Panic Attack is a sudden and intense episode of overwhelming fear or dread that is often accompanied by physical symptoms such as heart palpitations, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, and a feeling of impending doom or loss of control. Panic attacks usually peak within 10 minutes and can last up to an hour.
During a panic attack, individuals may experience a variety of symptoms including:
1. Racing heartbeat or palpitations
2. Sweating or chills
3. Trembling or shaking
4. Feeling of choking or difficulty breathing
5. Chest pain or discomfort
6. Nausea or abdominal distress
7. Feeling of dizziness or lightheadedness
8. Numbness or tingling sensations
9. Feeling of derealization or depersonalization
10. Fear of losing control or going crazy
11. Fear of dying
Panic attacks may occur in response to specific triggers or may happen unexpectedly without any apparent cause. They are often accompanied by a sense of impending doom or a fear that something terrible is going to happen. Panic attacks can be a symptom of panic disorder, a type of anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent and unpredictable panic attacks.
Treatment options include cognitive-behavioral therapy, medication, and relaxation techniques.
Claude Borenzweig LCSW
Psychotherapy | CBT | Mindfulness
New York, NY | Great Barrington, MA
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