If you’re someone who has ever suffered from random or specifically triggered episodes of intense fear or anxiety, it’s highly possible that they were actually panic attacks. These “episodes” or anxiety attacks are usually a direct result of a panic disorder. Those suffering from panic disorder generally experience a series of panic or anxiety attacks that usually last anywhere between a few minutes to a few hours. However, you should know that panic disorder is in no way uncommon; in fact, over a million people in the
U.S. suffer from anxiety-related problems.
As a result, it’s important to know some of the causes and be able to recognize the symptoms that are typically associated with anxiety and panic attacks. Fortunately, treatment options are available for most people who suffer from panic disorder. Additionally, there are also certain ways in which you can effectively manage anxiety-related attacks and prevent them from happening over the course of your life.
Causes of Anxiety Attacks
Anxiety and panic attacks can typically be triggered by a number of different factors. For example, it’s usually common for people to have anxiety over transitional changes in life, such as graduating from school, switching jobs or having a baby. Causes of anxiety attacks can also be attributed to certain medication you may be taking.
Unexpected panic attacks usually occur randomly, while expected panic attacks result from specific impending situations, such as fear of public speaking or pre-performance jitters. It has also been argued that this condition can be genetic, with members of the same family suffering from panic and anxiety attacks.
Identifying Anxiety Attack Symptoms
In most cases, many people can experience the feelings of having an anxiety attack, but they’re simply not sure that’s what it is. The truth is that it can often be difficult to know for certain, which is precisely why it helps to be able to recognize some of the common symptoms related to anxiety and panic attacks. The following symptoms can often be indications of panic attacks:
- Shortness of breath
- Feeling faint
- Rapid heartbeat
- Feeling like you’re going to die
- Loss of control
One of the most common anxiety attack symptoms is becoming short of breath. While it can be a pretty frightening situation, it’s important to remember that treatment is available. Those suffering from an anxiety attack can also experience feelings of faintness. Feeling faint and lightheaded during panic attacks can be especially prevalent when you’re among large crowds.
Another common symptom associated with panic attacks is a rapid pounding heartbeat. This particular symptom can almost make you feel like you’re having a heart attack, but the actual cause is really anxiety. In extreme cases of anxiety and panic attacks, it’s not unusual to feel as if you’re about to die. This anxiety-related symptom is perhaps the worst and most difficult for individuals to deal with. In addition to all of the anxiety symptoms mentioned above, the feeling of loosing complete control of your entire body is also related to panic attacks.
Panic Disorder Treatment
The good news about anxiety attacks is that they can be treated and even prevented. Treatment options for panic attacks typically involve therapy and medication. Most of the time, medication for anxiety and panic attacks can include antidepressants. However it’s important to keep in mind that medication should always be prescribed by a health professional and therapy should always be administered by a licensed therapist. Additionally, preventing panic attacks is also possible through certain relaxation and stress-relieving techniques, such as exercise and meditation.
So if you’re someone who has been suffering in silence, it’s time to take some action because anxiety and panic attacks do not have to be a part of your life any longer. Knowing the causes of anxiety and being able to accurately identify the symptoms can help you to determine the best treatment and prevention options for your personal situation.