There are clinical descriptions of panic attacks dating all the way back to the 18th century. Since then, studies have been done, and our understanding of panic attacks and anxiety has greatly increased. The DSM-5-TR (the classification of mental disorders used by mental health professionals in the United States) has even classified panic disorder as an anxiety disorder.
If you’re wondering if you might suffer from panic attacks, it is important to be able to spot the signs. So, keep reading to find out more about some of the signs of a panic attack you shouldn’t ignore.
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Chest Pains
Chest pains should never be taken lightly, no matter the root cause. Panic attacks or anxiety can sometimes cause your muscles to restrict and give you the feeling of having a heart attack. The key to chest pains during a panic attack is to see if it comes and goes.
Chest pain should only last while you’re experiencing a panic attack; it should quickly fade once you’ve calmed the attack. An experienced therapist will be able to help teach you some techniques to help calm the attacks faster.
Difficulty Breathing
If you’ve ever had difficulty breathing, you understand how terrifying the feeling can be, especially if it suddenly appears. During a panic attack, most people tend to hyperventilate, and it can be incredibly difficult to tell the difference between shortness of breath and hyperventilating.
You’ve probably heard of the old trick of breathing into a bag. Well, the trick helps you put some oxygen you lost back into your body.
It’s important to take note of this symptom because it can be an indication of other sicknesses.
Dizzy Spells
It’s easy to feel alarmed if you suddenly feel dizzy. While there are many things that can cause dizziness, humans tend to jump to the worst conclusion, which in turn makes your anxiety flare up more.
The best way to deal with dizziness due to a panic attack is to sit down with your head between your knees to regain your equilibrium.
Excessive Sweating
Sweat is a normal bodily function, but if you’re stressed or anxious, your body produces more sweat than necessary. It’s your body’s way of trying to cool you down since anxiety and panic attacks can raise your body temperature. This phenomenon is sometimes referred to as a psychogenic fever.
Know How to Manage Your Panic Attack Symptoms
Identifying the signs of a panic attack is the first step in learning to manage them. Once you understand how these signs present themselves, you can stand finding out what triggers them.
With the help of a skilled therapist, you can start working on techniques for calming a panic attack. Relucent Psychology Group can help you start your journey and assist you in treating a panic attack. Feel free to contact Relucent Psychology to schedule a free consultation for anxiety therapy today.
