(Newswire.net — November 26, 2021) —
An anxiety attack is a short, intense period of fear or anxiety that suddenly occurs. Anxiety attacks usually begin suddenly, peak within 10 minutes or less, and then subside.
On the other hand, Panic attacks are a feeling of intense fear or apprehension that comes on suddenly and reaches a peak within a few minutes. The peak is accompanied by physical symptoms, such as chest pain, heart palpitations, or shortness of breath. When a panic attack strikes, it is a terrifying experience. The physical symptoms can become so intense that a person begins to believe they are dying, having a heart attack, or losing control of their mind.
It is vital to know the differences between anxiety and panic. If you are experiencing an anxiety attack, it is important to know you are not losing your mind or having a heart attack. After hours of research, we are here to differentiate between anxiety and panic.
Definition of anxiety and panic attacks
Anxiety is something that affects an estimated one in five adults in the United States. It’s a normal stress reaction, and everyone feels anxious at some point in their life.
Panic attacks are episodes of intense fear or discomfort that reach a peak within minutes. The symptoms of a panic attack usually include intense fear, discomfort, or feelings of impending doom that strike without warning. The symptoms can range in number, intensity, and frequency, depending on the person. For example, one person may suffer a single episode in their life, while someone else may suffer frequent attacks.
What are the Characteristics of a Panic Attack?
Panic attacks are intense episodes of fear or anxiety that are so powerful that they trick people into thinking they are having a heart attack. Symptoms include a pounding heart, chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, and feelings of terror or doom. A panic attack can feel so intense that people who have never had one may think they are dying.
What are the Causes of Panic Attacks?
The cause of a panic attack is usually a combination of the following:
- A genetic predisposition to anxiety disorders (many people who experience panic attacks also have a family history of anxiety disorders).
- The tendency to interpret ordinary physical symptoms as dangerous (for example, feeling faint or having trouble breathing because you are out of breath or because you are afraid of what might happen to your heart if you become anxious.
- Stressful life events (major life changes, relationship problems, losing a job, etc.).
- Having an anxiety disorder (for example, panic disorder, social phobia, or agoraphobia).
- Not getting enough sleep.
- Using alcohol or drugs (such as caffeine, nicotine, or cocaine) for stimulation, to relax, or to relieve anxiety.
What is the fight or flight response and how does it cause physical symptoms?
The fight or flight response, also known as the acute stress response, is a physiological reaction that occurs in response to a perceived harmful event, attack, or threat to survival. It is a reaction that all mammals have in common. The response involves several physiological changes, but the reaction is the same in humans and other mammals.
When the body senses danger, it reacts physiologically to protect itself. Blood flow is redirected to major muscle groups, the breathing rate increases, the heart beats faster, and blood vessels in muscles dilate. The reaction is intended to prepare the body to fight or run. The reaction is an important part of the body’s natural “emergency response” system. Fight or flight reaction is a “last resort” reaction, designed to protect the body when other less drastic measures (like freezing or seeking shelter) are not enough. It is this reaction that causes the “fight or flight” response.
How can I cope with panic attacks?
If you or a loved one is experiencing a panic attack and you don’t know what to do, the short answer is: don’t panic. Panic attacks can be tough to get through, but they don’t pose any long-term harm and will eventually subside. The most important thing you can do is to learn everything you can about panic attacks and how to cope with them. Panic attacks can feel like they last forever, but eventually, they do end, usually within 10 to 20 minutes. Without ongoing treatment, though, they can return. Here’s some information on what you can do to help cope with a panic attack once it starts.
Conclusion
If you are experiencing a panic attack, it is important to get the support you need. If you are in crisis and need immediate help, call your local mental health crisis center or call help center. For more help with mental disorders contact Honey Lake Clinic with an inpatient treatment facility to help those struggling with addictions or psychological issues.