Panic Attacks

Panic Attacks affect 2.7% of the population, 6 million Americans. Women are twice as likely than men to experience panic attacks. They frequently begin in late adolescence or early adulthood.

Normal panic occurs as gut wrenching fear or terror when suddenly faced with threatening or dangerous situations. Panic disorders occur when the situation is not life threatening but the mind and body react as if it was such a situation. Panic attacks can occur at any time, even in sleep.

Symptoms may include:
  • Fear of losing control, going crazy or dying
  • Pounding heart, palpations of the heart
  • Increased heart rate
  • Shortness or breath, rapid breathing, feelings of choking
  • Sweating, trembling, shaking sensations
  • Lightheadedness, dizziness, numbness, tingling sensations
  • Chest pain or discomfort
  • Nausea, abdominal distress, diarrhea
  • Derealization (feeling detached from self)
  • Depersonalization (feeling detached from self)
  • Chills, hot and cold flashes

Causal Factors:
Biologic, Genetic, Sociologic and/or Situational factors.

Treatment Options:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Medication, and/or Anxiety Management Techniques.