WHAT IS A PANIC ATTACK?

WHAT IS A PANIC ATTACK?
The Symptoms of a Panic Attack
Definition of a Panic Attack
A panic attack is a sudden and intense feeling of terror; fear or apprehension, without the presence of actual danger. The symptoms of a panic attack usually happen suddenly, peak within 10 minutes and then subside. However, some attacks may last longer or may occur in succession, making it difficult to determine when one attack ends and another begins.
The Three Types of Panic Attacks
Panic attacks are classified into three types:
Spontaneous or uncued panic attacks without warning or “out of the blue.” Not situational or environmental triggers are associated with the attack. These types of panic attacks may even occur during one's sleep.
Situationally bound.or cued panic attacks occur upon actual or anticipated exposure to certain situations. These situations become cues or triggers for a panic episode. For example, an individual who fears enclosed spaces experiences a panic attack when entering, or thinking about entering, an elevator.
Situationally predisposed panic attacks don't always occur immediately upon exposure to a feared situation or cue, but the individual is more likely to experience a panic episode in every social situation, or who experiences a delayed attack after being in a social environment or an extended period of time.
DSM-IV-TR Criteria
According to the DSM-IV-TR, a panic attack is charaterized by four or more of the following symptoms:
palpitations, pounding heart, or accelerated heart rate
sweating
trembling or shaking
sensations of shortness of breath
feeling of choking
chest pain or discomfort
nausea or abdominal distress
feeling dizzy, unsteady, lightheaded, or faint
feelings of unreality (derealization) or being detached from oneself (depersonalization)
fear of losing control or going crazy
fear of dying
numbness or tingling sensations (paresthesias)
chills or hot flashes
The presence of fewer than four of the above symptoms may be considered a limited-symptom panic attack.
Does Having a Panic Attack Mean I Have Panic Disorder?
It is important to note that many people may experience a panic attack once, or even a few times during their lives. In order for a diagnosis of panic disorder to be made, one must experience recurring panic attacks that are not caused by the effects of drugs, alcohol or another medical pr psychological condition. It is possible to have a few isolated panic attacks without chronic recurrence. But, since panic-like symptoms may mimic many other medical and psychological disorders, it is important to review your symptoms with your doctor.
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