Panic attack can be defined in its simplest form as a type of fear seizure that manifests itself with severe physical symptoms. During these seizures, there is no real danger or risk present, but the person experiencing the attack may be in great distress, fear, or even terror. Panic disorder is a mental health condition characterized by the recurrence of such attacks. It also exhibits the following symptoms:
*The person worries about experiencing similar attacks during the intervals between seizures.
*They constantly feel sadness due to the fear that the attacks could lead to a heart attack, stroke, losing control and going crazy, or embarrassing themselves.
*To avoid the possibility of having a panic attack and its potential negative consequences, they may change some of their behaviors or develop new habits (such as avoiding or carrying certain foods and drinks, not going to work, or not doing housework).
Panic disorder is a condition that occurs in 3-4% of the general population. It typically emerges between the ages of 20 and 35. It is rarely observed in individuals under the age of 14. It is believed that the frequency of occurrence has increased in recent years. Women are exposed to this issue 2-3 times more than men.
The most distinctive feature of the attacks is that it is unpredictable when they will occur. The crisis starts suddenly, intensifies, and reaches its maximum level within 10 minutes. It usually lasts no longer than 20-30 minutes, but it has been observed to extend up to 1 hour.
Panic Attack Symptoms
If at least 4 of the following symptoms occur simultaneously, a panic attack crisis may be present.
*Shortness of breath or feeling like choking
*Rapid heartbeat
*Nausea or abdominal pain
*Dizziness, lightheadedness, feeling faint
*Sudden need to use the bathroom
*Feeling of terror or fear of death
*Hot flashes, sweating, or trembling
*A sense of detachment from oneself or reality; feeling that oneself or the people around them have become strange or different
*Numbness or tingling sensations in different parts of the body
*Tinnitus
*Dry mouth
Panic Attack Risk Factors
*Genetic predisposition
*Some anatomical issues (One of these is the failure of the area known as the blue spot in the brainstem to function properly.)
*Tobacco, alcohol, caffeine, and drugs (They can lead to an increase in the frequency of attacks.)
*Some antidepressants (They can lead to the emergence of panic attack symptoms in the early stages.)
*Traumatic events (such as being sexually assaulted, losing a loved one, experiencing childhood abuse, or divorce.)
*Imbalances in certain substances in the brain
*Certain personality traits (Hysterical individuals, shy people, and those with OCD or borderline personality disorder may be more prone to panic disorder.)
Panic Attack Treatment Methods
There is no standard method used for the diagnosis of panic disorder. The consulting doctor may request some tests to rule out various diseases that could lead to attacks. If they suspect panic disorder, they may refer the person to a mental health professional.
One of the methods used for the treatment of the disorder is cognitive behavioral therapy. This practice aims to help the person understand that the physical symptoms experienced during a panic attack crisis do not indicate a life-threatening situation. In addition, talk therapy, hypnosis, or medication treatment methods may also be applied.
Psychology and Mental Health
