A panic attack is a sudden, uncontrollable feeling of fear. It is a condition in which increased anxiety causes severe physical reactions in the absence of real danger or apparent cause.
Counseling psychologist Lois Nakibuka says panic attacks aren’t dangerous, but they can be terrifying and can lead to loss of control, heart attack, and even death. They can affect a person’s quality of life.
Many people have only one or two panic attacks in their lifetime, but some people have multiple attacks, depending on the severity of their symptoms, and the problem goes away once the stressful situation is over.
Most panic attacks usually last 5 to 20 minutes and can develop very quickly. Symptoms are usually the worst within the first 10 minutes of her.
Panic attacks can begin without warning and can occur at any time, with symptoms peaking within minutes. Everyone reacts differently to these situations, but signs and symptoms may include a rapid heart rate, shortness of breath or tightness in the throat, sweating, shivering or shivering, a sense of imminent danger, loss of control or fear of death. , and chills. and nausea.
Other symptoms include abdominal pain, chest pain, headache, dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting, numbness or tingling, unreality or disorientation.
Anyone can have a panic attack at any time, but panic disorder symptoms often begin in late teens or early adulthood and affect more women than men. However, some people are vulnerable and susceptible.
Stressful situations such as unemployment, divorce, major life stresses (such as the death of a loved one or serious illness), a history of childhood physical or sexual abuse, alcohol and substance abuse, and traumatic events such as sexual assault People experiencing a panic attack or a serious accident or, in some cases, a family history of panic disorder can trigger a panic attack.
How to deal with panic attacks
It’s possible to be aware that you’re having a panic attack, says Nakibuka, and it’s important not to let the fear of a panic attack dominate you.
“Self-positive talk is a great therapy to help you get out of a panic attack. Tell yourself that what you’re going through isn’t the worst thing that can happen. Tell yourself, ‘I’m not going to die,’ she says.
She also warns against facing panic head-on instead of looking for distractions. If possible, continue what she was doing until her symptoms subside.
“Give yourself a chance to discover that nothing will happen if you just stay there and face your fears,” Nakibuka added.
If you have friends or relatives with you, let them know what you are going through. The reassurance that nothing will happen helps the symptoms subside quickly. You can also sit down, take a deep breath, and drink water to calm your mind.
You may have panic disorder, especially if you often feel stressed or anxious about when your next panic attack will occur.
It is important to note that people with panic disorder usually avoid situations that can trigger a panic attack and avoid public places. Panic attacks and panic disorders do not have a quick fix, so at this point you should seek medical help from a counselor who can handle your situation or refer you to a psychiatrist for further management. there is.
People also need help from a doctor if panic attacks interfere with their daily activities at school, home, or work, or if they feel guilty about hurting others after an attack. The first step in managing a panic attack or panic disorder is admitting that you need help.
Once treatment is started, it is important to adhere to the treatment plan prescribed by your healthcare provider to prevent panic attacks from recurring or worsening.
If left untreated, symptoms become worse and more frequent. Regular physical activity also plays an important role in protecting yourself from anxiety and panic attacks.
It can lead to depression, phobias, increased risk of suicide or suicidal thoughts, alcohol and substance abuse, and problems at work or school.
Can panic attacks be treated?
Yes, treatment can reduce the intensity and frequency of panic attacks and panic disorders.
● Cognitive behavioral therapy
This is usually the first treatment offered for panic attacks and panic disorders. Cognitive-behavioral therapy involves talking to a psychologist or counselor about your experiences and learning how to react differently to situations. This will teach you how to better deal with your emotions and overcome your fear of situations you might have avoided because of a panic attack.
Drug therapy can help relieve symptoms associated with panic attacks and depression. There are many options, but if one drug doesn’t work, your doctor may switch to another. All medicines have a risk of side effects, so talk to your doctor about the best choice for your situation.
Source: www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org
