You already know a panic attack can make your life significantly difficult. But what exactly is the definition? A panic attack is described as an episode of intense fear which can be triggered by severe stress, for example, a major life change such as the death of a loved one or a traumatic experience such as sexual assault. What makes Panic Attacks different from an episode of high anxiety is that during a Panic attack you’ll experience intense fear, for example of dying, losing control or collapsing, which is not normally experienced during heightened anxiety episodes.
What Are The Symptoms Of a Panic Attack? – Panic attacks come with frightening symptoms:
- Shortness of breath or hyperventilating
- Fastened heartbeat
- Feeling ill and lightheaded
- Feeling out of control or like you’re about to die (the distinctive sign of a panic attack!)
- Tingling sensation in your fingers or lips
- Shaking and sweating
- Chest pain
Symptoms vary from person to person but most people experience a mix of them. Since these symptoms are similar to those of a heart attack, it’s not uncommon to confuse one condition for the other. The difference is that a heart attack commonly occurs during physical exertion and worsens over time, while a panic attack can occur suddenly and resolves within 20 minutes.
Tips To Feel Better After A Panic Attack:
- Listen to favourite music or watch a favourite show. When you feel vulnerable, it’s a good idea to do something that brings comfort. It could be listening to a song you like, watching a favourite show or eating your favourite food.
- Have a hot bath. A panic attack can make you feel mentally exhausted and detached from reality. Having a hot bath will relax you and help you focus on the pleasant physical sensation.
- Go outside. Another way to bring yourself back to the present is by going for a walk. Light exercise will have a calming effect and focusing on the world around you will help you distract from anxious thoughts.
- Reach out to a loved one. Even when a panic attack ends, the anxiety might still linger. Talking through your feelings to a close friend or a family member can help you feel less overwhelmed.
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