Panic Attacks

What is Panic Attack Anxiety Disorder ?

Panic attack is a sudden episode of intense fear or anxiety and physical symptoms, based on perceived threat rather than imminent danger. The surprising thing about panic attack is that the cause is a perceived threat. It is form of anxiety disorder.

People with panic attack often experience a sudden and intense fear that is accompanied by physiological changes such as increased heartbeat or increased body temperature.

Almost everyone at a point in their lives have experienced events that cause them to panic. However, a persistent experience of panic attacks that interfere with our daily functioning or limits us from doing the tasks we should normally do, is an indication of a panic attack anxiety disorder. Panic attack disorder require psychosocial help in order to prevent further health implications that may arise from having a recurrent panic attack.

How do you know that you have panic attack anxiety disorder?

Considering that panic attacks mostly occur suddenly, the following may help you know when you are developing a panic attack anxiety disorder;

You suddenly become fearful and anxious for no reason.

• You feel a recurring pounding heartbeat

• You experience headaches or body aches.

• You experience shortness of breath or obstructed breathing due to intense fear

• You experience sweating and body shakes

• You may also feel like you are about to faint or have a heart attack

• You may also feel helpless or a loss of control due to intense fear

What causes panic attack anxiety disorder?

There is no specific cause of panic attack anxiety disorder. However, the following factors may be involved in causing a panic attack anxiety disorder.

Biological factors such as heredity or imbalances in body chemicals such as neurotransmitters.

Psychological factors such as exposure to stress, temperaments, personal experiences, or misinterpretation of events around us.

Social factors such as cultural norms practised in our societies.

What are the treatments for panic attack anxiety disorder?

The treatment can be broadly grouped as follows:

Use of anti-anxiety medications, which are often prescribed by psychiatrists.

Psychotherapy (e.g., cognitive-behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, compassion-focused therapy, etc.)

Lifestyle modification (e.g., exercise, nutrition, sleep, reduction of stress, etc.)

A combination of the three (3) groups of treatment is often the best form of treatment for people with panic attack anxiety problems.