Panic attack

A panic attack is a brief episode of intense anxiety, which causes the physical sensations of fear. These can include a racing heartbeat, shortness of breath, dizziness, trembling and muscle tension. Panic attacks occur frequently and unexpectedly and are often not related to any external threat. A panic attack can last from a few minutes to half an hour. However, the physical and emotional effects of the attack may last for a few hours.

Panic attacks are common. Up to 35 per cent of the population experience a panic attack at some time in their lives. A panic attack can also be called an anxiety attack.

Without treatment, frequent and prolonged panic attacks can be severely disabling. The person may choose to avoid a wide range of situations (such as leaving their home or being alone) for fear of experiencing an attack.

Some people may develop panic disorders
For many people, the feelings of panic occur only occasionally during periods of stress or illness. A person who experiences recurring panic attacks is said to have panic disorder, which is a type of anxiety disorder. They generally have recurring and unexpected panic attacks and persistent fears of repeated attacks.

Symptoms
Symptoms of a panic attack can include:

Heightened vigilance for danger and physical symptoms
Anxious and irrational thinking
A strong feeling of dread, danger or foreboding
Fear of going mad, losing control or dying
Feeling lightheaded and dizzy
Tingling and chills, particularly in the arms and hands
Trembling or shaking, sweating
Hot flushes
Accelerated heart rate
A feeling of constriction in the chest
Breathing difficulties, including shortness of breath
Nausea or abdominal distress
Tense muscles
Dry mouth
Feelings of unreality and detachment from the environment.