Have You Ever Had a Panic Attack?

By Brittany Albright MD, MPH

At Sweetgrass Psychiatry, we know panic attacks. This is one of the most common issues that we see and treat. Panic attacks can be debilitating and lead to panic disorder. It is extremely important to receive treatment and the necessary coping skills to combat panic attacks.

What is a Panic Attack?

A panic attack is a sudden and intense episode of extreme fear or discomfort that typically peaks within minutes. It can feel like the “fight or flight” response. It is a symptom of an anxiety disorder known as panic disorder. During a panic attack, a person may experience several physical and psychological symptoms simultaneously. These can include:

1. Physical symptoms:

   • Rapid heartbeat or palpitations

   • Chest pain or discomfort

   • Shortness of breath or a feeling of suffocation

   • Trembling or shaking

   • Sweating

   • Dizziness or lightheadedness

   • Nausea or stomach discomfort

   • Chills or hot flashes

   • Tingling sensations or numbness

2. Psychological symptoms:

   • Intense fear of losing control or going crazy

   • Feeling detached from oneself or reality (derealization or depersonalization)

   • Fear of dying or having a heart attack

   • A sense of impending doom or catastrophe

   • Overwhelming feelings of anxiety or distress

Panic attacks can be triggered by specific situations or can occur unexpectedly without any apparent trigger. They can be extremely distressing and may lead individuals to develop a fear of having future panic attacks, which can contribute to the development of panic disorder.

How do Panic Attacks Lead to Panic Disorder?

Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent and unexpected panic attacks. In addition to experiencing panic attacks, individuals with panic disorder also have persistent concerns about future attacks, worry about the consequences of the attacks, and may make significant behavioral changes to avoid situations that they believe may trigger an attack.

To be diagnosed with panic disorder, the panic attacks must be accompanied by at least one month of ongoing concern about having additional attacks or their consequences, such as losing control, having a heart attack, or going crazy. These concerns can significantly impact a person's daily life and overall well-being.

Some key features of panic disorder include:

1. Recurrent Panic Attacks: Panic attacks are the hallmark feature of panic disorder. These attacks are sudden and reach their peak within minutes, with intense symptoms of fear or discomfort.

2. Fear of Future Attacks: Individuals with panic disorder live in fear of experiencing another panic attack. This fear can lead to changes in behavior and avoidance of certain situations or places.

3. Anticipatory Anxiety: The anxiety and worry about future panic attacks can lead to a state of constant vigilance and heightened anxiety even in the absence of an actual attack.

4. Agoraphobia (in some cases): Agoraphobia is often associated with panic disorder. It involves a fear of being in situations where escape might be difficult or where help may not be readily available, leading to avoidance of places or situations that could trigger a panic attack.

Panic disorder can significantly impact an individual's quality of life, causing distress and interference with daily activities. It is important for people experiencing symptoms of panic disorder to seek professional help from a mental health provider who can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of both.

Can Medical Conditions Cause Panic Attacks?

Certain medical conditions can contribute to the development of panic attacks or mimic the symptoms of a panic attack. It is essential to consider medical causes when evaluating panic-like symptoms. Some medical conditions known to be associated with panic attacks include:

1. Cardiac Conditions: Certain heart conditions, such as heart arrhythmias, mitral valve prolapse, and coronary artery disease, can produce symptoms that resemble a panic attack. When there is uncertainty, it is crucial to rule out any underlying cardiac issues.

2. Respiratory Conditions: Respiratory disorders like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and hyperventilation syndrome can lead to shortness of breath, chest tightness, and other symptoms similar to those experienced during a panic attack.

3. Endocrine Conditions: Disorders related to the endocrine system, such as hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), can cause anxiety-like symptoms, including rapid heartbeat, sweating, and trembling, which may resemble a panic attack.

4. Neurological Conditions: Certain neurological conditions, such as epilepsy, migraines, and vestibular disorders, can trigger symptoms similar to panic attacks, such as dizziness, disorientation, and sensory disturbances.

5. Medications and Substance Use: Some medications, including certain antidepressants, stimulants, and even caffeine, can induce symptoms similar to a panic attack. Additionally, drug withdrawal or substance abuse can lead to anxiety-like symptoms.

How do I Get Through a Panic Attack?

If you or someone you know is experiencing a panic attack, here are some strategies that can help in dealing with it:

1. Recognize and Accept the Panic Attack: Acknowledge that what you are experiencing is a panic attack. Remind yourself that panic attacks are generally not life-threatening, even though they can feel overwhelming. Accepting the panic attack can help reduce the intensity of the fear associated with it.

2. Practice Deep Breathing: Focus on your breathing and practice deep, slow breaths. Inhale slowly through your nose, counting to four, and then exhale through your mouth, counting to four. This can help regulate your breathing and promote a sense of calm.

3. Engage in Grounding Techniques: Grounding techniques can help bring your attention back to the present moment and reduce the intensity of panic symptoms. Examples include:

   • Focus on your senses by describing things you see, hear, touch, or smell around you.

   • Perform a simple grounding exercise, such as naming objects of a particular color in your environment.

   • Use a stress ball or squeeze a small object in your hand to redirect your focus.

4. Challenge Negative Thoughts: Panic attacks are often accompanied by negative thoughts and catastrophic thinking. Challenge these thoughts by reminding yourself that they are a result of anxiety and not based on reality. Replace them with more positive and realistic statements.

5. Use Relaxation Techniques: Engage in relaxation techniques to help calm your body and mind. This may include progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, meditation, or listening to calming music.

6. Seek Support: If possible, reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or a supportive person who can help you through the panic attack. Verbalizing your experience and having someone present can provide comfort and reassurance.

7. Consider Therapy: Psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can help you learn coping skills, identify triggers, and address the underlying causes of panic attacks. A mental health professional can guide you through the process and provide effective strategies.

8. Consult a Healthcare Professional: If you experience recurrent panic attacks or if they significantly interfere with your daily life, it is advisable to seek professional help from a mental health provider. They can assess your situation, provide an accurate diagnosis, and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Remember, these suggestions are general strategies and may not work the same way for everyone. It is important to find what works best for you and to consult with a healthcare professional at Sweetgrass Psychiatry in Mount Pleasant, SC, Isle of Palms, SC or virtually for personalized guidance.

Call Sweetgrass Psychiatry at (843) 800-1303 for help for your anxiety today.