
A panic attack is an episode of intense fear with an abrupt onset, lasting from several minutes to up to an hour. It has many mental and physical symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea, dizziness, chest pain and a sense of pending doom. These symptoms may cause significant worry in people as they may mimic signs of medical problems such as heart issues. However, panic attacks can occur when there isn't a real danger or apparent cause.
Panic attacks aren't life-threatening, but they can be frightening for the person experiencing the attack and their loved ones. These attacks can affect your quality of life, especially if you have multiple or unexpected panic attacks.
A panic attack usually begins suddenly and without warning. Typically, symptoms peak in minutes, and you may feel tired and worn out after it subsides. Panic attacks can cause chest pain and breathing problems that lead some people to seek medical care.
In most cases, a single panic attack episode does not require emergency medical care. However, it's important to discuss your symptoms with your health care team. They will evaluate you for medical disorders that may contribute to your symptoms, such as cardiac arrhythmia, respiratory diseases, pulmonary emboli, thyroid disorders, adrenal tumors or medication side effects.
A person with ongoing, unexpected panic attacks who spends time worrying about another panic attack may have a panic disorder. People with panic disorders may be afraid of experiencing more panic attacks and live in a constant state of fear that affects the quality of their lives. Often, they change their behaviors and habits so much that it interferes with daily activities. This could result in the person missing social events, school or work.
People with panic disorder have panic attacks with mental and physical symptoms. The attacks happen without warning and can last several minutes to an hour.
No. There is no test, but your health care team can determine if you have panic disorder or another condition based on your symptoms. You may have a complete physical exam, blood test or psychological evaluation to discuss your symptoms, fears, stress and family history.
Yes, treatment can reduce the intensity and frequency of panic attacks and panic disorder.
You don't need to suffer alone or avoid aspects of life because of panic attacks. Talk with your health care team about your symptoms and about treatment options that can make a difference.
Brian Hesler, M.D., is a psychiatrist in Psychiatry & Psychology in Albert Lea, Minnesota.
This article also appears on the Mayo Clinic Health System blog.
As a pulmonologist and genomic scientist, Victor Ortega, M.D., Ph.D., is leading a charge to breathe new life into precision medicine advancements. His mission is rooted ...
If you have asthma, does it always seem worse in September? You're not alone. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, the third ...
The types of cancer that occur in children often are different from those in adults. Childhood cancers usually are not linked to lifestyle or environmental ...