A panic attack is a sudden surge of overwhelming anxiety and fear. Your heart
pounds and you can’t breathe. You may even feel like you’re dying or going
crazy. Left untreated, panic attacks can lead to panic disorder and other
problems. They may even cause you to withdraw from normal activities. But panic
- attacks can be cured and the sooner you seek help, the better. With treatment,
life
Understanding panic attacks
In many cases, panic attacks strike out of the blue, without any
warning. Often, there is no clear reason for the attack. They may
even occur when you’re relaxed or asleep.
A panic attack may be a one-time occurrence, but many people experience
repeat episodes. Recurrent panic attacks are often triggered by a
specific situation, such as crossing a bridge or speaking in
public – especially if that situation has caused a panic attack
before. Usually, the panic-inducing situation is one in which you feel
endangered and unable to escape
You may experience one or more panic attacks, yet be otherwise perfectly
happy and healthy. Or your panic attacks may occur as part of
another disorder, such as panic disorder, social phobia, or
depression. Regardless of the cause, panic attacks are treatable.
There are many effective treatments and coping strategies you can use to deal with the symptoms.
For more information http://www.helpguide.org/mental/panic_disorder_anxiety_attack_symptom_treatment.htm