Panic Attack Symptoms

Panic Attack Symptoms -- How to Recognize Them

Panic attacks are episodes of intense anxiety experienced by one-third of the population. Nearly one in every seventy-five people deal with panic attacks on a regular basis. While the effects of panic attacks are unpleasant and even frightening, the good news is that this disorder can be effectively treated by either therapy, medicine, or a combination of the two. The first step in improving symptoms is understanding what they are. Read on to learn more about panic attack symptoms and how they affect the body and mind.

Racing heartbeat -- During a panic attack, the pulse may become elevated to an alarming level. It may feel like your heart is pounding or beating irregularly. It's important to understand while this is an uncomfortable symptom, it's not a life threatening one.

Excessive Sweating -- You may break out in a cold sweat or feel clammy, a common reaction to intense anxiety.

Trembling and Shaking -- Another one of the many panic attack symptoms is trembling or shaking. Your hands might may shake, or your whole body may feel like it's trembling. Your teeth may chatter and you might feel very cold or hot.

Shortness of Breath -- During a panic attack, you might also feel like you cannot breathe. Some people report feeling like they have to gasp for air.

Dizziness -- Some people feel dizzy or lightheaded during a panic attack. Often this is caused by a reduction of oxygen to the brain which results from taking gasping or shallow breaths. One way to decrease this sensation is to take slow, deep breaths.

Nausea and Stomach Discomfort -- Gastrointestinal effects are some of the most common panic attack symptoms people experience. You may experience diarrhea, constipation, nausea, vomiting, or butterflies in your stomach.

Intense Fear -- Another symptom is that of intense fear or dread. You might feel like you have no control over yourself. You might wonder if you're going crazy. These thoughts are common to panic attacks and must be treated as such rather than taken as fact.

There are other panic attack symptoms that you may experience. Some people experience lots of symptoms, others just a few. Severity of panic attacks also depends on the individual. Panic attacks can range from mild to extreme. If you think you're suffering from panic attacks, you should see a medical professional immediately for a thorough evaluation. There is help for people who experience panic attacks -- all you have to do is ask for it.