Panic Attack Symptom

Panic attacks can occur at any time and any place but not with any person. Those that have these panic attack symptoms suffer from panic disorder. This condition is experienced by over 2 million people in the U.S. and many go undiagnosed and untreated as they are unaware that treatment is available.

Usually panic attacks are short an are exaggerated responses to a fearful situations. Many times the person thinks they are experiencing a heart attack and difficulty breathing. They can be triggered by a memory of an incident in the past that was fearful. Sometimes they can come out of the blue in a crowded place. Some people have panic attack symptoms just from leaving the safety and security of their house.

The symptoms of a panic attack include difficulty breathing, pounding heart, and pains in the chest. Some panic symptoms in severe cases can be chills, sweating, and numbness in the extremeties. These don't usually last very long but it can seme an eternity to those that are having it.

People that have one panic attack usually have more later down the road and can usually sense when one is about to occur. Without proper treatment they can suffer their entire life, not knowing that treatment is available. Some doctors believe that it can run in families.

Panic symptoms are not the only issue for these people. In some cases they lead to severe depression and in rare cases,suicide. Alcohol and drug dependency are also a result of untreated panic attack disorder.

Treatment can include drugs, psychotherapy, and even hypnosis has been used. Sedatives and antidepressants can treat the side effects such as depression and sleeping problems. More and more people are becoming aware of panic symptoms and seeking help. Panic attacks can be a thing of the past with the proper help.