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People who are highly anxious and experience sudden Panic Attacks may experience chest pain, a racing heart, dizziness, choking, feelings of unreality, trembling or fear of losing control. Many people believe they are having a heart attack, are going insane, or about to die.
Sinking Ship
To get a better understanding of this experience, imagine being trapped in a stateroom on a sinking ocean liner. The room is filling up with ocean water. You are near an air pocket at the ceiling and gasping for air thinking you are about to die. That is how panic attacks feel.
Genetics or Stress?
The cause of panic attacks is unknown. Some researchers suggest there may be a genetic link. However, some people diagnosed with the disorder do not have other family members with the disorder. Stress may play a role in bringing on the disorder. Many people first experience attacks while going through intensely stressful periods, such as the death of a family member, divorce, job loss or some major disappointment in their normal life.
About 6 million adults in the United States have a panic disorder. Anyone can develop the disorder. However, it is more common in women than men.
This report is not a diagnosis. We hope this information can guide you toward improving your life.
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