Panic attack, or panic disorder, is one type of anxiety disorder that affects many individuals. Like other mental health disorders, the stigma associated with panic attack often inhibits individuals from seeking the support and treatment they need.
What is a panic attack?
Everyone experiences feelings of anxiety and panic at certain times. It is a natural response to stressful or dangerous situations. Individuals with panic attacks have feelings of anxiety. Stress and panic occur regularly and at any time, often for no apparent reason. A panic attack is when your body experiences a rush of intense mental and physical symptoms. It can come on very quickly and for no apparent reason. A panic attack can be very frightening and distressing. A panic attack can happen anywhere, at any time. You may feel terrified and overwhelmed, even though you are not in any danger. An attack usually passes in 5-10 minutes, but it can linger for hours. It can feel like you are having a heart attack or a stroke.
What causes a panic attack?
It is not known what causes panic attacks, or panic disorder, but these factors may play a role:
• Genetics
• Major stress
• Temperament that is more sensitive to stress or prone to negative emotions
• Certain changes in the way parts of your brain function
What are some symptoms of a panic attack?
Signs and symptoms of a panic attack might vary from one individual to another, but the following are some common signs and symptoms:
• Pounding or fast heartbeat
• Sweating
• Trembling or shaking
• Shortness of breath or a feeling of being smothered
• A choking feeling
• Chest pain
• Nausea or stomach pains
• Feeling dizzy or faint
• Chills or hot flashes
• Numbness or tingling in the body
• Feeling unreal or detached
• A fear of losing control or going crazy
• A fear of dying
Treatment
Treatment can help reduce the intensity and frequency of your panic attacks and improve your function in daily life. The main treatment options are psychotherapy and medications. One or both types of treatment may be recommended, depending on your preference, your history, the severity of your panic disorder – and whether you have access to therapists who have special training in treating panic disorders.
Lifestyle changes
If you have symptoms and signs of a panic disorder always seek medical attention. Some lifestyle changes might also help you to mange your symptoms. The following might prove beneficial:
• Stick to your treatment plan. Facing your fears can be difficult, but treatment can help you feel like you are not a hostage in your own home.
• Avoid caffeine, alcohol, smoking and recreational drugs. All of these can trigger or worsen panic attacks.
• Practice stress management and relaxation techniques. You might do several activities e.g. yoga, deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation.
• Get physically active. Aerobic activity may have a calming effect on your mood.
• Get sufficient sleep. Get enough sleep so that you do not feel drowsy during the day.
Conclusion
Panic attacks, or panic disorder, is a mental illness but, like other mental illness, individuals are often scared to seek professional help. In many countries, including Anguilla, the stereotypes depicting people with mental illness as being dangerous, unpredictable, and generally incompetent, often discourage individuals from speaking candidly about their mental health. The first step in helping your loved one who is suffering from panic attacks is acknowledging that he or she has it. Professional help is available in Anguilla for individuals with panic attacks or panic disorder.
Ask Your Doctor is a health education column and is not a substitute for medical advice from your physician. The reader should consult his or her physician for specific information concerning specific medical conditions. While all reasonable efforts have been made to ensure that all information presented is accurate, as research and development in the medical field are ongoing, it is possible that new findings may supersede some data presented.
Dr Brett Hodge MB BS DGO MRCOG is an Obstetrician/Gynaecologist and Family Doctor who has over thirty-five years in clinical practice. Dr Hodge has a medical practice in The Johnson Building in The Valley (Tel: 264 4975828).
