Health Topics for Mental and Emotional Health

Department of Psychiatry

Panic Attacks

Many people with anxiety have panic attacks. Anxiety is the intense worry, mistrust, and fear that comes when we feel threatened. In a panic attack, these feelings often occur to such a degree that normal functioning is impaired. Panic attacks occur in people who have many different psychological problems.

Panic attacks can be very frightening. They usually:

• are unexpected and occur without any precipitating event
• last from 20 to 30 minutes and
• cause feelings of fear and impending doom

Physical symptoms include:

• a rapid and irregular heart rate
• sweating and
• shortness of breath

Of course, with these symptoms, you could be having heart problems or other illnesses. If you have chest pain with these symptoms, get immediate help. Schedule a complete medical work-up if you suspect you are having panic attacks. Tell your doctor how the attack came on, how long it lasted, and what scared you most. Your doctor may test your thyroid or do an EKG.

Some helpful actions you can take include:

• stop using caffeine, such as in coffee, tea, colas, and chocolate
• do not use over-the-counter or illicit stimulants such as diet supplements, amphetamines or cocaine
• try meditation or relaxation exercises
• daily moderate exercise and
• avoid using alcohol

Many medicines can help people control panic attacks. Psychotherapy can also be useful. Learning to relax with biofeedback or other techniques can sometimes decrease symptoms of panic attacks. Ask your primary care provider for more information. Many support groups are also available to help people who have panic attacks.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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