very distressing and frightening, and many people worry that they may be due to a serious physical illness or that they are 'going out of their mind'.



what are the symptoms?
The physical sensations you experience may include:

• * difficulties in breathing (hyperventilation)
  * dizziness, faintness, trembling or shaking
  * sweating (particularly on the palms of the hands), nausea or abdominal upset
  * palpitations or accelerated heart rate
  * chest pain or discomfort or choking sensations
  * numbness or tingling sensations in hands or feet, flushes or chills.

You may also experience overwhelming feelings such as:

• * a sense of unreality – as though either you yourself are not real or your surroundings are not real
  * a feeling of going mad or losing control
  * a fear that you might die.

A healthy lifestyle will make it easier for you to cope with panic attacks.

• * Make sure you get regular exercise. Exercise is a good way of helping you to feel less anxious or depressed and giving you more energy to cope.
  * Eat regular, well-balanced meals. Missing meals or having an inadequate diet can increase anxiety and depression and reduce energy levels.
  * Too much caffeine can contribute to panic attacks. Cut out or cut down your intake.
  * Drinking too much alcohol or taking illicit drugs will make it harder for you to cope with panic attacks.

Panic attacks usually last for 5-20 minutes but can continue for up to an hour.


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