Panic Attack : Causes, Types, Treatment and Symptoms

A panic attack is a sudden surge of intense fear or discomfort that occurs unexpectedly, without any clear reason or triggers, reaching its peak within minutes. Physical and mental symptoms, such as trembling and a fear of impending doom, mostly accompany them. When they happen frequently, they may indicate an underlying panic disorder. A typical panic attack may include physical and psychological symptoms, for which a patient might benefit from medical treatment and specific coping strategies.

Most common panic attack symptoms:

• Fear of outbursts related to death or losing control
• Inability to focus due to racing thoughts
• Feeling detached from oneself and derealisation
• Muscle trembling or shaking
• Difficulty regulating body temperature (hot flashes, sweating, chills)
• Heart palpitations
• Shortness of breath
• Sensation of choking
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Tingling in the hands, feet, or face

Causes of Panic Attacks

Panic attacks can occur when multiple factors come together, including biological, psychological, and environmental triggers. These can cause the body to react with a “fight-or-flight” response, creating a false alarm that might be mistaken for a heart attack or loss of control.

• Pre-existing anxiety disorders, such as anxiety or PTSD
• Past traumatic experiences
• Chronic stress or financial difficulties
• Alcohol and nicotine use
• Caffeine or recreational drug use/withdrawal
• Significant life changes, like having a baby or experiencing a divorce
• Unhealthy eating habits
• Panic attack in sleep due to a bad sleep schedule
• Chemical imbalances in the brain
• Hyperthyroidism

When to Seek a Specialist for Your Panic Attack?

A panic attack can sometimes be mistaken for a heart attack, triggering a surge of adrenaline that activates the body’s “fight-or-flight” response, potentially leading to a cycle of frequent attacks. A healthcare professional can provide treatments such as medication or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).

• Severe physical symptoms like fainting or irregular heartbeat
• Symptoms resembling a heart attack
• Frequent unexpected panic attacks
• Impact on daily tasks, work, or social life
• Severe mood swings or new symptoms of depression
• Fear of future attacks
• Agoraphobia — fear of leaving your comfort zone and venturing into public places

Don’t wait for signs to grow severe. Consult our psychiatrists today

Diagnostic Approach for Panic Attacks

Diagnosing panic attacks involves medical tests and physical examinations to identify any underlying health issues and rule out other causes that mimic panic attacks. This is followed by a psychological assessment to confirm whether the nature and type of panic attacks meet the criteria outlined in DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders).

• Complete medical history
• Physical examination
• Blood tests
• Cardiac tests
• Evaluation of symptoms based on DSM-5 criteria

Types of Panic Attacks

Understanding the type and nature of panic attacks is important for identifying and treating underlying conditions, as well as developing strategies to prevent triggers and applying appropriate therapy.

Some common types of panic attacks include:

• Expected (cued) panic attacks
• Unexpected (spontaneous) panic attacks
• Situationally predisposed panic attacks

How to treat the Panic Attack symptoms?

Effective panic attack treatment involves immediate self-help during an attack and long-term strategies to prevent future episodes. Regular exercise, a nutritious diet, sufficient sleep, and prescribed medication may be recommended.

For known underlying causes, treatments & management strategies include:

• Controlled Breathing: practising slow, deep breaths, inhaling through the nose and exhaling through the mouth.
• Recognising the Attack: understanding that panic attacks are temporary and non-life-threatening.
• 5-4-3-2-1 Grounding Technique: anchoring oneself in the present by noticing five things to see, four to feel, three to hear, two to smell, and one to taste.
• 3-3-3 Grounding Technique: naming three things seen, touched, and taking three deep breaths for immediate relief.
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): developing new coping mechanisms by reframing anxious thoughts.
• Relaxing muscle groups to ease tension.
• Stress management activities like yoga, tai chi, and meditation.

What if Panic Attacks is Left Untreated?

Frequent episodes of debilitating panic attacks lead to some serious complications, and they must receive early treatment to manage symptoms and prevent the risk of such complications. Early intervention, such as talk therapy (also known as psychotherapy, or counselling), and taking prescribed medications like anti-anxiety and antidepressant medications, to help manage and avoid panic attack symptoms effectively, along with healthy lifestyle choices.

• Agoraphobia – fear of leaving safe spaces and venturing into public places.
• Social isolation – often stems from fear and avoidance behavior, causing problems at work, school, and with friends.
• Substance misuse (alcohol & other recreational drugs) to cope with anxiety and stress.
• Increased risk of suicidal thoughts or ideas
• Depression and panic attacks – panic attacks, if left untreated, progress into depression and other mental health issues.

Have any questions or concerns about your health? We’re here to help! Call us at +918065906165  for expert advice and support.