Experts do not know exactly what causes panic attacks. When our body perceives danger, it reacts by either preparing to run away or dealing with the situation. This is called the “flee or flight” response. When this happens we get a burst of energy, our heart rate increases and we breathe heavily. A panic attack occurs when this situation is triggered when there is no real danger. Many people feel helpless when it comes to panic attacks but you can be successful in stopping panic attacks.
A panic attacks creates many of the symptoms of a heart attacks. You can have chest pain or tightness in the chest, a fast heartbeat and labored breathing. Many first timers end up in the emergency room thinking they are about to die. Besides those symptoms, a panic attack sufferer has an intense feeling of terror or fear.
A panic attacks usually starts with an overwhelming feeling of dread. Out of nowhere you start to feel fear. You could be driving your car, eating a meal or even sound asleep.
There is evidence that panic attacks can run in the family. You could be more susceptible than others because someone in your family suffered from anxiety disorder, depression or bipolar disorder. Stopping panic attacks is possible, you do not have to continue to suffer.
Major life events and physical illness can bring on panic attacks. There are also medicines that can trigger something in your brain and cause a panic attack. After your first panic attack, you live in fear of another. Usually it happens because you are so worried about having another attack that you bring one on. Get some help in stopping panic attacks and reduce the fear.
Some other possible causes of panic attacks are:
- Depression
- Alcohol or other drug abuse
- Too much nicotine or caffeine
Even though it’s not known what causes panic attacks, there are things you can do to handle the attack once it starts. Remember that people don’t die from panic attacks. It may seem like you are but it is all an ill-perceived threat. Breath deeply and think about something calming. Do whatever you can to get through those 10 to 20 minutes of terror. Read on to find out how to stop a panic attacks before it starts.
Most people believe that stress is what causes panic attacks. Stopping panic attacks is possible if you find out what is stressing you out and start working on that. You may not think that you are stressed. Do some internal thinking and talk to your doctor about lowering your stress. Find ways to eliminate what is going on in your life that might be creating stressful situations.
If you let them, panic attacks can interrupt your normal daily routines. Learning to overcome the feelings that trigger the attack will help in stopping panic attacks for good.
