What Are Panic Attacks

Panic attacks seem to come out of nowhere and can be extremely frightening. They strike at random and can make people feel out of control and powerless, as if they are about to go insane, or even die. While a surprisingly large number of people experience this problem, many learn to deal with it and go on to successfully conquer it.

A panic attack is borne out of the body's normal physiological response mechanism to dealing with danger. When faced with a potentially threatening situation, the body automatically readies itself for danger by producing adrenaline. This is known as the "flight or fight" response which is a survival instinct much more appropriate for our ancestors than to the stresses we face today.

  • Adrenalin has a number of effects on the body:

  • The muscles tense.

  • Breathing quickens to increase oxygen intake so that the

    muscles are more able to transform sugars into energy.

  • The heart rate increases to pump blood to where
    it’s needed.

  • Blood flow is diverted to the muscles, away from areas that
    don't need it, resulting in paleness.

  • The salivary glands dry up as digestion slows down, causing
    a dry mouth.

  • The senses become more alert so that the slightest sound or
    touch can cause a reaction.

  • There is increased sweating.


    • All of these reactions occur in a matter of seconds. During a panic attack a number of emotional and physical sensations may affect you. You may experience:

  • very rapid breathing or breathlessness

  • a very rapid heartbeat

  • chest pains

  • faintness or a dizzy feeling

  • sweating

  • ringing in your ears

  • tingling or numbness in your hands and feet

  • hot or cold flushes

  • nausea

  • a need to go to the toilet

  • feelings of absolute terror

  • feelings of unreality, called depersonalisation.


    • Panic attacks happen very quickly with symptoms peaking within 10 minutes. Most panic attacks last between five and 20 minutes, but may last for up to an hour. There may be a high level of anxiety after the initial attack. A person may have one or two panic attacks and never experience another.

    Panic attacks may happen during the night when asleep. During the night the body is on 'high alert' and small, normal changes in the body may be taken as a sign of danger. (It is normal for the brain to monitor the bodies activities while asleep) Night time panic attacks are particularly frightening as you can feel helpless to do anything to stop them coming. They are therefore more unpredictable and less controllable.

    By: Craig Summer

    Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

    Understanding why you get panic or anxiety attacks is the first step in stopping them! Get your FREE copy of Getting to Know Anxiety Craig Summer is article writer at www.panicrelief.com

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