What is Panic attack?
Brief episodes of intense anxiety or fear that occur suddenly and usually disappear within 30 minutes, usually without apparent cause, but sometimes related to an identifiable triggering stimulus (such as an existing phobia), accompanied by a sense of unreality or impending loss of control and various physical symptoms (fast heartbeat, chest pain, dizziness, shortness of breath, etc.). Best Psychiatrist in Lahore can efficiently help you overcome this condition. By providing you some useful tips.
Panic Attack versus Anxiety Attack
Both panic attacks and anxiety attacks cause tachycardia, shallow breathing and feelings of anxiety. However, they usually differ in severity and cause. Panic attacks are often more severe and can occur with or without a trigger, while anxiety attacks are a reaction to a perceived threat.
What are the signs of a panic attack?
If you are having a panic attack, you may feel like you are having a panic attack:
- Feeling an irregular or fast heartbeat (palpitations).
- Irregular or fast heartbeat (palpitations)
- Sweating
- Shaking
- Dyspnea (hyperventilation)
- Feeling of suffocation
- Nausea
- dizziness
- tingling in fingers
- Ringing in the ears
Some people think they are having a heart attack because they feel that their heart is beating fast or irregularly or even that they are about to die.
Panic attack usually lasts for 5 to 20 minutes. Even if you feel something is wrong, they are not dangerous and should not hurt you.
Hospitalization is usually not necessary after a panic attack.
What are the causes of panic attacks?
The physical symptoms of a panic attack are caused by the body going into “fight or flight” mode.
Breathing speeds up as the body tries to take in more oxygen. Hormones such as adrenaline are also released into the body, causing the heart to beat faster and muscles to tense.
How to deal with Panic attack?
A professor of clinical psychology and applied science at the University of Bath says it is important not to let the fear of panic attacks rule you.
“Panic attacks will always go away,” he says, “and the symptoms do not mean that something harmful is happening.” Tell yourself that the symptoms you are experiencing are caused by anxiety.”
Don’t look for distractions.” Experience “aggression. Try something. If possible, try to stay in the moment until the anxiety goes away.”
“Face your fear. It gives you the opportunity to see that if you don’t avoid it, nothing will happen.”
Once the anxiety begins to dissipate, look around you and continue to do what you had been doing.
“If you experience a sudden panic attack in a short period of time, it is helpful to reassure those nearby that the symptoms will go away.” The professor stated.
How to Prevent Panic Attacks:
Professor says.” We need to consider what specific stresses are aggravating the symptoms.” It is important not to restrict exercise or daily activities.
- Practice breathing exercises daily to prevent panic attacks and to relieve them when they do occur.
- Exercise regularly (especially aerobics) to lower stress levels, relieve tension, improve mood, and boost self-esteem.
- Have your meals right on time to maintain your blood sugar level.
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and smoking (these substances can exacerbate panic attacks).
- Join a panic disorder support group for advice on how to cope with panic attacks.
- Try cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to identify and change negative thought patterns that cause panic attacks.
Should you consult a doctor in case of panic attacks?
Panic attacks are usually harmless, although they can cause fainting or even death. However, in some cases a medical diagnosis may be necessary to rule out a physical cause.
Consult a doctor if
- If the panic attack continues after 20 minutes of slow breathing.
- If you still feel unwell after normal breathing has resumed.
- You still have a fast and irregular heartbeat or chest pain after a panic attack.
- If panic attacks are frequent, this may be a sign of panic disorder.
A Psychiatrist can help you overcome this condition. Dr.Syed Zahid Qutab is one of the Top Psychiatrist in Lahore who has vast experience in this field and he can help you to deal this condition.
