Panick Attack

Panic Attacks are marked by repeated attacks of panic that occur unexpectedly in the absence of any external threat (i.e. out of the blue and without any obvious reason). These attacks begin quickly and build to a peak rapidly (usually in 10 minutes or less). They are often accompanied by a sense of imminent danger or impending death and an urge to escape. Panic attacks are often described as "the most terrifying experience I've ever had". They leave the individual emotionally drained, frightened, feeling vulnerable and anxious about their health.

Often those who suffer with panic attacks are left living in fear of having another attack. Some individuals will significantly change their behaviour (e.g., quit a job) in response to the attacks. Panic Attacks can lead to other problems such as agoraphobia. Often people with agoraphobia refuse to leave their homes. Some will leave home but only when accompanied by a trusted companion. Others are frightened of being alone.

The various symptoms of a panic attack can be understood as follows. First, there is the sudden onset of fear with little or no provoking stimulus. This leads to a release of adrenaline (epinephrine) which brings about the so-called fight-or-flight response where the person's body prepares for major physical activity. This leads to an increased heart rate (tachycardia), rapid breathing (hyperventilation), and sweating (which increases grip and aids heat loss). Because strenuous activity rarely ensues, the hyperventilation leads to a drop in carbon dixide levels in the lungs and then in the blood. This leads to shifts in blood pH which can in turn lead to many other symptoms, such as tingling or numbness, dizziness, and lightheadedness. It is also possible for the person experiencing such an attack to feel as though they are unable to catch their breath, and they begin to take deeper breaths, which also acts to decrease carbon dioxide levels in the blood.

Hyperventilation alone can bring about some of the symptoms of a panic attack. However, the person experiencing the panic attack often does not realize this and sees these symptoms as further evidence of how serious their condition is. An ensuing positive feedback loop of adrenaline release fuels worsening physical symptoms and psychological distress.

While the symptoms and the seriousness of panic disorder are very real, the feelings of panic or impending death that accompany many attacks are exaggerated. Many physicians tell panic disorder sufferers that while their body is affected by the attack, they are not in any risk of fatality (except due to auxiliary reactions such as crashing a car). If a sufferer can anticipate an attack and find a safe place to release, there is little immediate risk.