What are the Symptoms of Panic Attacks and Anxiety?
October 3, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Panic attacks and anxiety are related conditions that can cause a range of distressing symptoms. Here are the common symptoms associated with panic attacks and anxiety:
Panic Attacks: Panic attacks are intense episodes of fear or discomfort that can come on suddenly and reach their peak within minutes. Symptoms of a panic attack may include:
- Sudden Intense Fear or Anxiety:
- A sudden and overwhelming sense of fear, dread, or anxiety without an obvious cause.
- Rapid Heartbeat (Tachycardia):
- Feeling your heart racing or pounding, palpitations, or a sensation of a rapid or irregular heartbeat.
- Shortness of Breath or Hyperventilation:
- Difficulty catching your breath or a feeling of suffocation.
- Chest Pain or Discomfort:
- Chest tightness, pain, or discomfort, often mistaken for a heart attack.
- Sweating and Shaking:
- Profuse sweating, trembling, or shaking.
- Feeling of Choking or Smothering:
- Sensation of choking or being smothered.
- Nausea or Abdominal Discomfort:
- Feeling nauseous, stomachache, or other gastrointestinal distress.
- Feeling Dizzy, Lightheaded, or Faint:
- Feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or as if you might pass out.
- Numbness or Tingling:
- Numbness or tingling sensations, often in the extremities.
- Hot or Cold Flashes:
- Sudden onset of feeling extremely hot or cold.
- Fear of Losing Control or Going Crazy:
- A fear of losing control, going crazy, or dying during the panic attack.
- Derealization or Depersonalization:
- Feeling detached from oneself or the surroundings, experiencing an altered sense of reality.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): GAD involves excessive and persistent worry or anxiety about various aspects of life. Common symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder may include:
- Excessive Worrying:
- Constant or excessive worry about everyday activities or events.
- Restlessness or Feeling On Edge:
- Feeling restless, irritable, or easily fatigued.
- Muscle Tension:
- Muscle tension, aches, or soreness, especially in the neck, shoulders, or back.
- Difficulty Concentrating:
- Trouble focusing or feeling like the mind is going blank.
- Irritability:
- Increased irritability, often leading to frustration or a short temper.
- Sleep Disturbances:
- Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or having restless, unsatisfying sleep.
- Physical Symptoms:
- Other physical symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches, or gastrointestinal discomfort.
These symptoms can vary in intensity and duration. If you experience any of these symptoms and they interfere with your daily life, it’s essential to consult a mental health professional for evaluation, diagnosis, and appropriate management. Treatment options may include therapy, medication, stress management techniques, and lifestyle changes.