Nocturnal Panic Attacks

Panic attacks occur in approximately one-third of the population. These episodes are marked by periods of extreme anxiety that last for approximately two to ten minutes each. Panic attacks are thought to be caused by a variety of different factors, including external stressors, lifestyle, and genetics. These episodes can take place at various times throughout the day without warning, and even happen at night.

These nighttime panic attacks are also known as nocturnal panic attacks. Nocturnal panic attacks represent around ten percent of the panic attacks experienced by sufferers of this condition. There are many different reasons why nocturnal panic attacks might occur, but nightmares aren't usually one of them. Documented records of nocturnal panic attacks have shown that these episodes happen during the early phases of sleep rather than during the times when dreams occur.

Nocturnal panic attacks are basically the same as panic attacks that happen during the day. Rapid heartbeat, dizziness, shortness of breath, sweating, hot flashes, chills, tingling in hands and feet, and feelings of fear or a loss of control are all symptoms that are common to both day and night panic attacks. However, nocturnal panic attacks come with their own set of problems. The sufferer sometimes becomes fearful of going to sleep because they associate sleeping with having panic attacks. This often leads to insomnia, which can trigger even more panic attacks. It's a vicious cycle that may never end without the proper treatment.

If you're suffering from nocturnal panic attacks, seek professional help. Once your doctor reaches a proper diagnosis, you'll be informed of the various treatment options available to you. Sometimes panic attacks, whether they occur at night or during the day, will need to be treated with medication. Other times, simple behavior modification and changes in lifestyle can be enough to get rid of the problem. If you're taking any kind of daily medication, be it over the counter, prescription, or even an herbal remedy, tell your doctor. He or she will evaluate whether or not the medicine you're taking could be contributing to the problem.

Nocturnal panic attacks can interfere with a good night's sleep. And sleep deprivation can cause a variety of physical and mental problems that can cause panic attacks or make them worse. So see your doctor immediately if you're experiencing this problem.