Anxiety attacks, or panic attacks, are sudden episodes of intense fear, panic or generalized anxiety. These episodes occur suddenly, often without warning, although sometimes a trigger for the symptoms can be identified. The episodes are brief, usually less than an hour. Sometimes these episodes can cycle into a prolonged state of panic.
Psychological Symptoms
People undergoing a panic attack have a sudden onset of overwhelming panic or fear about something. Sometimes this is triggered by phobias, like claustrophobia; drugs, like hallucinogens; and underlying psychological conditions, like obsessive compulsive disorders. Occasionally, the patient cannot identify the trigger of the panic attacks. During a panic attack, people may feel disconnected from reality, may have a sense of impending doom, or think they are going to pass out or even die. In general, people feel as if they are losing control.
Physical Symptoms
Panic attacks generate what is called a sympathetic response in the body. This is the fight-or-flight reaction that accompanies dangerous situations. The physical characteristics include rapid heart rate, rapid breathing and chest pain or tightness. Patients may feel dizzy, exhibit trembling or shaking and have sweats, hot flashes, or chills. Patients feel stomach cramps and can have vomiting or diarrhea. The rapid breathing can lead to paresthesias, or tingling sensations, particularly on the extremities, toes and fingers.
Physiological Symptoms
The fight-or-flight response involves a sudden surge of adrenaline. This hormone causes your pupils to constrict, or narrow; a rapid heart beat and breathing, and sweating. The rapid respiratory rate can lead to shortness of breath and a decrease of carbon dioxide in the blood due to inadequate air exchange, which can cause dizziness. The decrease in carbon dioxide can also lead to the tingling sensation in the extremities. Adrenaline also constricts blood vessels, decreasing blood flow to the brain, which can make the person pass out.
