There is much confusion over panic attacks

WEDNESDAY, JULY 13: Imagine a sudden fear overtaking you. Your heart begins to pound, you start to tremble and feel dizzy or faint, you get chills or hot flashes and you feel intense terror.

You might feel like you’re losing control, having a heart attack or even dying, but you could actually be suffering from a panic attack.

A panic attack is a sudden episode of overwhelming fear that develops often for no apparent reason and that triggers severe physical reactions.

The actual panic attack symptoms usually peak within 10 minutes and last about half an hour, yet the physical and emotional effects may last much longer. Many people have experienced panic attacks at some time in their lives; but if you have had several and have spent long periods fearing another attack, you may have a chronic condition called panic disorder, which is a type of anxiety disorder.

It’s not known what causes panic attacks or panic disorder. It may be genetic or a reaction to certain situations such as significant stress, the death or serious illness of a loved one, significant changes in your life or undergoing a traumatic event.

Symptoms of panic disorder often start either in late adolescence or early adulthood and affect more women than men. Those suffering from depression may also be more inclined to experience one or more panic attacks due to their vulnerability and weak state of mind. In addition, panic attacks are more likely to occur after excessive caffeine or alcohol use, when you are fatigued, or otherwise stressed.

At one time dismissed as nerves or stress, panic disorder is now recognized as a legitimate medical condition. Left untreated, panic attacks and panic disorder can result in severe complications that affect almost every area of your life. You may be so afraid of having more panic attacks that you live in a constant state of fear, ruining your quality of life.

Complications that panic attacks may cause or be associated with include:

• Development of specific phobias, such as fear of driving, flying or leaving your home
• Avoidance of social situations
• Problems at work or school
• Depression
• Increased risk of suicide or suicidal thoughts
• Alcohol or substance abuse
• Financial problems.

If you have any panic attack symptoms, seek medical help as soon as possible. Panic attacks are hard to manage on your own, and they may get worse without treatment. Also, because panic attack symptoms can resemble other serious health problems, such as a heart attack, it’s important to get evaluated by your health care provider.

Treatment for panic disorder is very effective and most people are eventually able to resume everyday activities. The main treatment options for panic attacks are antidepressant or anti-anxiety medications and psychotherapy. Medications can help reduce symptoms associated with panic attacks, as well as depression if that’s an issue for you. Psychotherapy, also called counselling or talk therapy, can help you understand panic attacks and panic disorder and how to cope with them.

With better understanding about panic disorder and the courage to seek help, you can free yourself from the debilitating chains of panic attacks.