Panic Attacks Information - 7 Tidbits to Keep You Informed and Prevent Future Attacks

By Lincoln Broaders

Panic attacks are a condition that impact millions of people each year. Although the cause is unknown, there is some research to support the fact that certain people are genetically predisposed to the condition. Attacks are usually brought on when a particularly stressful event takes place in life, such as graduating from college or university, marrying, having a child or getting divorced. If other members of your family suffer from the condition, then you may have an increased risk of also being afflicted and should stay up-to-date on the latest panic attacks information.

Tidbit #1: Symptoms of Panic Attack Disorder

The following are symptoms which strongly indicate that you may be suffering from an attack: racing heartbeat, difficulty breathing (the feeling of not being able to get enough air or hyperventilating), paralyzing terror, shaking and sweating, chest pains, dizziness, nausea, choking, chills or hot flashes, pins and needles sensations in the out extremities and a fear that you are either going crazy or that you are going to die. Studies are ongoing and panic attacks information regarding symptoms continues to be updated.

Tidbit #2: Are Panic Attacks Dangerous?

Although an attack can occur without warning and there is no way to predict or prevent it, you should know that it is not dangerous and it will pass. It will most likely occur quite suddenly, without any indication that it is going to occur. An episode will only last for a few minutes because it is the body's "fight or flight" response that has taken over and your body cannot sustain this response for longer than a few minutes. That being said; however, an attack can occur repeatedly for several hours.

Tidbit #3: Do You Have Panic Attack Disorder?

Most of us will experience some sort of a "panic attack" at least occasionally. It is when you suffer from repeated, debilitating attacks that you should seek some sort of help. Some people suffer from such severe attacks that they are frightened to leave their homes and interact with society. If you live in constant fear of these types of attacks, then you are most likely suffering from this condition.

Tidbit #4: Are There Side Effect?

If left untreated, panic disorder may lead to phobias. For example, if you have an attack while driving, you may avoid driving and then develop a phobia about driving. Those who suffer from severe attacks spend more time in hospital emergency rooms because they may call 911 when they are suffering from an attack. Many have a high risk of suicide and tend to try to hide from dealing with reality by using drugs and alcohol.

Tidbit #5: What Causes An Attack?

Panic attack disorder may be genetic, although just because someone in your family has the condition, does not mean that you will also suffer from the same disorder. Panic attacks may be a side effect from taking certain medications and in these cases, may be temporary. A significant personal loss such as a breakup, a death in the family or of someone close or a significant change in your life such as quitting smoking or giving up caffeine can also be factors.

Tidbit #6: What Treatments Are Available?

There are wide arrays of treatments that can assist with panic attack disorder. If your case is severe, you may consider psychological therapy in conjunction with medication. There are also diet elimination options, such as avoiding alcohol and caffeine or other substances that can worsen the likelihood of panic attacks. Deep breathing techniques and yoga are also good solutions along with regular exercise which is a known stress reliever.

Tidbit #7: Looking At Your Life Experiences Can Help

If you had a traumatic childhood and were abused and/or neglected, this could be a cause your attacks. A great way to deal with this is to make some time for yourself each day, whether it is having some time alone reading, taking a bath (relaxing) or taking a walk, it is important to take some time for yourself each day. Writing in a journal can also help to a large extent, because you can express exactly how you are feeling, and as things improve, you can read back and see how far you have come.

Panic attack disorder can be debilitating, but it does not have to be. There are many treatments available. You need to access and explore your options and decide which treatment or combination of treatments will work best for you.