What Harm Can Panic Attacks Do To Me?

By: Syed Huss Click author's name for more of his/her articles

Do you want to know what are panic attacks like? If you want to know what are panic attacks like, then read on below ...

First of all, panic attacks come without warning. They can occur at anytime and anyplace. Usually they occur without any reason at all. Panic attacks are periods of intense anxiety, fear and discomfort. Normally, you will get a lot of sweat and have rapid heartbeat during panic attacks.

The confusing thing for many people is the cause of such attacks. Usually it occurs without any trigger or logical reason. The onset of panic attacks may be totally abrupt.

Panic attack disorder strikes suddenly to people who are just doing their routine work. It could be in a totally safe setting where there is no apparent danger. Like, someone could be walking with a friend and all of a sudden get a panic attack.

The symptoms of panic attacks and heart attacks are very similar to each other. This can be totally unsettling to many people causing them to worry about their heart. People may initially think that they are having a heart attack. They may rush to see the doctor once panic attack subsides.

Such kind of confusion is very common. Panic attacks can be easily mistaken for heart attacks as both share very similar symptoms. But, don't be alarmed.The good thing is that panic attacks are not dangerous and you may not die from such an attack.

Fortunately, it only feels dangerous whereas in reality, the attack is not so harmful for you as it may seem. First and foremost, it is better to get your heart checked by a qualified doctor in order to rule out heart related ailment. Once heart problem is ruled out and it is confirmed that you are suffering from just panic attacks, you can atleast feel comfortable that it is not a fatal disease.

So, this should be your very first step - confirming that your heart is in good condition. This does not mean that you should not treat panic attacks. To be on the safer side, try to get it cured as early as possble before it ruins your life further.

However, till the time you are completely cured of panic attacks, remind yourself constantly that this is not a dangerous disease and you are unlikely to die from panic attacks. Such kind of assurance is important in order to feel peaceful while you are undergoing treatment.

Remaining calm during panic attacks is surely difficult, but you have to do it. The more calm you can remain during a panic attack the better it is for you. If you can relax and start deep breathing, then much of the panic attack intensity can be reduced.

When people get a panic attack, they will usually develop fear of another attack happening. They will try to avoid places where the previous attack took place. You should try not to do such a thing. You should try and get rid of the fear of panic disorder. If you can overcome your fear, half the battle will be won.

There are many behavorial and cognitive therapies. It is recommended to try such therapies which can help you in overcoming panic attacks and leading a normal, healthy life again. It is recommended to try only drug-free therapies as drugs can cause many harmful side effects.

Since panic and anxiety are related to behavior and mental toughness, cognitive and behavior therapy might be the best bet for overcoming this problem. Medication might provide just temporary relief but can cause a lot of side effects which stay with you even when you discontinue taking the medication. That is why try to go for drug-free treatments for panic attacks.