Symptoms of Panic Attacks

The symptoms of panic attacks start for no obvious reason.

It may begin with just a twinge of anxiety, a slight nervousness. But then the symptoms rapidly worsen and the victim finds themselves in the clutches of a panic attack.

The hallmark of the disorder is a feeling of panic. Intense fear or even terror might be a more accurate description of the sensation. This feeling arises in the absence of any obvious danger, but the experience of the fear is very real and overwhelming.

The physical reaction is profound. It’s as if the person’s very life is threatened yet no threat exists. The intense physical symptoms add to the terror.

The Symptoms of Panic Attacks Include:

• A pounding, rapid pulse. The person may feel as if their “heart will beat right out of my chest”.
• Difficult breathing. The person’s breathing becomes rapid and shallow and they feel as if they’re suffocating.
• There’s the intense feeling of terror and impending doom I’ve already mentioned.
• Severe nausea is common
• Trembling and uncontrollable shaking are also common.
• Sweating or chills or hot flashes are part of the picture.
• The rapid breathing leads to dizziness and lightheadedness that worsen the situation.
• The person might also have tingling of their hands and feet, again as a result of the rapid breathing.

Obviously, one might experience these symptoms in a frightening situation. However, in panic attacks there is no obvious danger to warrant this response.

The feeling of terror is very real. Anyone who has suffered one dreads its recurrence. This in itself is another possible symptom of panic disorder – a fear of future panic attacks.

As a result of this fear, someone with the disorder may start avoiding places and situations where attacks have occurred.

Some people may avoid crowds while others fear being alone. For still others, the feared event may be parties or business meetings. Obviously, such fears greatly affect a person’s life.

As severe and disruptive as these symptoms are you can see why someone seeks treatment. Fortunately treatment is available.

I have other pages on this site talking about some treatment options. I also reviewed one of the best programs I've found for overcoming panic attacks.

That program might be what you're looking for. If it had been available years ago, I think I could have gotten better a lot more quickly. You can check out that review here. Or click on the link below to find out a lot more about Panic Away.  It's a great course.

Find Out About Panic Away